Foundation Apprenticeships: A Launchpad for Young Talent
Foundation Apprenticeships offer employed positions for young individuals, aged 16-21, or up to 25 for those with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), care leavers, or prison leavers.
Apprentices develop:
- Employability skills and professional behaviours.
- Technical knowledge and practical expertise.
- Essential English and maths development.
It typically lasts 8 – 12 months, combining real-world workplace experience with structured off-the-job learning. This not only helps apprentices grow in competence but also gives clarity and confidence about their future career direction.
Apprentices that haven’t yet achieved a grade 4 or above in English and maths, will need to study these subjects as part of their apprenticeship but they won’t be required to pass these qualifications to complete their apprenticeship.
AI in Action
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping the world of software and data, and apprentices will gain practical insight into how to use it effectively within their role. During the programme, learners will:
- Harness the power of AI to work smarter and more efficiently.
- Use AI to clean, organise, and validate data.
- Explore how AI identifies patterns and automates tasks like sorting, tagging, and categorising information.
- Apply AI-assisted coding tools to suggest code, detect bugs, and support application testing.
- Get hands-on experience with beginner-friendly AI tools that simplify everyday tasks.
These skills provide a strong foundation in smart technologies, preparing apprentices for the future of digital work.
Benefits for Employers
For employers, Foundation Apprenticeships provide a unique opportunity to shape early talent.
Employers will benefit from:
- Remote Delivery Option: Flexible delivery models mean apprenticeships can be tailored to suit your operational needs, including remote learning and support.
- Early Access to Emerging Talent: Observe potential recruits in action.
- Inclusive Recruitment: Accessing a broader, more diverse pool of young learners.
- Financial Incentives: Receive up to £2,000 per apprentice under DfE Apprenticeship Funding Rules 25/26 (subject to retention and progression).
What Apprentices Achieve
Upon completion of the programme, apprentices will have achieved the full set of skills, knowledge, and behaviours outlined in the standard.
Typical progression routes include:
- Direct entry into employment.
- Advancement to Level 2 or Level 3 apprenticeships.
Software and Data Operative: Apprenticeship Overview
Software and Data Operatives are employed in large and small organisations within the public, private and voluntary sectors.
Their role typically involves:
- Collecting, formatting, and storing data.
- Validating data and identifying errors.
- Supporting software development and testing under supervision.
- Handling the storage, retrieval, sharing, and basic manipulation of data.
These contributions are foundational to the digital functions of the organisation.
Duration & Delivery
- Duration: 8-12 months.
- Off-the-Job Learning: Minimum of 187 hours.
- Outcome: Certification of full competency in the specified knowledge, skills, and behaviours.
Upon completion, learners can progress on to a higher level IT apprenticeship with support from Achievement Training.
Updated Apprenticeship Assessment Plans
The new apprenticeship assessment approach for Foundation Apprenticeships streamlines the process, ensuring apprentices are evaluated fairly and efficiently.
- On-Programme Assessment: Apprentices are assessed throughout their training, rather than waiting for a final exam.
- Smaller End-Point Assessment (EPA): A focused evaluation ensures apprentices demonstrate essential skills without unnecessary duplication.
- Training Provider Involvement: Providers play a bigger role in assessments, reducing reliance on external assessors.
- Employer-Led Behaviour Assessment: Employers confirm apprentices meet professional behaviour standards, simplifying the assessment process.
These improvements make apprenticeships more flexible, practical, and employer-friendly, helping businesses develop skilled talent efficiently.
Foundation apprenticeships are available for young people aged 16 to 21, and up to 25 for those with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), are a care leaver, or a prisoner/prison leaver.
Apprentices that haven’t yet achieved a grade 4 or above in English and maths, will need to study these subjects as part of their apprenticeship but they won’t be required to pass these qualifications to complete their apprenticeship.
Maximum funding: Up to £4000
Please follow the link for more information on Apprenticeship Funding for Employers
Please feel free to call regarding any queries about funding on 01752 202264 or email admissions@achievementtraining.com
The enrolment forms below, need to be completed by both you as the employer and the apprentice. This will then allow us to gather the essential information needed to set up the apprenticeship.
Apprenticeship Enrolment Form (Employer) – Part 1
Apprenticeship Enrolment Form (Apprentice) – Part 2
What Happens After Enrolment?
Once both forms have been completed, the following will take place:
- A tutor will be in touch to create a training plan for the new role.
- An appointment will be arranged during the first few weeks of employment.
- During this appointment, the tutor will review the course content with you and explain the delivery model and answer any questions.