Foundation Apprenticeships are shaping up to be a game-changer for young people who need a more accessible route into skilled employment.
Foundation Apprenticeships are a new entry-level apprenticeship route launching in England from August 2025. They’re designed to help young people—especially those just leaving school—gain real work experience while developing essential skills in key industries.
Here’s a quick overview of what they offer:
· Duration: Typically 8 months long, shorter than traditional apprenticeships.
· Structure: Combines paid employment with training in employability skills, technical knowledge, and English and maths (if needed).
· Progression: Aimed at helping learners move into full apprenticeships at Level 2 or 3, or directly into employment.
· Industries: Initial focus areas include Construction, Engineering and Manufacturing, Health and Social Care, and Digital—with plans to expand into sectors like hospitality and retail.
· Incentives: Employers can receive up to £2,000 per foundation apprentice to support mentoring and coaching.
· Eligibility: Targeted at young people, especially those who didn’t achieve a grade 4 in GCSE English or maths. They’ll continue studying these subjects during the apprenticeship but won’t be required to sit exams.
They’re part of a broader reform to make apprenticeships more accessible and better aligned with early career pathways. If you’d like to learn more about Foundation Apprenticeships, please register to book your place, and we look forward to seeing you then!
