Level 2 apprenticeships (Foundation apprenticeships)

What are foundation apprenticeships?

Foundation apprenticeships are designed to help young people take their first step into work. They are new entry-level programmes that mix real employment with structured training, sitting just below a level 3 apprenticeship.

You will be employed, earn a wage, and work towards qualifications that prepare you for the next stage of your career. These apprenticeships have been developed with employers, so the training reflects what businesses genuinely need.

They are a good fit for anyone ready to start their career journey but who would benefit from gaining practical experience before moving into another apprenticeship or full-time role.

Who are foundation apprenticeships for?

Foundation apprenticeships are open to young people aged 16 to 21.
You may also be eligible if you are 22 to 24 and:

• have an Education, Health and Care (EHC) plan,
• have been in the care of your local authority
• are a prison leaver or serving prisoner beginning pre-release training.

They are particularly suited to school leavers who want to go straight into paid work and practical learning, or who would benefit from a supportive route into the workplace.

What you'll learn

Each foundation apprenticeship is built around an occupational standard that sets out the skills, knowledge, and behaviours needed for a particular job. You will gain hands-on experience in your chosen sector and take part in structured learning with your training provider.

Alongside this, you will develop key employability skills such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving, as well as technical knowledge relevant to your role. If you do not already have a qualification in English or maths, your provider will support you to achieve a level 1 or level 2 functional skills qualification during your training.

Foundation apprenticeships are available across a range of industries including business administration, construction, digital, hospitality, and healthcare.

How they work

You will be employed by a company and normally work around 30 hours per week, earning a salary while you train.

Your time will be split between:

• on-the-job learning, where you apply your skills and contribute to real work projects
• off-the-job training, delivered by a college, university, or approved training provider 

Foundation apprenticeships last a minimum of 8 months, with the overall length depending on your employer. You will complete modules, build a portfolio, and take part in progress reviews to support your learning.

Entry requirements

Each foundation apprenticeship sets its own entry requirements. Many employers are more interested in your attitude and potential than in formal qualifications. If you are keen to learn, turn up on time, and show a good work ethic, you will already be off to a strong start.

If you are unsure what you need, check directly with the employer or training provider before applying.

Pay and funding

As a foundation apprentice, you will be paid for your work. Every employer must offer at least the National Minimum Wage for apprentices, though many pay more to attract motivated candidates.

The cost of your training is covered, either through your employer’s apprenticeship service account or through a government co-investment scheme. That means you will not pay any tuition fees.

You will also receive the same employment rights as other staff, including holiday pay and sick pay, and the qualification you gain will not cost you a penny.

Progression and next steps

When you finish your foundation apprenticeship, several routes are open to you. You might stay on with your current employer, move into a new job, or take the next step up to a level 3 advanced apprenticeship.

Some learners go on to study T Levels or other professional qualifications, while some build on the experience they have gained along with other study to apply for a degree-level apprenticeship. However you progress, you will have real experience to draw on and a clearer sense of where you want to go next.