IT: Hardware and System Support
Foundation Apprenticeship
Description
This Foundation Apprenticeship gives pupils skills to prepare for an IT career. It's a great time to start a career in this sector, with jobs such as:
cyber security analyst
IT support technician
security administrator
network manager
As well as the technology sector, they can aim to work in many other areas such as healthcare or financial services.
Examples of course units include:
National Progression Award (NPA)
Security fundamentals
Network fundamentals
Diploma
IT & Telecom System Operation 2
Working with IT & Telecoms Hardware and Equipment 1
Apprenticeship framework(s)
Successful candidates will achieve a Foundation Apprenticeship in IT: Hardware and System Support at SCQF Level 6. This is the same level of learning as an SQA Higher.
SCQF qualification levels explained
Select Level 6 to see the framework document and qualification at that level.
a National Progression Award (NPA) in Professional Computer Fundamentals at SCQF Level 6
5 units of a Diploma for IT & Telecommunications Professionals at SCQF Level 6
a work placement
SCQF qualification levels explained
Download Foundation Apprenticeship - IT: Hardware and System Support SCQF Level 6 framework document
Entry requirements
Pupils don't need formal qualifications for entry. They should have a good level of English and maths and if they've taken a science subject that's an advantage.
Roles in hardware and system support are suitable for pupils with:
good problem-solving skills
an interest in both hardware and software
an ability to work to deadlines and under pressure
The pupil would select a Foundation Apprenticeship as a school subject choice. Then they'd go through a recruitment process arranged by the college, or other learning provider. It's great if you can get involved, too.
Progression and development
Pupils will get the skills, knowledge and competence to help them move on to:
a Modern Apprenticeship in a digital or ICT subject
more vocational training
further study at school or college
These will help them to prepare for working in ICT.
If you're looking to hire, Foundation Apprenticeships help you spot talented pupils. You can assess their skills on a longer term than a regular interview process would allow.
How does it work?
During the apprenticeship, each pupil must complete a work placement of about 1 day a week in S6. That helps them build the evidence needed to complete the units from the SVQ.
It's important that pupils begin employer contact during S5. They'll learn about working for an organisation and using digital skills in the workplace.
Cost and funding
There’s no financial cost to you as an employer because the learner is still at school. But investing your time can bring rewards, with access to talented young people in your workplace.
How long will it take?
It can take 1 year or 2 years. Pupils study a Level 6 Foundation Apprenticeship as one of their school subjects, usually over S5 and/or S6.
What's next
Fill out our contact form and we'll connect you with your local learning provider who can talk to you about working with Foundation Apprenticeships.