Borders College helps pupils build foundations to future careers

Borders College recently welcomed 27 pupils from various secondary schools across the Scottish Borders to sign up to one of the four Foundation Apprenticeship programmes, starting this August.

As part of the programme, the pupils will undertake a four-week induction programme at College, which includes involvement in a Young Enterprise Scotland project, team-building exercises and the ‘Ready Steady Cook’ kitchen-based class. 

When they return in August, they will commence a two-year course in either Social Services: Children and Young People, Social Services and Healthcare, Accountancy or Business Skills. 

Foundation Apprenticeships (FAs) are an exciting new addition to the range of opportunities available to school pupils in the senior phase of secondary education. Designed as a blend of college, school and work-based learning, they give young people hands-on learning and practical experience in the world of work, enabling them to complete elements of a Modern Apprenticeship while still at school.

Contracts Manager for Borders College Business Development Unit Fiona Turnbull commented:

“We were delighted to welcome the pupils to the Foundation Apprenticeships induction day at Borders College. This programme is an excellent way for senior phase pupils to develop their skills, work towards an industry-recognised qualification and gain workplace experience, and it also helps businesses by providing a new generation of fresh talent. Providing the first step for a young person towards the career of their choice is vital, and we believe the Foundation Apprenticeships programme can help achieve this.”