The school pupils gained industry-recognised qualifications across all skills frameworks involved in the Foundation Apprenticeship programme which includes the STEM subjects, ICT, Business, Creative Industries and Healthcare sectors.  The programme forms part of their senior phase subject choices and allows them to attend college whilst still attending school.

Employers of all sizes based in the area, such as McTaggarts, Scottish Enterprise, Dell, DF Concerts and NHS, offer Foundation Apprentices the chance to gain valuable work experience and skills within their company as an integral part of gaining their Foundation Apprenticeship qualification.

Jamie Hepburn MSP, Minister for Business, Fair Work and Skills was invited along to deliver the keynote speech to a packed venue which included the pupils, families and employers as well as representatives from the consortium partners.  Chair of Glasgow Colleges’ Regional Board, Janie McCusker, helped to present certificates to the successful students in front of their proud friends and families.

As part of the celebration event, a Q and A session was held with a panel where schools, employers and apprentices old and new were happy to answer questions from the audience.  It was a lively session and the Minister had the opportunity to meet the students who were delighted to have the chance to chat with him.

This year, the Consortium is offering 583 Foundation Apprenticeship opportunities across thirteen frameworks.

Pupils are still able to select these Foundation Apprenticeships and should contact their guidance teacher or school careers adviser if they would like to know more.

Janie McCusker, Chair of Glasgow Colleges’ Regional Board, said;

"Our three regional colleges, Glasgow Kelvin, Clyde and City of Glasgow, are working together to deliver Foundation Apprenticeships and are leading the way in closing the gap between the classroom and the workplace.

These apprenticeships give young people exposure to the world of work, which helps them to develop valuable skills, knowledge and experience.

We want to congratulate all of the pupils who have completed their Foundation Apprenticeships and are pleased to celebrate their achievements."

Jamie Hepburn MSP, Minister for Business, Fair Work and Skills, added;

“I was delighted to attend the Glasgow Foundation Apprenticeship Celebration event to meet with Scotland’s Foundation Apprentices, and I welcomed hearing first-hand about how the apprenticeship is helping to equip more young people at school with industry recognised qualifications. The practical experience and skills they learn will help them to meet industry demands, both now and in the future.

Young people completing Foundation Apprenticeships today are the skilled workforce of tomorrow.  Not only do Foundation Apprenticeships foster stronger links between employers and education, they also give local employers the opportunity to play a more active role in developing the young workforce and shape the next generation of talent.

The Scottish Government will continue to work closely with Skills Development Scotland going forward, to maximise the uptake of the 5,000 opportunities now available for 2019.”

Graeme Hendry, SDS National Manager, Development and Delivery of Foundation and Graduate Apprenticeships said:

“Foundation Apprenticeships open up more career pathways and opportunities for young people, giving them the qualifications to move on to a job such as a Modern or Graduate Apprenticeship or apply for college or university.

Not only do Foundation Apprenticeships give young people a head start with experience in their chosen sector, they provide vital skills needed for the workplace such as communication, team working and self-management.”

Find out more about Foundation Apprenticeships and apply for one at www.apprenticeships.scot/fa