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Where can I progress |
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after my FA ? |
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How long is my FA ?
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As an FA is a recognised qualification on the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework ( SCQF ), many doors open for further progression in the world of work and study . Fife College will accept successful completion of the Foundation Apprenticeship to progress on to higher level qualifications ( although please note that additional qualifications may be required ).
Let ’ s look at what else is possible :
One option may be to progress from your Level 4 on to the Level 5 and 6 and then on to a Modern Apprentice qualification
You could progress from your FA to a Modern Apprenticeship ( MA ) and , as the FA Level 6 contains some units / topics from the MA qualification , your length of time as a Modern Apprentice may be shorter
You could progress to college or university to study on a full or part-time course . Both colleges and universities will recognise your FA qualification and using this along with your National 5 or Higher certificates you could meet entry requirements into a higher level course . If your FA is at SCQF Level 6 and , depending on the college or university you chose to study at , the FA should be recognised as equivalent to one or two SQA Highers
You could use your FA qualification with the work placement on your CV to enter straight into employment . Remember , gaining an FA in a specific subject does not mean it is only useful in that one employment area . You will gain many transferable skills , and having the work placement is of great value for any job or career path you choose to follow . So think wider and pursue an area you enjoy and are good at !
A Modern Apprenticeship ( MA ) combines training with paid employment at SCQF Levels 5 , 6 and 7 ( up to the same level of learning as a Scottish Advanced Higher )
A Graduate Apprenticeship ( GA ) combines paid employment with learning up to degree level at SCQF Levels 8 , 9 , 10 and 11 ( up to the same level of learning as a Masters Degree )
FAs at level 4 and 5 are planned to be delivered over one year . It normally takes one or two years to complete a Level 6 FA , so it will be part of your study timetable in years S4 or senior phase . Your school timetable will include two half days per week for your FA . At SCQF Level 6 , on some of the frameworks detailed , you may also be expected to undertake part or all of your work placement during school holidays ( e . g . October , Easter or Summer ).
During your FA you will spend time doing various activities which may include :
Attending classes at your school , another school in Fife , or at a Fife College campus
Attending practical workshops , computer labs , or science labs
Visiting local businesses or organisations for a morning or afternoon
Attending talks or presentations from local employers
Work placement of several days and weeks , particularly in the Level 6 FAs . Some FAs include weekly placements
Having fun whilst learning new and exciting skills and meeting new friends
There is a lot of time committed towards your FA but do remember it will be worth it and the qualification is at the same learning level as a Scottish Higher . It ’ s also recognised by colleges and universities as equivalent to one or two Scottish Highers .
Some of the FA frameworks may be delivered as a one-year course e . g . Business Skills , Construction , Hospitality , Scientific Technologies , Children and Young People , Health and Social Care .
Contact your school or Fife College for more information .