Foundation Health & Social Care

The Health and Social Care Foundation Apprenticeship is designed to help employers introduce young people to careers in health and social care while building practical workplace skills from day one.

This programme gives apprentices valuable experience across a range of health and care settings, combining workplace learning with structured training. It provides an ideal route for employers looking to recruit, develop and retain future care professionals while supporting young people at the beginning of their careers.

Begin Your Application

View Course Details

Overview

KSBs

Meet the Trainers

FAQs

Course Reviews

Begin Your Application

5.0

+ EPA

Apprenticeship Achievement Rate

Course Overview

When I designed this programme, I wanted it to be engaging, practical, and inspiring. The aim was to create an experience that helps learners develop new skills, broaden their knowledge, and gain a real understanding of the health and social care sector. Most importantly, the programme is designed to provide the underpinning knowledge needed to support future career and academic progression, giving learners a strong foundation for whatever path they choose next.”
– Jodie Clark, Apprenticeship Manager

The Health and Social Care Foundation Apprenticeship provides young people with an introduction to careers across the health and social care sector while supporting employers to develop their future workforce. Throughout the programme, learners will gain a real understanding of health and social care, building the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to start a rewarding career in care. Learners will gain hands-on experience in providing high-quality care and support to vulnerable individuals.

As they work through the programme, apprentices will learn about the key areas of health and social care, including person-centred care, safeguarding, mental and physical wellbeing, infection prevention, digital working and promoting healthy lifestyles.

Learners will also develop valuable workplace skills including communication, teamwork, resilience, and professionalism. Combining hands-on experience with structures learning, the programme provides a solid foundation for future careers while supporting them to build knowledge and confidence within the adult social care sector.

8 months + EPA

End point assessment or “EPA” has been created to assess the knowledge, skills and behaviours gained throughout the qualification. EPA is conducted by an external independent body chosen by the employer.

EPA offers the chance to showcase your skills and be awarded a grade that reflects your performance.

While this assessment plan does not define specific assessment methods, it does require:

A knowledge test
A practical assessment

Fully funded through the Apprenticeship Levy or 95% government-funded for eligible employers, with minimal contribution required. Under DfE Apprenticeship funding Rules, the employer qualifies for up to £2,000 per foundation apprentice, subject to eligibility and training

This programme is only available for employers enrolling an employee under 25.

This programme is suitable for employers who want to recruit and support young people into health and social care roles.

It is ideal for employers across settings including:

Residential care homes
Domiciliary care providers
Supported living services
Community care
GP practices
Hospitals
Healthcare providers
Local authority care services

Foundation Apprenticeships are typically aimed at young people aged 16 to 21 who would benefit from additional workplace support while developing the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed for a successful career.

Learners aged 18 who do not have exemptions will still be required to achieve Level 2 Functional Skills.

Learners over 19 will have the option to either opt in or out of Functional Skills training and examinations. For those who choose to opt out, Fareport remains committed to supporting all learners in developing their literacy and numeracy skills by embedding these essential topics within the curriculum and assessments of the apprenticeship.

To be eligible for an Apprenticeship you (or the apprentice) must:

Be living and working in England
Be 16-24 years old
Have the legal right to work in the UK
Have maintained UK residency for the last 3 years
Be employed in a real job; they may be an existing employee or a new hire
Work towards achieving an approved apprenticeship standard or framework
Work at least 30 hours a week
Be able to commit to the apprenticeship and its requirements
Not hold a prior qualification at the same or higher level in the same subject area
Not undertake or benefit from DfE funding during their apprenticeship programme, including Student Loans.
Have apprenticeship training and employment that lasts at least 12 months.

Fareport Training

5.0

Based on 119 reviews

review us on

Knowledge, Skills & Behaviours

Knowledge (K) – The theoretical understanding an apprentice needs to perform their role effectively. This includes industry-specific principles, regulations, and best practices.

K1: Introduction to the health and social care sectors, and how the sectors link together.
K2: Career progression opportunities.
K3: The importance of equality, diversity and inclusion and human rights.
K4: Fundamental principles of a duty of care.
K5: Fundamental principles of adult safeguarding and how to report a safeguarding concern.
K6: Fundamental person centred values to maximise an individual’s independence.
K7: Fundamental mental health, physical health and emotional wellbeing needs that individuals may have.
K8: Fundamental principles of infection prevention and control.
K9: Developments in digital working and professional boundaries when using technology.
K10: Fundamental principles of health promotion and illness prevention to support positive lifestyle choices.
K11: Basic food hygiene and preparation methods.
K12: Common health conditions and routine interventions and knowing when and to whom to escalate for action.
K13: Techniques and sources of support to help develop personal resilience when working in a health or social care setting.
K14: Principles of safe moving and handling of equipment and other objects and assistance of individuals.

More information on the Standard is available here.

Skills (S) – The practical abilities developed through training and hands-on experience. These are the technical and transferable skills required for the job.

S1: Explore career progression opportunities within the health and social care sectors.
S2: Act in the best interest of individuals to ensure they do not come to harm.
S3: Work in partnership with others to help to keep individuals safe.
S4: Support individuals using person centred values.
S5: Adapt your approach when providing care and support to meet the needs of the individual.
S6: Follow infection prevention and control precautions to protect yourself and others in the workplace.
S7: Use digital systems and technology in the workplace.
S8: Support individuals with positive lifestyle choices to promote health and wellbeing.
S9: Apply basic food hygiene and preparation methods.
S10: Develop personal resilience when working in a health or social care setting.
S11: Move and handle equipment or other items safely and assist individuals.

Employability Skills & Behaviours (EB) – The professional attitudes and values expected in the workplace. These include teamwork, adaptability, problem-solving, and ethical responsibility.

EB1: Communicate and share information using verbal, non-verbal, written and digital methods.
EB2: Act in a professional manner including good time keeping and conduct.
EB3: Apply new learning and feedback to everyday practice.
EB4: Complete own work tasks and ask for help when needed.
EB5: Work with colleagues to contribute to team outcomes.
EB6: Seek ways to manage own financial, health and wellbeing needs using available resources.
EB7: Overcome challenges and adapt to changes at work.
EB8: Work in line with health, safety and environmental requirements.

Meet the Trainers

Sarah Pettet

Trainer

Sarah is an experienced apprenticeship trainer and assessor, delivering Business Administration, Associate Project Manager, Customer Service, Team Leading and Management programmes at Levels 2, 3, 4 and 5 across the South East, South West and virtually throughout the UK. She is skilled in delivering Functional Skills support in English, Maths and ICT, while building strong relationships with employers and partner organisations to ensure high quality apprenticeship delivery.

Sarah is passionate about supporting apprentices throughout their learning journey by providing guidance, pastoral care, Mental Health First Aid and wellbeing support. She has experience organising and delivering apprenticeship activity days, supporting learner recruitment and helping employers develop their workforce. A qualified assessor with expertise in Business Administration, Associate Project Management, Customer Service, Team Leading, Direct Training and Support, and Financial Retail, Sarah also holds Internal Quality Assurer (IQA) responsibilities, helping to maintain high standards of assessment and quality assurance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Off-the-job training is a mandatory requirement for all apprenticeships in the UK. It ensures that apprentices develop the Knowledge, Skills, and Behaviours (KSBs) outlined in their apprenticeship standard, beyond their day-to-day work duties.

How Much Off-the-Job Training is Required?
Apprentices must spend the equivalent of 6 hours per week on off-the-job training, which must take place during their normal working hours. This structured learning approach is designed to enhance their professional development and directly relate to their apprenticeship programme.

What Activities Count as Off-the-Job Training?
Off-the-job training can be delivered in various ways, including:
✔ Training sessions with Fareport – workshops, workbooks, online learning, and assignments
✔ Employer-led training – mentoring, job shadowing, and workplace projects
✔ Industry-related learning – attending relevant seminars, courses, or training events

This training can take place at the apprentice’s usual workplace or offsite, but it must always be completed within their normal working hours.

How is Off-the-Job Training Planned?
At Fareport Training, we work closely with employers and apprentices to plan and document off-the-job training within the Training Agreement. This ensures a structured learning journey that aligns with business needs while meeting apprenticeship requirements.

By dedicating time to off-the-job training, apprentices gain valuable knowledge and experience, helping them develop professionally and contribute more effectively to their workplace.

Fareport Training is an Ofsted ‘Good’ work-based training provider, delivering apprenticeships and commercial training to employers aiming to enhance their workforce’s skills and qualifications (indeed.com).

Established in 1981, Fareport has a longstanding reputation for high-quality training across various sectors.

Benefits of Partnering with Fareport:

Enhanced Skills and Productivity: Employers have reported that apprenticeships through Fareport help develop relevant skills, improve productivity, and enhance the quality of products or services.

Comprehensive Support: Fareport collaborates closely with employers to design high-quality teaching sessions tailored to business requirements, ensuring that apprentices gain substantial new knowledge, skills, and behaviors applicable to their roles (files.ofsted.gov.uk).

Employee Development and Retention: By investing in apprenticeships, employers can grow their own talent, leading to improved employee morale and loyalty.

Collaborating with Fareport Training enables organisations to effectively upskill their workforce, fostering growth and maintaining a competitive edge in their respective industries.

Yes, Fareport Training operate across all of England. You can undertake your training at your workplace and live online with our trainers.

An apprenticeship in the UK is a paid position that combines practical on-the-job training with academic learning, leading to nationally recognised qualifications. Typically, apprentices spend around 20% of their working hours on classroom, 1-2-1 or individual learning, while the remainder is dedicated to hands-on work experience. This structure allows individuals to earn a salary while gaining valuable skills and credentials in their chosen field. Apprenticeships are for new employees as well as existing employees.

A career in Health and Social Care offers diverse opportunities and the change to make a meaningful impact. Learners secure roles as care and home workers, nursing auxiliaries, senior care workers, and care managers.

The sector is in high demand, with an estimated need for 500,000 additional workers by 2040, driven by an ageing population and evolving healthcare needs.
Health and Social Care is a rewarding and growing field, providing fulfilling career paths for those passionate about supporting others.

No, you are only eligible to study our courses if you are living or working in England and meet all our eligibility criteria.

As of November 2025, the UK apprentice minimum wage is £7.55 per hour for apprentices under 19 or in their first year.

Apprentices are entitled to the apprentice rate if they’re either:

Aged under 19
Aged 19 or over and in the first year of their apprenticeship

Apprentices are entitled to the minimum wage for their age if they both aged 19 or over and have completed the first year of their apprenticeship.

Apprenticeships in the UK offer a multitude of benefits for both individuals and employers.

For Individuals:
Earning While Learning: Apprentices receive a salary during their training, allowing them to gain work experience without incurring student debt (Moneyhelper).
Nationally Recognised Qualifications: Completing an apprenticeship provides credentials that are respected across industries, enhancing employability (MKCollege.ac.uk).
Practical Experience: Apprentices develop hands-on skills in real-world settings, making them valuable assets to employers (Apprenticeships.gov.uk).
Career Advancement: Many apprentices secure permanent positions post-training, with opportunities for further education and career progression (MKCollege.ac.uk).

For Employers:
Cost-Effective Recruitment: Apprenticeships can reduce hiring expenses by developing talent internally (FDMGroup.com).
Enhanced Employee Retention: Investing in apprenticeships often leads to higher staff loyalty and job satisfaction (Apprenticeships.gov.uk).
Addressing Skill Shortages: Tailored training ensures employees possess skills aligned with business needs (FDMGroup.com).
Diversity and Inclusion: Apprenticeships promote a varied workforce, enriching company culture and perspectives (Apprenticeships.gov.uk).

Overall, apprenticeships serve as a strategic approach to workforce development, benefiting both the apprentice and the employer.

Why Learn with Fareport Training?

Established in 1983, we’ve been helping people & businesses grow for over 40 years.

40+ Years’ Experience

Ranked in the top 25% of training providers inspected in England by Ofsted. Trusted by employers, councils & learners alike for over 40 years.

Expert Trainers

Our trainers are highly experienced professionals who bring real subject-based knowledge & skills to every session.

Career Support

We don’t just train you – with some of our courses we help you find work with CV support, interview coaching, and employer connections.

Course Reviews

No Limits has worked with Fareport for years, and our relationship runs smoothly. They respond quickly to correspondence, and paperwork for enrolling new apprentices is always timely.

Fareport Training is responsive, supportive, and communicative, guiding our employees to success. Their flexibility, consistent coaching, and regular updates to managers set them apart. I highly recommend Fareport to all employers.

Fareport has been amazing, and all apprentices are happy with their programme. Without the support from Fareport trainers and Jodie, we wouldn’t have reached 50th place in the Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers. Thank you from The YOU Trust.

Begin Your Application

Enquire Today!

Please send us your details by completing this short form below and our team will be in touch to answer any questions and advise you of the next steps.