Scientific Technologies (Lab Skills)

FA (Foundation Apprenticeship) - North East Scotland College

Course overview

Combining work-based and classroom-based learning to prepare you for a career in a science-based industry.

Course description

The Life Sciences and the Related Science Industries are high-tech, innovative and highly diverse, spanning pharmaceuticals, medical technology, biotechnology, and industrial biotechnology and have applications across many other sectors. People with STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) qualifications are in high demand from employers resulting in great prospects for career development and progression.

The Foundation Apprenticeship in Scientific Technologies is for senior phase pupils and is typically delivered over S5 and S6, allowing pupils to develop the skills and knowledge to work towards an SVQ at SCQF Level 6 and build a career in the science-based industries.

What you will experience

During the Foundation Apprenticeship you will work towards an NPA in Scientific Technologies at SCQF Level 6 (the same level as a Higher). You will also undertake work-based learning during which you will attend an extended work experience with an industry partner equivalent to a day a week. During that time you will develop essential skills for the workplace as you work towards units from the SVQ in Laboratory and Associated Technical Activities (Industrial Science).

Units of study through the FA include:

Laboratory Safety
Mathematics for Science
Fundamental Chemistry — An Introduction
Prepare Compounds and Solutions for Scientific or Technical Use
Experimental Procedures: Science
Carry out Simple Scientific Tests Using Manual Equipment

Pupils will be expected to undertake both coursework and work-based learning elements within the same year, generally spending the equivalent of a day a week in a College staff delivered class and a day a week on placement. We recommend that applicants only study 3 additional school-based courses alongside the Foundation Apprenticeship.

Entry requirements

This programme is suitable for students who are capable of working at SCQF Level 6 (equivalent to Highers) and who have a strong interest in Science. The two-year course is suitable for pupils who or are working towards grade A or B passes at National 5 in Chemistry and Maths and who will be studying Higher Sciences. The one year programme is suitable for pupils who have already achieved grade A or B passes at National 5 in Chemistry and Maths, who have achieved or who will be studying Higher Sciences alongside the award.

Progression

Whether you wish to progress in your studies or enter the world of work, North East Scotland College has excellent progression opportunities, with links to several universities across Scotland and strong relationships with industry employers.

Explore progression opportunities at Apprenticeships.Scot

Education at NESCol:

Upon successful completion of this course, you may be able to progress to one of the following full-time courses at North East Scotland College:

University

Foundation Apprenticeships are accepted as equivalent to at least one Higher by all Scottish Universities. Further qualifications may be required for University entry — applicants should check individual course entry requirements for further information.

Employment:

Upon completion of a Foundation Apprenticeship, you may gain advanced entry onto an associated Modern Apprenticeship.