If you follow East Lothian Works on Twitter and Facebook (links at the bottom of this post), you may have seen that we are currently running a social media campaign that focuses on a different Foundation Apprenticeship each week. This week, we’re looking at the Social Services and Healthcare course. Have a read below to find out more about this framework.

One in thirteen people employed in Scotland work in Social Services. Social Services and Healthcare Foundation Apprenticeship students get the chance to experience life in this industry. They will have the opportunity to learn about the varied areas covered by social services, such as human development, the protection of vulnerable people, and mental health. The world of social services is a complex, vital part of society. Experience in this field will provide students with the ability to adapt and be flexible, and they will gain strong communication skills as well.

When asked what students get out of having experience in a care home, Fiona, a Social Care Worker, stated: “students get to see first-hand the quality of care that the residents receive and they learn how rewarding the job can be. It is not just about personal hygiene, as a lot of people have the misconception that it is. There is much more to the job to discover”. If you’d like to read the whole interview, check out our ‘Morning at Eskgreen Care Home’ post.

When it comes to key skills, employers in this industry look for people who are patient, good at team work, and have good communication.

Our new cohort of 2019-2020 Foundation Apprenticeship students begin after the summer holidays. Applications for the 2020-2021 cohort open around the New Year. Speak to your guidance teacher for advice and an application form. Email vocationalopps@eastlothian.gov.uk with any questions. If you’d like any more information about Foundation Apprenticeships, check out our blog post on them here.

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