Building service engineering foundation apprenticeship
Level 2 · IntermediateConstruction and the built environment 0.7 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
The Building Services Engineering Foundation Apprenticeship introduces you to the wide range of engineering disciplines within building services, including plumbing, electrical, heating and ventilation. Apprentices develop core practical skills and explore which specialist pathway suits them before progressing to a full apprenticeship. It is an ideal starting point for a long career in the built environment.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Overview of building services engineering disciplines
Safe working practices on construction sites
Basic use of hand and power tools in engineering
Introduction to plumbing, electrics and HVAC systems
Reading simple engineering drawings and schematics
Communication and teamwork in a technical workplace
Environmental sustainability in building services
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Assist engineers on site with installation tasks
Use hand tools safely under supervision
Identify and name building services components
Observe and support commissioning and testing activities
Keep records of daily work and learning activities
Maintain a clean and safe work area on site
Attend workshops and skills sessions to explore pathways
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 2 (Intermediate) - roughly GCSE level. Often open with few or no formal qualifications - a strong first step. Some employers ask for a couple of GCSEs.
What’s next: Typically leads on to a Level 3 (Advanced) apprenticeship.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
Hear from employers
What it’s really like
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