Foundation programs teach the basic knowledge and skills needed for entry into one or more trades and may count as credit toward an apprenticeship. They are typically taught in a classroom and in-school shop setting.
You do not need to have a sponsor to register in a foundation program. In fact, completing a foundation program can help you gain some experience and familiarity with a trade, making it easier for you to find a sponsor for your apprenticeship.
How to Register for a Foundation Program
Take a look through our trade programs to discover which trade is right for you. Review your trade’s Program Profile to determine if a foundation program is available.
Register for your foundation program with a SkilledTradesBC-designated training provider. Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC provide helpful search tools to find where your program is being offered across the province.
You may also be interested in checking out programs for underrepresented groups, including foundation programs for women and Indigenous peoples.
Once you have registered into a foundation program, get a SkilledTradesBC ID by signing up with the SkilledTradesBC Portal.
This will allow you to track your trades training progress, including your exam marks and program credits.
Once you’ve signed up and receive a SkilledTradesBC ID, provide this number to your training provider who will ensure your foundation program information is reflected on your account.
Foundation programs were previously called Entry Level Trades Training (ELTT) programs. They cover material related to one or more apprenticeship programs and generally also provide credit towards completion of an apprenticeship.
For example, if you complete the Piping foundation program, you will receive credit for level 1 technical training and 375 work-based training hours when you register as an apprentice in either the Plumber, Steamfitter/Pipefitter or Sprinkler System Installer programs.