Retail service, supply and administration foundation apprenticeship
Level 2 · IntermediateSales, marketing and procurement 0.7 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
This foundation apprenticeship introduces young people to the world of retail - covering customer service, administration, stock management, and the operational side of retail businesses. It is designed as a first step into employment for those starting out, building confidence and core workplace skills. Completion provides a strong foundation for progression to a level 2 Retailer apprenticeship or other entry-level roles in retail and services.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Basic customer service skills and how to deal with customers helpfully
How retail businesses operate - stock, sales, and store management
Simple administrative tasks such as filing, data entry, and emails
Workplace communication, teamwork, and professional behaviour
Health and safety basics in a retail or warehouse environment
Digital tools used in retail administration and stock systems
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Assist customers on the shop floor or in a customer service role
Help with stock replenishment, tidying, and checking deliveries
Complete basic administrative tasks for the store or business team
Use digital systems to log stock information or customer records
Follow health and safety procedures in the workplace
Work as part of a team to keep the store running smoothly
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
No employer videos yet for this apprenticeship. Employers offering it can add one to show young people what the role is really like.