When considering options for advanced education, common examples include university, Post Leaving Certificate (PLC) courses, and apprenticeships. However, there’s another lesser-known avenue available – the traineeship.
So, what’s a traineeship?
Traineeships integrate classroom-based learning with practical workplace experience, aiming to enhance job prospects for attendees and boost sectoral retention rates.
In this scheme, collaborating employers, in partnership with Education and Training Boards (ETBs), offer practical learning experiences through current and upcoming programmes. These partners strive to pinpoint technical deficiencies across various industries.
Currently, more than 75 diverse programmes are accessible nationwide, and fresh traineeships are being developed on an ongoing basis.
However, not all traineeships are available unilaterally at all times; and the structure, qualification, and duration of the traineeships may vary. Detailed information on specific available programmes in a particular area can be sought from local ETBs.
It’s recommended that prospective trainees verify that the traineeship they select aligns with their professional aspirations.
How is it implemented?
A minimum of 30 per cent of the course will be work-based learning. The courses are structured for versatile delivery, i.e., they can be carried out online, through in-person instruction, or hybrid learning.
Of the three main advanced education choices provided by Solas, the State entity in charge of advanced education and training, traineeships are the most work-related.
Traineeship attendees acquire transferable competencies, usually thought of as skills not particular to a specific job, task, discipline, or knowledge field. These skills can be applied in a myriad of situations and workplaces, such as organisational competencies.
They also gain technical capabilities, which are the knowledge or skill sets required to undertake specific tasks.
For instance, for someone with a passion for baking, a traineeship in this area would offer both theoretical grounding and real experience required for a role in this industry.
Who oversees apprenticeships and where can I enrol in one?
As previously stated, apprenticeships in Ireland are managed by ETBs (Education and Training Boards), which collaborate with local business and industry professionals. Across the country, there are 16 main ETBs laden with subsidiary offices based within their respective constituencies. Furthermore, there are numerous local course providers such as Further Education and Training (FET) centres, colleges for continuing education, and community colleges among others.
To illustrate, in Tipperary, the main ETB centre is situated in Nenagh, with a branch office located in Clonmel. The county has 13 principal centres where interested parties can sign up for their apprenticeship. The dispersion of these locations makes apprenticeships accessible for those who may face transportation challenges or reside in places with less efficient public transportation. Therefore, pretty much anyone with an interest can pursue an apprenticeship.
What certification will I receive?
Upon completion of an apprenticeship, participants are awarded an NFQ Level 4 to 6 qualification or its equivalent, depending on the specific apprenticeship completed. These individuals can then continue working in their trained field of expertise. Alternatively, they could decide to further enhance their education by undertaking a course post their leaving cert or gaining a university degree.
Does it require any fees?
The uplifting news is that apprenticeships are cost-free for participants. The programme is jointly-funded by the Irish Government and the European Social Fund under its Employability, Inclusion and Learning Programmes fund.
What are the advantages of undertaking an apprenticeship?
It is commonly believed that one’s investment determines the return, and an apprenticeship provides immense benefits to those who seize the opportunity with dedication. On-the-job learning, provided by apprenticeships, proves to be of great advantage to individuals at the start of their professional journey. An apprenticeship aims at thoroughly preparing its trainees to successfully transition into the workforce. A survey conducted by Solas reported 61 per cent of the graduates from the 2016 batch, who responded to the survey nine months post their programme completion, acknowledged they were gainfully employed.
What options for traineeships exist?
The wonderful thing about traineeships is that they span across a wide array of sectors and job types. These encompass fields such as gardening, building, caregiving and the service industry, among numerous others.
There’s an animal care traineeship available, imparting skills and understanding necessary to meet the needs of animals in assorted care settings. The curriculum might entail subjects such as animal anatomy and physiology, animal behaviour, and assisting in veterinary practices. The duration of this traineeship is typically around 43 weeks.
For those interested in the tourism sector, traineeships in local and national tour guiding are on offer. These equip trainees with the expertise and knowledge required to guide tourists through Ireland. Study components may cover Irish national heritage and culture. The duration of this traineeship is approximately 26 weeks.
Further details on accessible courses can be found on fetchcourses.ie. Here, potential trainees have the ability to search by both location and industry.
Is financial aid offered?
Financial assistance, if any, is determined by an individual’s financial standing.
Recipients of benefits such as unemployment benefit, unemployment payment, single-parent family payment, unemployment transitional payment or disability allowance can maintain their benefits whilst partaking in their traineeship.
In cases where individuals do not receive the aforementioned benefits, eligibility for a training allowance or income support during their traineeship may be possible. It is recommended to reach out to the local ETB for further information.
Is remuneration provided during a traineeship?
Unlike apprenticeships, traineeships do not carry pay. However, social welfare support may be accessible, subject to financial circumstances.