Lärlingstjänstgöring

Lärlingstjänstgöring, literally “apprentice service period”, is a Swedish system that requires individuals who graduate with an apprenticeship-based education to perform a period of practical service before they can be fully qualified and continue their professional career. The concept is rooted in the 1997 Apprenticeship Act (Lärlingstjänstgöringslagen), which aimed to ensure that newly qualified trainees gain practical experience in the workplace and to create a more seamless transition between education and employment.

Traditionally, the service period lasted twelve months and was compulsory in certain apprenticeship fields such as caregiving, home help, and social work. In recent years, the duration and scope of the service period have been adapted. For example, the policy has shifted from a mandated twelve‑month programme to a more flexible “lärlingetjänstgöring” model, where up to 30 credits may be earned through varied learning activities, including supervised work placements, projects, or electives. The Swedish agency, Arbetsförmedlingen, coordinates these placements and provides guidance to both the trainee and the employing organisation.

Key features of the service period include supervised practical training, a progress report, and a final assessment. The trainee’s employer signs a contract that specifies responsibilities, supervision quality, and evaluation criteria. The aim is to enhance professional competence, strengthen employer‑trainee relationships, and meet market demands. Successful completion of the learning period permits the trainee to register as a professional in the relevant occupational register, enabling them to take on higher responsibility roles. This system is part of Sweden’s broader strategy to improve labour market outcomes for vocational professionals and reduce skill gaps across sectors.