Tanonc

Tanonc is the Hungarian term for an apprentice—someone who is learning a craft or trade under the supervision of a master craftsman or experienced professional. The role centers on on-the-job practice combined with instruction, with progress guided by a mentor or employer.

The arrangement typically involves a formal or informal agreement, a wage or stipend, and a training plan. A tanonc performs tasks under supervision while gradually taking on more responsibility. The duration varies by trade, commonly spanning one to several years. Training often blends hands-on work with classroom instruction as part of Hungary’s vocational education system.

Historically, tanoncs were integral to guilds and artisanal industries, where apprentices learned crafts through structured systems of mentorship and graded progression. In contemporary Hungary, the term remains in use especially in trades and crafts, where many apprentices participate in vocational programs and pursue a recognized qualification upon completion. Further steps can lead to higher credentials, including the status of skilled worker and, with additional training and examinations, master craftsman.

The concept of the tanonc is akin to apprenticeship practices in other countries and forms part of broader discussions about vocational education and workforce development.