Traineeship

A traineeship is a structured program that combines paid work with formal training to develop occupation-specific skills and a recognized qualification. Traineeships are designed to provide practical experience while ensuring learners meet agreed competency standards. They are typically short to medium length, often lasting six months to two years, and may culminate in a nationally or regionally recognized credential such as a certificate or diploma. Training is usually delivered through a partnership between an employer, a training provider, and sometimes an industry body, with the learner spending portions of time on the job and in classroom or online study.

In many countries the term is used interchangeably with apprenticeships or trainee schemes. In trades and technical fields, an apprenticeship is a common form; in professional sectors, trainee schemes or graduate trainee programs are used to rotate through departments and build broad skills. Programs may be paid, with wages or stipends, and may include mentoring, assessments, and support for entering the labor market.

Eligibility for traineeships varies by country and program. They are often targeted at school leavers or recent graduates, but may be open to career changers or others seeking entry into a particular field. Entry requirements typically include a minimum age, basic literacy or numeracy, and an application or interview process.

Outcomes of completing a traineeship commonly include a recognized qualification and a pathway to permanent employment. Traineeships aim to improve practical competence, employability, and industry connections. Critics note that some schemes offer low wages, limited long-term security, or uneven quality across providers.