A traineeship is a quality work experience placement for 16-24 year olds that helps you get experience, job skills and English and Maths boosters to give your career a real boost. Find out more…
What is a Traineeship?
A traineeship is a skills development programme that includes a work placement. Traineeships help 16 to 24 year olds – or 25 year olds with an education, health and care (EHC) plan to get ready for an apprenticeship or job if they don’t yet have the skills or experience needed. Traineeships can help you to get real work experience, job skills and improve your English and Maths skills, giving your career prospects a real jump-start.
It can last from 6 weeks up to 1 year (although most will last for less than 6 months).
Traineeships are just one route to the future you want. You can get free and impartial advice from the National Careers Service about all your choices.
You can find out more about Traineeships in this Student Activity Pack.
Why do a Traineeship?
Here are some of the benefits:
- Build your CV with valuable work experience. You will learn about the business and the industry it operates in.
- Get work preparation training which can help put you in a better position when applying for an apprenticeship or other employment.
- Boost your ‘work ready’ skills! Traineeships can help to give you the the confidence and skills to take your first step to getting a job.
- Get support with Maths and English skills if needed
- Get an interview at the end of your experience either for a role (if one is available) or an exit interview which will provide feedback to help you secure your next employment.
Is a Traineeship right for you?
Are you motivated, but haven’t had chance to build up your skills and experience? If so, a Traineeship could be right for you.
If you are finding yourself unsuccessful when applying for opportunities and apprenticeships because of your skills and experience then a Traineeship could be a good first step.
What do you need to apply for a Traineeship?
You will need to be:
- Motivated to work
- Unemployed, or working fewer than 16 hours per week and have little work experience
- Aged between 16-24 and qualified below level 3
A traineeship might not be a good fit if you:
- Already have the skills and experience needed to find an opportunity
- Are 25 years old or over
- Are already employed.
Are Traineeships Paid?
Employers may support you with expenses, with travel and lunch costs, for example. There is no requirement for employers to pay, it is a real opportunity to gain meaningful work experience.
You may be able to access financial support depending on your circumstances either from your training provider or your JobCentre. You can check your requirements and gain further information here.
Where to find Traineeships
- Traineeship opportunities can be found on the Find a Traineeship Website.
- Your local college or training provider – contact them to see if they offer Traineeship opportunities
- If you are in receipt of benefits your Jobcentre Plus adviser can help.
Still not sure?
The National Careers Service can support you for free. Visit their website or call free on 0800 100 900.
You can also use the government links below to find out more.
