I’m nearly finished school and I want to learn a trade. What are my options? You could consider doing an apprenticeship. An apprenticeship programme combines on-the-job training with an employer, with off-the-job training in an education centre. You can do an apprenticeship in a traditional craft, such as carpentry, plumbing, motor mechanics and electrical apprenticeships. Or, in areas such as accounting or Information and Communications Technology (ICT). You can start from age 16 to 18, depending on the programme. There is no upper age limit and your apprenticeship can last between two to four years.

Do I qualify? To be eligible, you must be at least 16 years old and have a minimum of grade D in five subjects in the Junior Cycle or equivalent. Some employers may have additional requirements. If you don’t have these qualifications, you can still register as an apprentice if you either complete an approved preparatory training course and interview, or are 18 or over and have three years of relevant work experience. You will be asked to pass a colour-vision test for some apprenticeships.

How do I apply? You can find apprenticeship jobs on apprenticeship.ie and apply directly to the employer before the closing date. You can also ask an employer if they will take you on as an apprentice. All employers must be approved by SOLAS before they can hire an apprentice. Employers and apprentices must sign a formal contract agreeing they will meet certain conditions and that the employer will pay you for the length of the apprenticeship. If you’re interested in a craft apprenticeship, you can also contact the Apprenticeship Section of your local Education and Training Board (ETB).

Do I get paid? Yes. The amount you get paid can vary depending on the type of apprenticeship and the industry you choose. If your apprenticeship was developed before 2016, your employer pays you a recommended apprenticeship wage. While you’re training off-the-job, the ETB pays you an allowance. In some cases, you may get a contribution for your travel and accommodation costs from the ETB. If your apprenticeship was developed after 2016, your employer pays you for the duration of your apprenticeship. You agree the rate of pay with your employer.

Do apprentices have to pay fees? Generally, an apprentice does not pay fees. However, apprentices pay a pro-rata registration fee (student contribution) if their off-the-job training takes place within a college such as an Institute of Technology or Technological University. The registration fee is generally based on the amount of time the apprentice spends in the college. You can find information about the pro-rata registration fee on apprenticeship.ie. Apprentices are not eligible for the student grant.