What is an Apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a programme of structured education and training which formally combines and alternates learning in the workplace with learning in an education or training centre.
It is a combination of on the job employer based training and off the job training in an education setting
Become an Apprenticeship Employer
To employ apprentices you need to be approved as a national apprenticeship employer.
An apprenticeship employer you need to demonstrate that you can provide quality, relevant on-the-job apprentice training in a particular programme/industry area.
The approval process can be completed online.
New Generation Apprenticeships
New Generation Apprenticeships (established post 2016), are comprised of newly validated apprenticeships focusing on non-traditional craft occupations. These encompass the industry sectors of ICT, Hospitality & Food, Finance, Engineering, Logistics & Services, Auctioneering, Biopharma and many more sectors.
New generation apprenticeships have a range of structures and delivery modes with qualifications that range from Level 5 – 10 on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ).
Traineeship
Traineeships are short, structured training programmes which combine learning in an education and training setting as well as learning in the workplace in partnership with employers. A Traineeship can provide you with an opportunity to develop cutting-edge skills and on-the-job knowledge, enhancing your career options and improving your employability.
Standard Based (Craft) Apprenticeships
Standard Based (Craft) Apprenticeships are the Traditional Apprenticeships (established pre-2016) encompassing the 5 industry sectors of Construction, Electrical, Engineering, Motor and Print.
These apprenticeships are a dual system incorporating a blended combination of on-the-job employer-based training and off-the-job training in an education or training centre consisting of 7 Phases in a 4-year structure.
- Phases 1, 3, 5 and 7 are completed on-the-job with the employer.
- Phase 2 is completed in an Education and Training Board (ETB) Training Centre
- Phases 4 and 6 are completed in a Technological University (TU). GRETB deliver some of the off-the-job Phase 2 apprenticeships in our training centre in Galway.
Entry Requirements:
- Gain employment with an approved employer.
- Educational and age criteria vary depending on the apprenticeship. Check www.apprenticeship.ie for entry requirements.
- A pre-screening process occurs in some apprenticeship programmes. Applicants should please liaise directly with GRETB for information on this.