An apprenticeship is a training programme that combines on-the-job training with off-the-job training. This creates a mixture of hands on learning, as well as classroom based. It’s a way for individuals to learn a skilled trade or profession through hands-on experience while earning a wage. During an apprenticeship, apprentices work under the guidance of experienced professionals, known as journeymen or mentors, who provide supervision, instruction, and mentorship.

The apprenticeship typically lasts for a designated period, which can range from one to six years depending on the complexity of the trade or profession. At the end of the apprenticeship, apprentices often undergo a certification or assessment process to demonstrate their proficiency in the skills and knowledge required for the occupation. Upon successful completion, apprentices may receive a recognised credential, such as a journeyman’s certificate or a professional license, which qualifies them to work independently in their chosen field.