What is an Apprenticeship?

Apprenticeship is a programme of structured education and training. It combines and alternates learning in the workplace with learning in an education or training centre. Apprenticeship is a dual system, a blended combination of on-the-job employer-based training and off-the-job training. Apprentices seek employment with a SOLAS-approved employer for the duration of the apprenticeship, which is generally one to two years.

This immersed learning approach allows you to earn-as-you-learn whilst also developing highly-valued skills within the workplace.

Programmes co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union. Find out more about how the EU funds programmes like these by clicking on the logos above.

Pre-2016 Apprenticeships

Craft apprenticeships were developed before 2016, and are generally made up of seven phases: three off-the-job and four on-the-job. There are some exceptions to this, check out www.apprenticeship.ie for more information.

Post-2016 Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships developed after 2016 have varied on-the-job and off-the-job requirements. Examples of new apprenticeships are Hospitality, Finance, Biopharmachem, ICT, Logistics and Hairdressing with lots more in development. Check out www.apprenticeship.ie for more information.

Apprenticeship Qualifications

Apprenticeships are linked to the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ). Apprenticeships range from Levels 5 to 10 on the NFQ.

Current Apprenticeships

We deliver many of the apprenticeships from this listing at our two highly-equipped further education and training centres in the region. Our instructors ensure that apprentices are given the highest level of training during their time in our centres. Our highly experienced Senior Training Advisors will answer any questions on apprenticeships available nationwide.

How to become an Apprentice

To begin an apprenticeship, an applicant must be:

  • Employed by an approved employer.
  • At least 16 years of age and have a minimum of grade D in any five subjects in the Junior Certificate or equivalent.
    Note: Applies to Pre-2016 Apprenticeships. Higher educational qualifications and other requirements may be sought by employers. For further information on minimum entry requirements, visit www.apprenticeship.ie 

When registered with SOLAS, apprentice must:

  • Attend your off-the-job training when scheduled.
  • Complete any outstanding off-the-job training assessments.
  • Return your on-the-job phase results on time.
  • Familiarise and comply with your obligations under the Apprenticeship Code of Practice on www.apprenticeship.ie
What wages are Apprentices paid? 
  • During an apprenticeship, an apprentice will be paid an apprentice rate. The actual rates paid may vary depending on the occupation and employer.
  • Generally, the rates will increase in a number of steps during the apprenticeship.
  • Apprentices should seek details of rates of pay from their prospective employer.
How to become an Apprentice Employer
  • If an employer is not already registered with SOLAS, then they can get in touch with us and one of our Senior Training Advisors will assist with the approval and registration process, for which there is no charge.
  • The employer must register the apprentice with SOLAS within two weeks of Food and Beverage Service.
Female apprentices’ bursary for employers
  • To promote the entry of females into the designated apprenticeships, a bursary is available to employers to encourage an increased level of recruitment of female apprentices.
Contact us

If you would like further information on any Apprenticeship, you can search www.apprenticeship.ie or email app@lcetb.ie. Alternatively if you would like to speak with one of our Senior Training Advisors contact:

Senior Training Advisors
College of Further Education and Training
Raheen Campus
Raheen Business Park
Limerick, V94 CV66
(061) 487900

Get in Touch

How to get in contact
Back to Top