Work-based learning is the term that is used to refer to courses, such as Traineeships and Apprenticeships, that provide you real-life work experiences whilst applying academic and technical skills to enhance your employment opportunities.

A NI Traineeship programme comprises the following key elements:

• A main professional and technical qualification in your chosen occupational area.
• Skills development and digital skills.
• Transversal skills.
• A mandatory work placement.
• Literacy and numeracy qualifications at Level 2 (may include GCSE qualifications in English and mathematics).
• Additional qualifications deemed necessary for work within a sector, such as health and safety, CSR and manual handling.
• Project-based learning will also be a key feature of Traineeships. With this type of active and engaged learning, you will be inspired to obtain a deeper knowledge of the subjects you are studying and develop a wide range of hands-on skills. 

Applicants must:

• Have a minimum of a Level 1 qualification defined as 4 GCSEs at grades D-G including Maths and English grades D-F or equivalent; and
• Applicants that have not obtained a level 1 qualification profile but can show an equivalent level of experiential learning may also undertake a NI Traineeship.
• Attend an information session
• The College Admissions process and the relevant academic staff have the discretion to apply professional judgement and discretion in accepting applicants to the NI Traineeship programme.
• All applicants must be able to demonstrate at enrolment stage that they have a satisfactory level of fluency in English – both written and spoken.
• The College reserves the right to refer any applicant to appropriate English Language or Literacy classes until their level of fluency in written and spoken English is sufficient to allow participation in study

Each traineeship area has a sector agreed enhanced entry requirement in English and Maths.  See table below:

The majority of NI Traineeships will typically take up to two years to complete on a full-time basis. Some NI Traineeships take one year to complete:

• Animal Care
• Art and Design
• Barbering, Beauty and Nail Services
• Business Services
• Childcare
• Computing/ICT
• Hairdressing
• Health and Social Care
• Hospitality Team Member
• Media and Communication
• Performing Arts
• Science
• Sport

Two year NI Traineeships include:

• Brickwork
• Catering and Professional Chef
• Engineering
• Joinery
• Motor Vehicle
• Plumbing
   

If you achieve qualifications during the first year you may be able to progress to an apprenticeship or further education earlier.

Transfer

Trainees who secure employment, in their chosen occupational area, during their traineeship can transfer seamlessly to Apprenticeship Level 2.  As an apprentice, if you become unemployed during your apprenticeship, you can transfer onto a Traineeship to complete your programme.  Find out some tips on how to secure an employer.

Progression

On completion of the NI Traineeship, you can progress within the College to a Level 3 further education course or a Level 3 Apprenticeship (possibly with your work placement employer).  This can lead to Higher Education options. 

An Employer Guide to Traineeships is now available providing an overview of the Northern Ireland Traineeship, range of Traineeships available, alignment to Apprenticeships and Frequently Asked Questions.