What is a Traineeship?

A Traineeship is an education and training programme with work experience that is focused on giving young people the skills and experience that employers are looking for. At its core are work preparation training, English and Maths for those who need it and a high quality work experience placement.

Traineeships have been developed in response to research showing that young people frequently lack the knowledge and experience employers expect in the workplace.

They are a springboard for young people who have been unsuccessful in applying for jobs and Apprenticeships because they didn’t get a grade C or above in their English or Maths GCSEs or because they lack work experience. Traineeships offer the opportunity for young people to learn as the same time as demonstrating to employers that they are enthusiastic and able to succeed in a job. Employers benefit by getting to know a young person before offering them a job and can tailor the training to what is needed in their specific work places.

Traineeships last between 6 weeks and 6 months. Progression should be into an Apprenticeship or paid employment, ideally with the employer providing the work placement but if that is not possible Trainees should be more successful when applying for other jobs having received a reference and valuable work experience while on their Traineeship.

All training costs are met by government funding. Employers are not required to pay young people taking part in Traineeships but are encouraged to support trainees with expenses such as travel and lunch costs.

Are you an employer?

• You as an employer can design a high quality Traineeship within your company in partnership with a training provider – one that suits both the needs of your business and the needs of the trainee
• You can get ahead of the competition by bringing enthusiastic young people with their fresh ideas into your business
• Traineeships will allow you to shape the skills and experience of young people from your local community, helping your business to develop a loyal and talented workforce
• Working with trainees will give established staff members the chance to develop their skills in mentoring and coaching young people
• If you decide to offer a trainee an Apprenticeship you could be eligible for funding to support you

Are you a young person thinking a Traineeship might be right for you?

• A Traineeship will put you in a better position to compete for an Apprenticeship or other job
• You'll get the opportunity to build your CV and get vital experience with local and national employers
• Improving your English and Maths skills will boost your chances of getting a job, as well as improving your long term prospects and earning potential over your lifetime
• Employers are at the centre of Traineeships to ensure they give you the skills you need to secure a job and succeed in employment
• At the end of the work experience placement you may get a job interview with the company if a role becomes available

We believe that a Traineeship in Oxfordshire can be a very valuable way for both employers and young people to 'try before they buy' ahead of an Apprenticeship and will be working with employers to increase the number of opportunities available locally.

Whether you are a young person, parent/carer or employer, contact us to find out more about Traineeships.

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