Traineeships: FAQ for Students
Our Traineeship is a great option for young people aged between 16-18, who don’t yet have the skills or experience to take on a job or an apprenticeship.
Traineeships act as a skills development programme, where you complete an unpaid work placement alongside a training course.
For more information, take a look at our frequently asked questions below
What is a Traineeship?
A traineeship is a work placement programme designed to prepare you for the world of work and help you towards an apprenticeship or other employment. Our apprenticeships are available for young people aged between 16 and 18 and who are struggling to enter the world of work. They act as a stepping stone into the professional working world.
What is involved?
The core parts of a traineeship include;
- Completion of a quality work-placement of at least 70 hours with a local employer
- Training to ensure that you are equip with the skills needed to be successful in the work placement
- English, maths and digital skills support, where required
- CV and applications support
How long does a traineeship last?
Traineeships last for a minimum of 6 weeks and a maximum of a year. Most traineeships are completed within 3 to 6 months and we expect that you will be ready to progress onto an apprenticeship after 3 months.
Do I get paid to complete a traineeship?
Traineeships are unpaid because they are a work experience placement, not a job. Many employers do support trainees with expenses, such as transport and meals.
If you are in receipt of benefits, you will still receive these during your traineeship. You may also be able to claim a 16-19 bursary fund and we will be able to discuss this with you.
Why should I choose a traineeship?
Through practical experience, traineeships teach you the ins and outs of the industry and provide insight into the typical tasks you will be expected to undertake in full-time employment. You will gain valuable on the job experience coupled with trainer led sessions to develop your soft skills and employability skills including:
- Techniques in writing a CV and job application
- An understanding of what it is like to work for an employer
- Transferable skills and knowledge from other employees
- Increased self-confidence and self-esteem
- Valuable work experience in a supportive environment
- Opportunities to interview for a permanent role if a vacancy becomes available
- An understanding of what employers are looking for
Many trainees go on to work in the organisation that conducted their traineeship. However, if you decide that path isn’t right for you, or if it is unavailable at the time, then you have the advantage of valuable work experience to add to your CV and a meaningful written reference after having a high-quality interview with the employer.
What will I get from BPIF Training?
- Training to prepare you for work, including CV writing and what to expect in the workplace
- Support to improve your English, maths and digital skills if you need it.
- Sector focused vocational learning to help prepare you for your apprenticeship or job and recognition of your learning
- All trainees will have access to our skills hub for the duration of their traineeship and for the 12 months following
What will I get from the the employer?
- A high-quality work placement of at least 70 hours.
- An interview for an apprenticeship or job if available, or an exit interview with written feedback
- Opportunities to interview for a permanent role if a vacancy becomes available
What will my future prospects be?
Research shows that:
- 66% of trainees progressed to positive destinations within 6 months
- 75% of trainees started further learning, employment or an apprenticeship within 12 months of starting a traineeship
- 83% if trainees found the programme help improve their chances for the future
We are committed to ensuring that trainees on a BPIF Training programme are able to progress as a result of their traineeship
You can view our current traineeship vacancies here, or get in touch with us to start your traineeship journey today