The educational qualification for a specific role will be outlined by the employer.
Educational Requirement for Apprentice
Apprentices must be at least 16 years of age and have a minimum of grade D or 'Achieved' in any five subjects in the Junior Certificate or equivalent. However, employers may require additional minimum qualifications.
Where individuals do not meet the minimum requirements they may be registered as an apprentice by an employer if:
They satisfactorily complete an approved preparatory training course and assessment interview. For information on these courses please contact your local ETB - EDUCATIONAL TRAINING BOARD;
or
They are over 18 years of age with a minimum of three years' relevant work experience and satisfactorily complete an assessment interview.
Apprentices must be employed in their chosen occupation by an employer who has been approved by SOLAS. The employer must register the apprentice with SOLAS within 2 weeks of recruitment.
An apprentice is a person who works for an employer in their chosen occupation and gains the necessary skills, knowledge and competencies to become a qualified craftsperson. The duration of an apprenticeship is a minimum of 4 years.
The apprenticeship system is a modular standards-based system comprising of 7 alternating phases of training and development four on-the-job and three off-the-job. On successful completion of your apprenticeship, you will receive a QQI Level 6 Advanced Certificate Craft. This qualification is recognised both nationally and internationally.
Other Requirement:
A person wishing to become an apprentice in one of the select automotive categories must pass a colour-vision test (the “Ishihara” Colour Vision Test 24 Plate Edition).
New entrants arrive in the sector from various educational and training routes. The most traditional entry routes would be from schools or colleges. Students may pursue apprenticeships which involve a combination of working with a company and studying in a third level institution.
In order to secure an apprenticeship, applicants need to find an employer who will take on an apprentice and is approved to do so by SOLAS.
If you're thinking of a career in the motor industry click here for more information.
