A traineeship is one form of a contract of training provided for under the Training and Skills Development Act 2003.  It is an agreement between an employer and a trainee and, in most cases when the trainee is less than eighteen years of age, the parent or guardian of the trainee.  The agreement or contract in writing is called the Contract of Training and contains obligations, which define the responsibilities of the parties involved.

The employer undertakes to provide the trainee with employment and practical training in a declared vocation and to arrange instruction by the best means in their power.  The employer also undertakes to allow the trainee to receive such courses of instruction or other training as is determined by the Act.

The trainee, and their guardian, where applicable, give an assurance that the trainee will serve the employer diligently and faithfully and conduct themselves in a courteous, obedient and proper manner.  A guardian’s responsibility under the contract, if initially present ceases upon the trainee attaining the age of eighteen years.

When employed by the MTA Group Training Scheme, trainees are provided with overalls, safety boots, safety glasses and gloves (other equipment may be supplied depending on vocation).