Information for School Leavers (pdf) - Citizens Information Board

The rate of the weekly training allowance you get is linked to
your age. In 2011, if you are 15 or 16 years of age the rate is
€76.65. If you are aged 17 years, the rate is €95.75. If you
are 18 or over, it is €188.00.
However, if you are getting a higher social welfare payment
before starting the course, your training allowance will match
that higher rate.
Traineeship Programme
You can get training, experience and a qualification by taking
part in the FÁS Traineeship Programme. It involves both
learning in a training centre and working with an employer. It
usually lasts between 20 and 40 weeks but this depends on
the course. You can train in a range of different areas – check
with FÁS for details.
Statutory Apprenticeship Training
If you are interested in learning both on the job and in
the classroom, you can do apprenticeships in trades such
as engineering, construction, motor, electrical, furniture and
printing.
An apprenticeship generally lasts for four years, about 40
weeks of which will be in off-the-job training. During offthe-job
training FÁS, or in some cases the employer, will
pay you a weekly training allowance. While you are training
on-the-job, your employer will pay you a recommended
apprenticeship wage.
Work Placement Programme
If you are unemployed, you can apply to take part in the
Work Placement Programme which provides full-time work
experience for up to nine months. It is unpaid and voluntary
10 / Lo-call: 1890 777 121