Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to outline the different types and features of apprenticeships available in the 1950s. Design/methodology/approach: The term "apprenticeship" has lost the weight it had when it was originally conceived in the sixteenth century, and has now (at the time of writing) become a blanket term. It covers: temporary and transient positions--messengers, lorry-drivers' mates, etc.; juvenile workers--assembly line work (little or no training) and "genuine apprentices"--including craft/trade apprenticeships, student or technical apprenticeships, and graduate apprenticeships. People are assigned to a grade of apprenticeship based on how a person achieves in the national educational system. Findings: Apprenticeships vary in terms of: length of training, content, future career progression possibilities and education provided. It is suggested that the industry joined and training provided, alongside the opportunities available may be more valuable to a school leaver than an "apprenticeship." Originality/value: This paper provides a useful look on the role of an apprentice in the 1950s. [This article was first published in "Technical Education," Volume 1 Issue 1 (1958/1959), and is being republished as part of a Special Issue to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the journal, which is now called "Education + Training."]