The participant journey
Ten stages from discovery to progression.
The journey is structured so that no participant is left to guess what happens next. Each stage has a clear purpose, a clear owner and clear evidence.
- DiscoverExplore pathways, formats and live opportunities. Understand what Skill2Create is — and is not.
- ProfileRegister and build your profile: background, interests, goals and current skills.
- Eligibility assessmentA short assessment of readiness, availability and fit for work-based learning.
- Skills-gap identificationWe identify the gap between where you are and what your target placement requires — and point you to the learning you need.
- Matching & placementApply to listed opportunities or be matched to a host. Terms are disclosed and agreed before you start.
- Work-based learningReal work under a named supervisor, with progressive responsibility and milestones.
- Mentoring & supervisionRegular check-ins, feedback and development conversations with your mentor.
- AssessmentTechnical, professional and creation competencies assessed through evidence and demonstration.
- Evidence & portfolioVerified outputs, reviews and competencies recorded in your Capability Passport.
- ProgressionEmployment, contract, venture launch, further learning or a new placement — documented and supported.
Timeframes
How long does it take?
- Registration to eligibility — within 7 days
Profile review and eligibility assessment are completed within a week of registration.
- Matching — 1 to 4 weeks
Depends on your chosen pathway, format and host availability. Open listings can be faster.
- Placement — 4 weeks to 12 months
Industry residencies can be short and intensive; apprenticeships run for 6 to 12 months.
- Progression — documented at exit
Every placement closes with an assessment, a Passport update and an agreed next step.
Frequently asked
Do I need prior training before I register?
No. You can register directly with Skill2Create. Where a skills gap exists, we point you to the learning you need before or alongside your placement.
Is it free to participate?
Yes. Registering and applying is free. Placements state their compensation (stipend, salary, project fee, equity or unpaid learning fellowship) before you accept.
Can I apply to more than one opportunity?
Yes. We recommend focusing on one pathway at a time, but you may apply to several listings that match it.
What if a placement does not meet the standards?
Report it through our grievance process. We investigate, and hosts that breach standards lose verified status.
I am an organisation. How do I take part?
Start at Post an opportunity. We verify your organisation, agree standards and help you design and list placements.
Begin at stage one.
Browse opportunities, or register and let us match you.