An apprenticeship was a way for a boy to learn a trade, as well as to continue his education to some degree. Boys were apprenticed around the age of thirteen or fourteen, and the typical apprenticeship lasted approximately seven years. A legally binding agreement, even for family members, it provided protection for the apprentice as well as for the employer. The boy was to be provided with adequate food, shelter, clothing, and education, beyond the training required to learn the trade. The apprentice was more than a servant, but less than an employee, often working long hours and doing the menial tasks at the beginning of the indenture period. A fee was given to the tradesman who was to provide the training, such as Miss Havisham gave to Joe Gargery when Pip was apprenticed. An apprenticeship could be ended by both parties with mutual consent. At the end of the indenture, the apprentice was licensed as a journeyman and could choose his employer.
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