This discussion paper presents the findings of a situational appraisal undertaken by National Institute of Adult Continuing Education (NIACE) for the Gatsby Charitable Foundation and explores whether and how Traineeships can work for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) within the context of a Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) area. It draws on desk research and interviews undertaken within the Dorset LEP area and aims to identify the potential and the barriers associated with Traineeships within STEM-based roles. This discussion paper is the output of phase one of a wider piece of work that NIACE has been commissioned to undertake on behalf of the Gatsby Charitable Foundation.