Most Themblise lack a formal education, and are illiterate. Only about a third of the population can read and write. Those who receive a formal education usually receive them either through a private teacher or through a university in a city. These universities usually teach in large groups with no specific age range. Since one might become wealthy enough for an education when they are an adult, there are few classes that encourage only one age group. Basic subjects, like reading, writing, and simple mathematics, are usually taught by one singular teacher, while more advanced courses are taught by a specialist. Classes are typically taught through direct instruction, with little to no group projects or group participation. Themblise formal education, unfortunately, is very cut-and-dry, and boredom often discourages further education.
However, although their formal education is often lacking, Themblise make up for it with their wide range of technical skills. From farmers to sailors to construction workers and leatherworkers, Themblise are not afraid to get dirty to make a living. The vast majority of the job market involves technical skills. However, the growth of technology and inventions like the printing press are slowly making education more available and encourages soft skills, for jobs such as scribes and clerks.
It is most common for creatures to learn a trade through apprenticeship. Apprenticeships are through a contract, usually drawn up by a scribe or sworn in front of a priest. These contracts build an agreed time limit and list of duties and expectations between a master of a trade and the apprentice. However, since apprentices are often underage (although not always), the contract is often designed and agreed to by a master and the apprentice’s parents or guardian. Many farmers attempt to get an apprenticeship for at least one of their children, as an apprenticeship is one of the easier ways to move up the socioeconomic ladder.