Apprenticeships
An apprenticeship is just the beginning of your career journey. Apprentices develop a skilled trade, such as electrical work, landscaping or nursery operations. When an apprentice completes their apprenticeship successfully, an apprentice becomes a qualified tradesperson.
Apprenticeships are formal on-the-job training arrangements between an employer and can be full time, part time or school based.
Apprenticeships provide an opportunity to train and earn an income at the same time while working towards a nationally recognised qualification. These qualifications can be at varying levels, ranging from entry level to trade and post trade.
There are many different types of people who become apprentices, including school-leavers, people re-entering the workforce and adults who have decided to change their career.
Research has also shown that employment earnings for those undertaking vocational education and training, including apprenticeships, is often higher and sooner than those undertaking university courses and other employment pathways.
What is the difference between apprenticeships and traineeships?
Apprentices develop a skilled trade, such as electrical work, cabinet making or landscaping. When an apprentice completes their apprenticeship successfully, an apprentice becomes a qualified tradesperson. Apprenticeships are usually 3-4 years in duration (depending on type) and are generally full time.
Trainees train in a vocational area, such as office administration, hospitality, information technology. When a trainee completes their traineeship successfully, the trainee receives a qualification anywhere from Certificate II up to Diploma level. Traineeships by contrast are usually 12-24 months in duration.
Both approaches involve on and off the job training.
