What are Apprenticeships and Traineeships?

In Australia, Apprenticeships and Traineeships are known as Australian Apprenticeships and are a combination of training with paid employment – offering recognised qualifications in over 500 occupations. So there’s sure to be one to suit you!

Apprenticeships

  • The time spent learning a skilled trade under a qualified tradesperson. Apprentices and employers have a legal agreement called a Training Contract
  • Learning is on the job (on-job) under a workplace supervisor, as well as off-job with a training provider
  • After finishing the apprenticeship, the apprentice receives a minimum qualification at a Certificate III or Certificate IV level.
  • Generally last four years.

Traineeships

  • The time spent learning under a suitably qualified supervisor.
  • Learning is on the job (on-job) under a workplace supervisor, as well as off-job with a training provider. In some instances, training may be completely undertaken in the workplace.
  • After finishing the traineeship, the trainee receives a minimum qualification at a Certificate II or Certificate III level.
  • Generally last between one and three years.
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What are the benefits of doing an Australian Apprentice?

Australian Apprenticeships offer a range of benefits, they:

  • Are a great way to get a head start in a chosen career
  • Involve paid work and structured training that can be on-the-job, off-the-job or a combination of both
  • In some instances allow for ‘Competency based’ training which means people can complete their training faster when they reach the required skills level
  • Enable existing skills and prior experience to be recognised and course credit granted, potentially reducing formal training time
  • Can be full or part-time and are also available part-time in many schools
  • Lead to nationally recognised qualifications and skills which provide the basis for further education and training over the course of a person’s working life
  • Can be an important pathway from school to work
  • Are available in a variety of certificate levels in more than 500 occupations across Australia, in traditional trades, as well as a diverse range of emerging careers in most sectors of business and industry.

For more information see the Australian Apprentices website

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“ Hands-on training has enabled me to acquire knowledge and experience that will benefit me for the rest of my working life.”

Bozica VranicTrainee of the Year 2012

“I value the ongoing learning experience, the direction, the perceived future outcomes of the trade, the interaction and the encouragement of my peers.”

Liam HowdenCNC Machinist

“ To have an apprenticeship, is to have a sense of purpose and accomplishment.”

Cameron ProcterIndigenous Apprentice of the Year 2012

“ An apprenticeship is a valuable stepping stone to a much longer and exciting career opportunity.”

Dale GoldfinchApprentice of the Year 2012

“I value the ongoing learning experience, the direction, future outcome, interaction and encouragement of my peers.”

Liam HowderSchool-Based Apprentice of the Year - 2012

“Meeting new people, gaining new skills and seeing how different places worked was invaluable.”

ColletteNow the Team Leader at Enfield Memorial Park who started out with Maxima Group Training