One of the key benefits of pursuing apprenticeships and traineeships is that they provide you with crucial practical experience within your chosen industry. This on-the-job training can prove instrumental in building your skills, confidence and employability.
In fact, Hays CEO Alistair Cox has claimed that many employers are currently concerned that graduates in Australia will find it difficult to obtain a job following higher education because they lack hours in the workplace.
He noted that businesses typically look for people with vocational or technical knowledge first, which could spell good news for those who choose to gain qualifications through apprenticeships and traineeships.
BUSY At Work’s Apprenticeship Central website can help you explore apprenticeship and traineeship opportunities in Australia. Post your CV online, contact employers and read FAQs and tips on how to get the most out of these arrangements.
“Many students leave university or higher education without any relevant experience because many courses are not geared toward this,” said Mr Cox.
“Yet employers value graduates with experience. Even a few weeks spent in the industry or sector they ultimately wish to enter puts graduates ahead of other candidates without such experience.”
Government focus on apprenticeships and traineeships
Mr Cox’s comments came after National Centre for Vocational Education Research figures revealed there was a 4.6 per cent rise in the number of Australians starting training in non-trade professions this year when compared to 2015. The data suggests more people are looking to on-the-job training for a head start on their path to a new career.
Assistant Minister for Vocational Education and Skills Karen Andrews said apprenticeships and traineeships continue to deliver a number of benefits and the government is keen to highlight their importance.
“We are actively working to improve the system through a number of initiatives, including the Australian Apprenticeship Support Network – introduced to assist employers to recruit, train and retain apprentices while also helping apprentices get the support they need to complete their training,” she stated in September.
To raise the status of apprenticeships and traineeships in the country, the government launched a series of videos to mark National Skills Week between August 29 and September 4.
The videos featured various former National Rugby League stars who had experience of apprenticeships. The aim is to inspire and encourage a new generation of youngsters to pursue vocational education and training.
By Leanne Macnamara, Public Relations Coordinator
