If you’re mulling over your future career options, an apprenticeship or traineeship may be necessary to help you get a foot in the door of your desired industry.
Apprenticeships and traineeships combine training and employment over a period of time. On successful completion of these courses, you will receive a nationally recognised qualification that can help you enter the workforce you’re interested in.
You will develop the skills and experience required for your chosen occupation.
What do I need to be eligible?
No qualifications, such as a secondary school certificate, are required to be able to do an Australian Apprenticeship – apprenticeships and traineeships are available to anyone of working age. This means you can take on new skills and experiences if you’re a school leaver, wishing to change careers or re-entering the workforce.
What types of apprenticeships are there?
There are several types available, including adult apprenticeships, school-based apprenticeships and mature age apprenticeships, with each taking into account the specific needs of the targeted age group.
How can an apprenticeship or traineeship benefit me?
Australian Apprenticeships present a range of benefits including a pathway from school to work for students.
You will have opportunities to ‘earn as you learn’ and take part in ‘competency-based’ training which means you may be able to complete training faster when you reach the required skill level.
Finally, you can obtain valuable recognised qualifications which can provide the basis for further education and training over your working life.
Ultimately, an apprenticeship or traineeship can be an important stepping stone to beginning your career.
What job roles can I do an apprenticeship or traineeship in?
Apprenticeships and traineeships cover a wide range of career options, encompassing more than 600 qualifications across Australia.
It’s not just traditional trades such as motor mechanics, plumbing, carpentry and welding that are covered by Australian Apprenticeships, but also jobs such as hairdressing, picture framing, landscape gardening, zoo keeping and fashion design.
You may also be able to take advantage of financial assistance initiatives such as Support for Adult Australian Apprentices and Tools for Your Trade payments if the trade you decide to undertake is listed in the National Skills Needs list.
Some of these trades include aircraft maintenance engineers, cabinetmakers, fibrous plasterers, joiners, painters, decorators, screen printers, stonemasons and vehicle trimmers.
What steps do I need to take?
If you’re ready to pursue an apprenticeship or traineeship, there are a few steps you can take to prepare yourself.
Write up your resume, noting down your key skills and experience relevant to the Australian Apprenticeship for which you’re applying.
Proceed to do some research on your desired apprenticeship or traineeship. This may involve getting more detailed information on the job role and requirements, finding out the incentives available to you and the structure and fees of a particular course.
