Cross Roads

Have you ever considered doing an apprenticeship? If not, you might be interested to find out what the process involves, and why it could be a good option for you. If you are considering an apprenticeship as a post-compulsory education option (something to do after you finish year 10 or later) then this section should provide some advice on how to get the ball rolling and things to look out for. Either way, have a look and hopefully you will be better able to make a decision when/if the time comes.

What?

So, what is an apprenticeship? The word 'apprentice' comes from the French word apprendre, which means 'to learn'. Basically, an apprenticeship involves working with an employer to learn/become qualified in a trade or skill. Most of the time there is some formal training as well, and, depending on the situation, this is done either on-site (at the same place as you work) or at a Registered Training Organisation (eg. TAFE). The formal training part of the apprenticeship is usually only one day a week.

Traditionally, apprenticeships take three to four years to complete, and traineeships take one or two years. Because of this difference in time spent learning, trainees and apprentices have different rights and responsibilities. Just to make things more confusing, there is now as system called 'New Apprenticeships' which can include trainee or apprentice positions. New Apprenticeships are competency based, which means that the time taken to complete your training is dependent on the attainment of a particular level of skill.

Why?

Why might this be a good option for you? What are the main positives of doing an apprenticeship? Well, for starters…

• Its hands-on - you get practical experience, and you're not stuck in a classroom
• You get to 'earn while you learn' - you get paid (award rate plus benefits);
• You get very high job prospects - 93% find full-time employment within 3 months of completing an apprenticeship (that's according to statistics from the National Centre for Vocational Education Research, project no: mk0008; available online at http://www.ncver.edu.au/research/proj2/mk0008e.htm

Do you want to know more?