Career Advisers

What is involved in an Australian Apprenticeship?

Australian Apprentices and Trainees undertake a combination of on-the-job training through their employment and off-the-job training at a Registered Training Organisation, such as a TAFE or private provider.

On completion, Australian Apprentices are awarded a formal qualification at a Certificate, Diploma or Advanced Diploma level by their Registered Training Organisation. This can lead into higher level qualifications including university studies, and may count towards eligibility criteria. Trade qualifications may also lead to trade papers and licences in some areas.

Australian School-based Apprenticeships may count towards the student's high school certificate of education.

During their training apprentices and trainees gain between 12 months and 4 years of employment experience. This training relates directly to the development of skills needed in the workplace. Apprentice and trainee graduates have the highest rates of employment of any education graduates, including university!

How do you find an Australian Apprenticeship job?

An employment opportunity is core to an Australian Apprenticeship. This means that anyone wanting to start an apprenticeship or traineeship must first find an employer.

Job hunting for an apprenticeship or traineeship job is similar to finding any other type of entry level position. Job ads are one way to find a position, but contacting employers directly is also a great way to find positions. Group Training Organisations, who hire apprentices and trainees and host them to employers, are also a good way to find a position.

What training is involved in an Australian Apprenticeship?

All apprenticeships and traineeships involve studying towards a vocational education and training qualification. The training varies depending on the qualification, location, and the arrangement between the employer and training provider. Some apprentices and trainees may do some study online, while others will be classroom based.

The employer will also train the apprentice or trainee on the job. This is an important part of any Australian Apprenticeship, to develop the work skills needed for that job.

What are the language, literacy and numeracy requirements for this training?

Language, literacy and numeracy skills are an important foundation for the training that will be done as an apprenticeship or traineeship. Higher level qualifications typically require higher literacy and numeracy skills.

The Practice Aptitude Quizzes allow someone to assess their literacy and numeracy abilities. These quizzes assess the skills required for an entry-level position and are contextualised to the industry.