Apprenticeships combine training with earning a wage, and learning the skills to become qualified in a specific industry. Australian apprenticeships are available to all candidates, with no entry qualifications or prerequisites. During an apprenticeship, the apprentice learns on the job, while learning their trade from their employer.
Apprenticeships are available in more than 500 professions in Australia, such as hairdressing, building and construction, tourism, or even sport and recreation. Apprenticeships can be undertaken by anyone, including students just out of school, or even those already in the workforce but looking for a change of career.
Training for an apprenticeship
Once you have made contact with a centre and organised an employer, you have the choice of two ways of learning your apprenticeship in Australia. First is workplace based training, which involves structured learning in the workplace with a teacher or trainer. This is delivered outside of the apprentice's required work duties.
The second available option for studying your apprenticeship is 'off the job' training. This is provided by a TAFE centre or training provider, in a formal learning environment like a classroom or lecture theatre. This is also provided to the apprentice outside of required work hours, and the institution can be negotiated between the apprentice and their employer.
Apprenticeship training is undertaken on a contract, meaning the apprentice must agree to a duration of training, as well as the workplace and employer who will provide the skills required. These contracts usually contain a one to three month probation period, meaning the apprentice or teacher can cancel the contract within this time if unhappy.
Apprenticeship wages
Apprentices earn money while learning, usually called an apprentice wage. Apprenticeship wages vary depending on the training organisation as well as the employer. They also vary depending on how much school has been completed, and change depending on how many years of training have been completed.
Some training organisations are supported by the government, so as to provide apprenticeship training at a reduced cost. Therefore, it is important to get in touch with an Australian Apprenticeship Centre in order to confirm what wage you will earn in the area of expertise you undertake.
Apprentice Jobs
The Australian government has invested in Australian Apprenticeships, and therefore offers Apprenticeship Centres as access points for job seekers and employers. These centres link up employers and hopeful apprentices in order to match up their requirements.
Therefore the best way to apply is to get in contact with your nearest Australian Apprenticeships Centre. You can find the nearest centre to you by calling Skilling Australia on 13 38 73 for the cost of a local call.
Australian apprentice jobs are a great way to learn a specific skill and earn money at the same time. So whether you’re interested in being a mechanic, an electrician, hairdresser, plumber, carpenter, or so much more, it is a valid way of learning your trade while earning a living.