Undertaking an apprenticeship is a great way to receive nationally recognised training while learning practical skills and earning a wage. Australian apprentices can also learn their trade off the job at a TAFE or Registered Training Organisation.
The building and construction industry is an umbrella for a range of skills, including bricklaying, plumbing, glazing, carpentry, and so forth. Those undertaking a construction apprenticeship can expect to be apprenticed for three to four years, and are paid according to a national standard, ensuring all apprentices are paid a fair wage during their training.
Working in a construction apprenticeship
Students still in high school who wish to work in construction are able to apply for a pre-apprenticeship. This involves the completion of a portion of the apprenticeship requirements while still studying a year 12 certificate, allowing the graduate to get a head start in the industry. Most construction apprentices are required to have completed year 10 at school, and have gained good results in English and Maths in that time.
Depending on the skill being learned, most Australian apprenticeships in the construction industry should enjoy working with their hands, working on a building site, be able to work to certain specifications, and confidently complete measurements and calculations. Many construction apprenticeships also require working on early mornings.
Opportunities for construction apprenticeships
There are great opportunities available for Australian apprenticeships. Construction job prospects are good, and on completing an apprenticeship, builders and construction workers make an average of $1186 per week, according to Skills One. An apprenticeship is a great way to become employed in a construction job, while being paid throughout your studies.