WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN AN APPRENTICESHIP AND TRAINEESHIP?
An apprenticeship usually relates to a trade, eg electrician, hairdresser, chef, plumber or carpenter. A traineeship generally relates to industries that don’t need a trade certificate, eg business, retail, hospitality and more.
HOW LONG WILL MY APPRENTICESHIP TAKE?
Full time apprenticeships take between 36 to 48 months, depending on the apprentice and how quickly you complete the competencies. An apprentice will undertake qualifications from Cert Level III to Advanced Diploma. Full time traineeships will take between 12 and 24 months, undertaking qualifications from Cert Level I to Advanced Diploma.
Recognition of prior learning, on the job learning and formal or informal experience can all contribute towards competency and completion of your qualification.
IS THERE A PROBATIONARY PERIOD?
Yes, usually the probationary period for a full-time apprenticeship is 90 days while a traineeship is 30-60 days.
IS THERE ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA TO BECOME AN APPRENTICE OR TRAINEE?
Apprenticeships or traineeships are available to anyone of working age who are Australian Citizens or Permanent Residents, a NZ Passport holder or the holder of a visa type which allows you to work in Australia. You don’t need a secondary school certificate or other qualification to be able to do an apprenticeship or traineeship.
You can do an apprenticeship or traineeship if you’re a school leaver, re-entering the workforce or as an adult worker simply wishing to change careers or gain new skills. You can even begin your apprenticeship or traineeship while you’re still at school finishing Years 11 and 12.
DO I NEED TO BE EMPLOYED FULL TIME?
As an apprentice or trainee you can combine time at work with training and can be either employed as full-time, part-time (minimum of 15 hours per week).
As a school-based apprentice you must be employed on a permanent basis, not casual (you will need to work a minimum of 50 days per year, usually one day per week).
WHAT INCENTIVES ARE AVAILABLE?
There are a number of incentives you may be eligible for including Trade Support Loans, Living Away from Home Allowances and Centrelink allowances under Youth Allowance, Austudy and Abstudy. Contact Sarina Russo on 13 15 59.
Depending on your circumstances, you may also be eligible for other government incentives or support services when commencing your apprenticeship or traineeship.
HOW DO I FIND AN APPRENTICESHIP?
There are hundreds of employers seeking apprentices or trainees for their workplace and in a wide range of industries. You can approach employers directly, or visit Sarina Russo’s Jobs Board
School Based Apprenticeships & Traineeships – FAQ
WHAT’S A SCHOOL BASED APPRENTICESHIP?
A school-based apprenticeship or traineeship (SBAT) lets you work as a paid employee, train on the job and complete your Year 10, 11 or 12 studies. You’ll work towards achieving a nationally recognised qualification.
AM I ELIGIBLE?
You need to be at school to qualify as well as being an Australian Citizen, New Zealand passport holder or holder of a visa which allows you to work in Australia. You need to be able to work a minimum of 50 days a year where your employment and training will impact your school timetable.
HOW MUCH DO I GET PAID?
This depends on your qualification and the award you are required to be paid by your employer. Pay rates and minimum conditions can be found on the Fairwork website – www.fairwork.gov.au/pay. Subject to eligibility financial incentives may be
available to you or your employer.
WHAT HAPPENS IF I FINISH SCHOOL BEFORE I COMPLETE MY APPRENTICESHIP OR TRAINEESHIP?
Depending on your employer, you can continue with your apprenticeship or traineeship once you leave school, either in a full time or part time capacity.
HOW LONG DOES A SCHOOL-BASED APPRENTICESHIP OR TRAINEESHIP TAKE?
A full-time traineeship can take between 12 – 24 months. A full-time apprenticeship is generally 36 – 48 months. School-based apprenticeships and traineeships may take longer, depending on the qualification you have chosen, how you apply yourself and how quickly you complete the required competencies.
HOW DOES THE SCHOOL HELP?
First you need your school’s permission. Most students are eligible and it’s best to seek advice and approval from your Guidance Counsellor or Careers Advisor. The school will then work together with you, your parents, your employer and the training provider to assist with any support you need.
WHICH TRAINING PROVIDER DO I CHOOSE?
You can choose a public institution (like TAFE) or from a range of private Registered Training Organisations who offer the qualification you want. The training provider is responsible for developing your training plan and delivering and assessing your formal training.
HOW DOES SARINA RUSSO HELP YOU?
Sarina Russo provides support and information to you, your employer and your school. We can also help find you a suitable employer in the industry of your choice, guidance in selecting a training provider, assistance with claiming any eligible financial incentives, mentoring support if needed and more.