An apprenticeship involves full-time or part-time work with an employer who provides an opportunity to learn all aspects of a trade. This is a structured program with a combination of on the job and off the job training at a TAFE college or another registered training organisation. In a traineeship you gain hands-on skills and work experience, and improve your employment prospects, while earning a wage. You also get a nationally recognised qualification which can lead to rewarding career options. The difference between a traineeship and an apprenticeship is that a traineeship can be either a full-time or part-time employment based training arrangement, usually for around 12 months (apprenticeships usually last for three to four years) and is generally in a non-trade related area.

As an apprentice or trainee you can: earn an income while you study, gain hands-on work experience, acquire a nationally recognised qualification and be debt free (no HECS-HELP or FEE-HELP debt).

A full time Apprenticeship/Traineeship can take anywhere from one to four years to complete, depending on type of apprenticeship or traineeship and the specific qualification and include qualifications from Certificate II to Advanced Diploma level. Apprenticeships are ‘competency based’ meaning you can complete your training sooner if you gain the required skill levels more quickly than usual. You may also be eligible for course credits for prior workplace experience or skills you already have, potentially reducing your formal training time.

This is a negotiation between employer and employee, based on your industry and business. There is a minimum condition for employers and employees across Australia. You can view these at www.fairwork.gov.au or call Fair Work 13 13 94.

A Registered Training Organisation (RTO) is a provider and assessor of nationally recognised vocational education and training (VET), resulting in qualifications or statements of attainment that are recognised and accepted by industry and other educational institutions throughout Australia.

AASN providers can provide a list of registered training organisations offering your qualification. When choosing a training provider, it is important to consider.

• How much input an employer and apprentice/trainee have into the course?
• Where the training will take place and when it will be accessed?
• How often will your provider visit you both at work and provide feedback?
• What other assistance can they provide?
• How are they funded?

There are over 600 qualifications to choose from. If you’re not sure what the right apprenticeship or traineeship is for your business, an AASN can assist you in choosing the right qualification.

Your apprenticeship or traineeship is complete once you, your employer and your training organisation agree that all the requirements of your training plan have been fulfilled. Apprentices or trainees can complete depends on a range of factors, including your competence and skills; the ability of your employer to provide work experience in the range of competencies required and the ability of your training organisation to provide flexible training programs.

If you recommence an apprenticeship or traineeship (the same as your previous qualification), generally you will receive credit for previous service. If eligible credit is applied to, and may reduce, the nominal term of the apprenticeship or traineeship. The State Training Authority (STA) will determine the appropriate amount of 'time' credit applicable.

Apprentices and trainees may be eligible for financial assistance through:

• Support for Adult Australian Apprentices
• Living Away From Home Allowance
• Youth Allowance, Austudy and ABSTUDY

Individuals who have transferable skills, the ability to network, and above all, the right attitude.

• Positive attitude to work, punctuality and flexibility
• Cope with setbacks and criticism, motivated to overcome obstacles, and stay calm under pressure
• HGood verbal communication skills, with the ability to ask questions
• Do not behave badly (no mucking around) or leaving early
• Use your initiative (get things done and take responsibility)
• Listen and learn; How much you learn is up to you (what you put in you get back)

There are laws in place to protect and support apprentices in the workplace. Apprentices receive the same entitlements as other employees e.g. annual leave, sick leave public holidays and breaks, where you work under an award or agreement specific to your trade. As an apprentice you will be released from your work to attend training, be provided supervision and support and a safe working environment including Personal protective equipment (PPE).