What is an apprenticeship or traineeship?
Newsflash: Uni isn’t your only option!
Did you know that once you’ve finished an apprenticeship (or traineeship) your wage often exceeds those of a uni grad? Oh, and you’re more likely to find a job too!
Apprenticeships and Traineeships allow you to earn while you learn!
Apprenticeships and Traineeships can provide you with a nationally recognised qualification while working; learning valuable skills and earning at the same time.
According to the McCrindle report for Skilling Australia ‘Myths, realities & the critical role of vocational education & training in Australia (May 2017) the VET sector continues to deliver excellent results and superior job outcomes. When compared to employment outcomes for university graduates, VET continues to produce far better results – proving itself as an adaptable, flexible and accessible for education and skilling school leavers.
Here are 3 awesome reasons to give uni a miss and start an apprentice or traineeship instead
1. VET graduates wages often exceed those of University Graduates
The average full time income for uni grads with a Bachelor degree is $54,000 compared to a VET Graduate at $56,000.
2. VET graduates have a higher employment rate than university undergraduates, with 78% of VET graduates employed after training.
Enrolment in bachelor degrees are higher than ever and sadly full time employment post graduation is continuing to fall at 69%. Comparatively, 78% of graduates are employed after training, with the number increasing to 82% for individuals who completed an apprenticeship or traineeship.
3. VET courses are adaptable and ‘keep up’ with workforce needs
With the Department of Employment predicting workforce occupations in demand over the next five years; the VET sector provides training courses for 9 out of these 10 in demand occupations.
When you successfully finish your apprenticeship or traineeship, you’ll walk away with a nationally recognised qualification!
So what is an apprenticeship or traineeship exactly?
Apprenticeships and traineeships combine work-based training with an employer and formal training from a training provider. They are established under training contracts between the employer and the apprentice or trainee and are regulated by government. They’re a great way to be paid for work, learn and earn a qualification.
As an apprentice or trainee you will finish your higher-learning journey equipped with practical skills AND a formal education. This powerful combination of theoretical and hands-on experience is prized by employers across many industries and professions.
Apprenticeship vs Traineeship
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Apprenticeships
An Apprentice is trained in a traditional trade, such as a chef, mechanic, plumber or builder. Once completed your apprenticeship you would be considered a qualified tradesman.
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Traineeships
Trainees are trained in a vocational area that may be considered a white, green or blue collared profession. Job roles include office administration, IT and tourism. Once completed a trainee will receive a qualification in their chosen vocational area.
Full time or Part time
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Full Time
Full time apprentices and trainees work and train an average of 38 hours a week and are not considered a casual employee. This means they have ongoing employment.
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Part Time
A Part time apprentice or trainee are also considered a regular employee, continuously employed, working and training no less than 15 hours a week (averaged over a 4 week cycle).
So what apprenticeships or traineeships are currently available with Novaskill?
What is a mature aged apprenticeship?
It doesn’t matter how old you are, commencing a apprenticeship or traineeship is the same for everyone. Novaskill encourages older apprentices and trainees- you provide reliability, life skills and knowledge and maturity. Once you turn 21, you are considered to be a mature aged apprentice/trainee.
Some of your prior life experiences and early learning may provide you with credit and reduce your overall training time via Recognition of prior learning (RPL) or recognition of current competency (RCC).
As a mature age apprentice or trainee, you may earn different wages compared to a young apprentice or trainees. Phone the Fair Work Ombudsman on 13 13 94 to discuss wages.
What is a School Based Apprenticeship/Traineeship?
School-based apprenticeships/traineeships give you a head-start with your careers and earn a wage, by beginning part of your training while still enrolled at school.
School-based apprentices and trainees can undertake an apprenticeship or traineeship as part of their high school studies. Options to do so usually occur in grades 10, 11 and 12. It will impact your school study time table and be considered part of your school curriculum.
You’ll begin the apprenticeships or traineeships part-time and gives you an opportunity to begin paid employment, start off –the-job vocational training and keep going to school. Combining a senior school certificate and a nationally recognised qualification (at Certificate I, II, III, IV, and Diploma or Advanced Diploma level) gives you hands-on industry experience in thousands of trades and qualifications. For more info download the Australian School-Based Apprentice facts sheet.
Still not convinced?
Apprenticeships and Traineeships give you the chance to:
- Earn a wage while you learn
- Gain a nationally recognised qualification
- Develop practical skills specific to the occupation you’re interested in
- Experience training that’s hands-on and flexible
- Potentially access government financial support and other benefits
- Increase your value as a qualified employee
