An apprenticeship or traineeship is an employment based training arrangement where an apprentice or trainee has the opportunity to combine practical experience in the workplace with structured training.
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A training contract is a contract signed by the employer and the apprentice/trainee to undertake training in a specified course. It outlines the rights and responsibilities of both parties and is legally binding.
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There is a huge variety of apprenticeships and traineeships available now. They include training in Aquaculture, Arts, Automotive, Building & Construction, Child Care, Clerical & Office Administration, Communications & Information Technology, Community Services & Health, Electrical &Electronics, Engineering & Metals, Food Processing, Forestry, Furnishings, Horticulture & Rural, Local Government, Printing, Public Administration, Retail, Small Business, Sport & Recreation, Textile & Clothing, Tourism & Hospitality, Transport & Storage.
See 'Approved apprenticeships/traineeships in Tasmania'
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The term of the training contract varies depending on the apprenticeship or traineeship you choose. It also depends on who you choose as an apprentice or trainee and what past experience they bring to the job.
Generally an apprenticeship is 4 years, and most traineeships are 12 months.
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There are various options available to find a suitable apprentice or trainee. Some are:
- advertise in the newspaper.
- contact one of the many Job Network organisations.
- contact an Australian Apprenticeships Centre in Tasmania
- approach a local college or the Tasmanian Polytechnic to see if they have anyone suitable. Many training organisations provide prevocational or pre-employment courses where students already have some very useful skills.
- have you had someone on work experience who was suitable?
- what about a relative? You can employ a member of your family.
- contact a Group Training Company. They will hire out a suitable apprentice or trainee, take care of all the wages and associated costs, and you pay them an administration fee. This is often a good option when you¿re not sure if you can commit to a long term like a 4 year apprenticeship.
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The minimum age for trainees and apprentices entering into a training contract is sixteen years at the date of signing the training contract, except where:
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formal exemption from school has been issued by the Secretary, Department of Education; or
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the trainee is undertaking a school-based traineeship; or
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the trainee has completed year 10; or
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the trainee otherwise has the approval of Tasmanian Training Agreements Committee
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A good option is to choose someone who has already shown an interest, such as completing a prevocational or pre-employment course or has done work experience whilst at school.
You also have a probationary period built into the training contract. Apprenticeships usually have a 3 month probation period. Traineeships usually have a 1 month probationary period. The longer the commitment the longer the trial time you¿re allowed.
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Most apprenticeships and traineeships require basic numeracy and literacy skills. Completion of year 10 is usually the required standard, however, an interest or flair for the particular industry is also a major consideration.
The most important thing is to make sure that the apprentice or trainee can cope with the course. If you choose someone who doesn¿t have the required literacy and numeracy skills there are options to assist the person eg: remedial training, literacy & numeracy training, support & assistance from you.
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Depending on the particular apprenticeship or traineeship you choose, training can occur either:
- completely on the job
- combination of on & off the job
When you choose a training provider to deliver the structured training for your apprentice or trainee, they will negotiate this with you. For instance, some training may be better handled on the job because you have the equipment in your workplace. Some traineeships are designed to be delivered completely on the job.
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Both the Australian and state governments provide financial assistance to the employer. This can be either in the form of a grant, wage subsidy or payroll tax rebate.
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If you are unsure of how much to pay an apprentice or trainee call Fair Work Australia on 13 13 94 or visit www.fwa.gov.au/.
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Depending on what the problem is, there are a number of options. If the concern is:
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The Electrical Licensing Board has published Guidelines for the licensing of electrical contractors and electrical technicians who suffer from colour confusion, commonly called colour blindness. These guidelines may be found on the Department of Infrastructure, Energy and Resources website. It is recommended you read these Guidelines if considering engaging electrical apprentices."
Please contact Skills Tasmania on 1800 655 846 for further advice and assistance.
Apprenticeships & traineeships
Completing an apprenticeship/traineeship
