Q: What is an apprenticeship or traineeship?

In Australia, apprenticeships or traineeships are a great way to start a new career. They allow people to complete a training plan with an employer and gain a recognised VET qualification through an RTO (registered training organisation) or TAFE training provider while earning an income. 

Workers and employers sign a training contract that ensures the employee is gaining high quality and recognised vocational training. 

Anyone of any age can undertake these incredible career pathways, there are no education-level or entry requirements and they can be taken part-time or full-time. As a result, apprentices and trainees can range from school leavers to elders and people re-entering the workforce to people who have changed their career goals. 

Apprenticeships are used in a range of industries. Qualifications include:

• Hairdressing 
• Automotive
• Information technology
• Plumbing
• Hospitality
• Childcare

And many more. 

Apprenticeships and traineeships are both job training models that combine work experience with vocational study. While they are very similar, there are some subtle differences. For example:

• Apprenticeships can take anywhere from three-four years to complete, while a traineeship can take as little as a few months.
• Apprenticeships are more focused on employment outcomes and meeting demand in industries where traineeships are more suited to short-term demand needs.
• If an employer were to sell their business and have an apprentice, the new buyer is obligated to continue the apprenticeship, whereas a trainee is not guaranteed the same result. 

Visit the Australian Apprenticeships website for more information on apprenticeships, traineeships, vocational education and training, training providers and how you can combine work with study. 

Ready to take on an apprenticeship or traineeship? Find out if you’re eligible for government funding.

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