Apprenticeships and traineeships combine practical work with structured training, which may be on or off the job. After training is completed, a nationally recognised qualification and a Certificate of Completion is awarded. Apprenticeships and traineeships are now available in over 500 occupations in an increasing range of industries.
Apprenticeships and traineeships are a legally binding training arrangement between an employer and an apprentice or trainee that combines structured training with paid fulltime or part-time employment. School-based students can start an apprenticeship or traineeship while still at school, working one or two days per week (School Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships).
Generally, an apprenticeship can take three to four years, whereas a traineeship is usually only one year, but can vary up to two years for higher level qualifications. However, an apprentice or trainee can be signed off and receive a certificate of completion once they are deemed competent by their employer and registered training organisation.
Apprenticeships are more common in areas such as building and construction, plumbing, manufacturing and electrical trades, as well as occupations such as chefs and hairdressers. Traineeships are more common in industries such as retail and hospitality, business services, information technology and community services.
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