Applying for an apprenticeship or traineeship is pretty much the same as applying for other jobs. You'll find heaps of information about job applications in our getting a job section, including downloadable templates for writing a CV or cover letter, but here's a brief run-down on the basics.
Write a cover letter
Unless you're specifically told not to include one, your application should include a cover letter. Your cover letter should:
- explain your interest in the job (and how you're suited to it)
- encourage the reader to read your resume.
See our how to write a cover letter page for tips on how to put together cover letters, as well as links to sample cover letters you can download and use to create your own.
Highlight your experience in your resume
Your resume needs to highlight any related subjects you studied at school and any relevant work experience. If you don't have any work experience, you could include school, community or sports projects you've been involved in instead.
See our how to write a resume page for more information, including links to templates you can download and use to create your own resume.
Get some referees or references
A referee is someone an employer can contact to discuss how well-suited you are for an apprenticeship or traineeship. Your referee could be one of your teachers, a family friend or your current employer.
References are written letters of recommendation that you can include as part of your application. The kind of people you can get to write a reference for you are the same kind of people you can ask to be your referee.
For more information about finding a referee or someone who can write you a reference, see our how to choose a referee page.
Avoid rookie mistakes
The most important thing when applying for any kind of job is to make your application as professional as possible. That means things like:
- making sure the application is addressed to the right person
- avoiding spelling and grammatical errors
- carefully reading and following ALL of the instructions in the job ad
- getting your application in by the due date (or earlier if you can).
For more tips about mistakes to avoid in a job application, see our how to write a resume and how to write a cover letter pages.
Get prepared for an interview
If everything goes well, you'll hopefully get called in for an interview to talk about the apprenticeship or traineeship. If this happens you need to be prepared. A job interview is your best chance prove that taking you on is worth the time and money.
In an interview you need show that you:
- are the right person for the job
- know about the company and the industry
- have some relevant experience
- are interested and enthusiastic.
Our job interviews section has more information on how to get ready for an interview, how to behave when being interviewed, and what kind of questions you might be asked.
Links
AusAppPathways
Explore careers that can begin through an apprenticeship or traineeship. Search for jobs and training and get advice on apprentice and trainee rights.
Apprenticeships and Traineeships
The Victorian Government has a range of guides and resources about apprenticeships and traineeships in Victoria.
Australian Apprenticeships
The Federal Government's apprenticeships and traineeships scheme.