An apprenticeship or traineeship is a training contract between an employer and an employee that lets the apprentice or trainee learn skills for a specific job or trade.
What kind of jobs can I do?
Lots of jobs can be done through an apprenticeship or traineeship. They include:
- trades, such as construction, carpentry, electrical or plumbing
- hairdressing
- automotive repair
- floristry
- cook or chef.
What's the difference between an apprenticeship and a traineeship?
Some industries offer both traineeships and apprenticeships, but others offer only apprenticeships. The main difference between the two is the level of job security.
In an apprenticeship:
- an employer agrees to employ you and support your training for the period of the apprenticeship
- you agree to follow instruction and attend workplace-based and off-the-job training
- if your employer sells the business, your new employer must continue your apprenticeship
- once the probationary period of the apprenticeship is over, all parties have to agree for your contract to be cancelled.
In a traineeship:
- an employer agrees to employ you and support your training for the period of the traineeship
- you agree to follow instruction and attend structured training
- if the business is sold, the new employer doesn't have to keep you on as a trainee
- either the employer or trainee can cancel the contract without mutual agreement.
The Victorian Registrations and Qualifications Authority has heaps more information about apprenticeships and traineeships.
How to get started
Depending on what stage you’re at in your studies, and what kind job you're interested, there are a few different pathways for doing an apprenticeships or traineeships in Victoria:
- school-based or head start apprenticeships and traineeships (SBAT)
- pre-apprenticeship
- Big Build apprenticeships and traineeships
- mainstream apprenticeships and traineeships
Learn more on Apprenticeships Victoria's how to get started page or contact the TAFE and Training Line.
Links
Apprenticeships Victoria
Learn more about being doing an apprenticeship or traineeship in Victoria.
Australian Apprenticeships
The Federal Government's apprenticeships and traineeships scheme (formerly New Apprenticeships).
TAFE and Training Line
A Victorian Government service offering help and free advice about TAFE and training courses, qualifications and training providers.
AusAppPathways
Free tool to help students and jobseekers explore careers that can begin through an apprenticeship or traineeship. Search for jobs and training and get advice on apprentice and trainee rights.