What are apprenticeships and traineeships and what’s involved?

If you like the idea of hands-on practical work and learning on the job an apprenticeship or traineeship is a career path that will suit you.

Apprenticeships and traineeships are more than just jobs - they're a great way to set yourself up for the career you want.

You end up with a qualification that is recognised in Australia and internationally. It gives you a big advantage in the job market, with both practical experience and the training that employers are looking for.

Apprenticeships and traineeships are very similar, both offer training options, on-the-job, and off-the-job or a combination of both.

The main differences are:

Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships are generally in traditional technical trades and normally take up to four years to complete (e.g. mechanic, hairdresser, chef, carpenter, brick layer)

Traineeships

Traineeships are usually in non-trade areas and are usually a one to four year program(e.g. real estate, finance, retail, multimedia, local government)

Apprenticeships and traineeships are 'competency based'. This means it may be possible to complete your training sooner if you reach the skill level required.