Apprenticeships - what are they?

Apprenticeships [what are they?]

Apprenticeships... it’s probably a term you’ve heard of before, but there’s often a bit of confusion about what an apprenticeship really is. Basically, an apprenticeship describes training where you can achieve a national qualification while you work, so you’re employed as an apprentice and learn a 'trade' while you are working. Best of all, you earn as you learn [as your employer pays you a wage].

What does it involve?

If you want to do a mix of practical hands-on learning along with classroom study – then an apprenticeship is for you. Throughout your apprenticeship you’ll be learning 'on-the-job', as you carry out normal, everyday tasks in the workplace alongside your qualified workmates and 'off-the-job', as you attend night school, block courses, or learn through correspondence.

What you learn will be assessed against unit standards. Each unit standard covers the skills and knowledge you need to do a specific aspect of the job. Once you’ve achieved all the unit standards that make up the qualification you’ve completed your apprenticeship – and that’s when you get your National Certificate [and usually a pay rise to match].

How much does it cost?

Money, money, money…it's a big consideration when thinking about further study. What's great about an apprenticeship is that you ‘earn as you learn’. Your employer pays you a wage while you're training, which means you don't run up a huge student debt!
The only 'fixed cost' involved in an apprenticeship is the annual training management fee, which is usually picked up by your employer. Off-job learning costs vary, depending on what, how and where you study.