Hands-on, practical learning experience
Embark on a rewarding journey of learning and growth with apprenticeships in the construction industry.
What are apprenticeships and traineeships?
Apprenticeships and traineeships combine classroom learning with on-the-job training, where you’ll work for a real boss, at a real job, and earn a real wage – all while studying towards a nationally recognised qualification in your chosen trade or field of construction.
Apprenticeships and traineeships (which are sometimes both called ‘Australian Apprenticeships’) work on a ‘competency-based training’ model – which means you’ll study at a registered training organisation (RTO) and complete your assessments onsite at your workplace, signed off by your employer.
Once you’ve completed your apprenticeship or traineeship, you’ll have the official qualifications, skills, and years of experience to move straight into the workforce.
There are two types of apprenticeships and traineeships
1. School-based apprenticeships and traineeships
These are arranged through your school and allow you to start your apprenticeship or traineeship alongside studying for your Queensland Certificate of Education and / or Australian Tertiary Admission Rank. Students can start a school-based apprenticeship or traineeship from Year 10 onwards.
2. Non-school based apprenticeships and traineeships
These are for people no longer attending school and are organised directly through an employer that is willing to take you on as an apprentice or trainee. These can be completed either full-time or part-time.
Apprenticeships vs traineeships
Apprenticeships and traineeships might seem similar, but there are some key differences. Both apprenticeships and traineeships offer an amazing opportunity to earn while you learn, and they can set you up for a successful career in the construction industry.
Apprenticeships
Traineeships
Outcome
You will be a qualified
tradesperson (like an electrician, plumber or cabinet-maker)
Outcome
You will be skilled in a vocation (like a pipelayer, concreter, rigger)
Duration
Non-school based:
3-4 years full-time/8 years part-time
School-based:
2 years at school, plus 2-3 years full-time after school
Duration
Non-school based:
1-2 years full-time/2-4 years part-time
School-based:
2 years
Working hours
Non-school based:
38+ hours per week full-time (includes time spent working and learning)
School-based:
7.5+ hours per week (work only)
Working hours
Non-school based:
38+ hours per week full-time (includes time spent working and learning)
School-based:
7.5+ hours per week (work only)
The above information has been sourced from this Queensland Government article: Compare different types of apprenticeships and traineeships.