Demystifying traineeships – Part 1
We are often asked the question “so what exactly is a traineeship?” Most of us are aware of what apprenticeships are – that they are generally trade-based and usually completed over a four year period. But there is often confusion in the marketplace as to what traineeships are. So we thought it might be helpful to try and demystify traineeships in a two-part series over this and the next edition of the eNewsletter.
Just like apprenticeships, traineeships consist of structured on-the-job and off-the-job training, however, they differ in that they tend to cover a broader cross-section of industry which can be applied to both blue and white collar industries.
This flexibility means that training can be tailored to the workplace, and in some cases, trainees are able to complete their units of competency at work, rather than having to attend TAFE one day a week. In this instance, a trainer would visit the workplace to conduct assessments.
There are also roles where it works well to put on a trainee in the interim before rolling the trainee into an apprenticeship. It’s just a matter of weighing up the pros and cons of both options and getting advice with consideration to your unique set of requirements.
Samantha Leet at 1300apprentice says “It really does depend on what the host employee’s needs are. For instance, I am currently working with a host employer in the Parks and Garden sector who would like to take on an apprentice but is unsure he will have ongoing work for a period of four years. A solution to this problem is to commence with a Certificate II level traineeship for a 12 month period, which can then be rolled over into an apprenticeship at the end of the 12 months should the host employer’s or trainee’s circumstances change. It is a win/win situation for both parties with flexible options available to both the host employer and the trainee”.
In our next edition we will explore the types of traineeships that are available, and the job types that can be matched to those traineeships. In the meantime, if you have any questions regarding traineeships please give Sam a call on 1300apprentice or 0418 441 570.
