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Apprenticeships & Traineeships

Hands-on, practical learning experience

Embark on a rewarding journey of learning and growth with apprenticeships in the construction industry.

Overview

What are apprenticeships and traineeships?

Apprenticeships and traineeships offer a blend of classroom learning and hands-on training, allowing you to work with a real employer, earn a wage, and study for a nationally recognised qualification in your chosen construction trade.

Following a competency-based training model, you’ll study at a registered training organisation and complete assessments on-site, endorsed by your employer.

Upon completion, you’ll have official qualifications, skills, and valuable experience to seamlessly transition into the workplace.

School-based vs non-school based

There are two types of apprenticeships and traineeships

1. School-based apprenticeships and traineeships

These are arranged through your school and mean you can 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.

Okay, so what’s the difference?

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.

Get ready

4 things to do before you apply

Choose a trade or field of construction

There are over 60 construction careers available so it’s best to do some research to find which ones you’re most interested in. Have a flick through our list of construction careers and choose one that feels right for you.

Explore Careers

Reach out to your contacts

Have a chat to the people around you – especially anyone you know who works in the trade or field of construction that you’re interested in. Ask them about their experience and any advice they have for starting your career. If you’re still in school, speak with your school's career counsellor or vocational education coordinator about apprenticeship or traineeship opportunities available through your school, or if your school is involved in any Construction Pathways programs to give you exposure to the industry.

Visit a career expo

Career expos are an excellent source of information (not to mention freebies). They are a great place to learn more about different trades and construction jobs and connect you with potential employers. Some regions host expos specifically for jobs in the construction industry – do some digging and find out if there is an event close to you.

Talk to your family

The process of starting your career can be daunting. Parents and caregivers can help support you through the process. Remember that it can be a scary time for them too, so have a chat with them about your options and the benefits of apprenticeships and traineeships, like earning while you learn and the high demand for apprentices and trainees in Queensland!

Got questions?

How do school-based apprenticeships and traineeships work? What support is available for construction apprentices and trainees? How much will I get paid as an apprentice or trainee? How do I apply for an apprenticeship or traineeship?
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