12 Apr 2017

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again, Australia needs more apprentices. We’re currently experiencing a national skills shortage, so tradies are in high demand.

There are a few misconceptions about apprenticeships (which might explain why we need more young people to become apprentices). One of the most common myths is that it’s hard to find one and get started. This isn’t really the case though–just ask QLD provider BUSY At Work, who can help you find an apprenticeship. Or if you want more info on apprenticeships, check out AATIS–they have plenty of info on getting started.

Here are some other common myths about getting an apprenticeship or traineeship and the facts that prove them wrong. 

1. Myth: if you haven’t got any experience in the industry, employers don’t want you.

While it’s probably easier to get an apprenticeship if you already have experience, you don’t actually need to have experience before you start. Apprenticeships and traineeships are entry-level jobs after all, so you get training on the job, and off the job at TAFE or through your external training provider.

2. Myth: employers only want people with certain education qualifications (ATAR/Degree/Year 10?).

An apprenticeship or traineeship provides on and off the job training which are both relevant to the job you’re doing. Depending on what you want to do, it might not matter whether you finished high school or did any extra curricular training. If you’re unsure if you’re up to standard to start an apprenticeship you can do an aptitude test to see where you’re at.

3. Myth: apprenticeships are for people that want to spend all day outside doing heavy work.

There are over 600 qualifications to choose from, so you’re not restricted by certain settings. You can be an apprentice chef, hairdresser, baker or designer. Your apprenticeship might see you working in an office, a kitchen, a salon, out on a harbour or on a construction site.

4. Myth: if you start the training before finding an employer, it can help you get an apprenticeship job.

Actually, when you do an apprenticeship, you do the training as you go. If you do the training beforehand, in some cases it can make you ineligible for an apprenticeship. Check out AATI’s pre-apprenticeship course finder to find the courses that lead into apprenticeships without compromising your eligibility.

5. Myth: a uni degree will make you more employable than an apprenticeship.

Actually, since we have a skills shortage, apprentices and trainees are in higher demand than ever. University graduates, on the other hand, are struggling to find employment, with only 68% finding jobs within four months of graduating.

The moral of the story? Basically, we reckon you’re more than capable of getting an apprenticeship or traineeship. Employers just want someone with a good attitude, who gets to work on time and is willing to learn. To get some more information about apprenticeships, check out the Australian Apprenticeships and Traineeships Information site. And if you think you might be ready to get started and you’re located in QLD, you can hit up BUSY At Work and they’ll hook you up with some sweet opportunities.