01 Mar 2017

‘Straya needs more apprentices. So, you ask, what does that have to do with me? Well, there’s a national skills shortage in this country, and while the rate of new apprentices keeps dropping, wages in the trades are increasing. This means that if you’re willing to get involved, there’s more money, more job security and more opportunities for new apprentices.

Whether you’re into fixing cars, building houses, cutting hair, or something else entirely, earning a trade could be an attractive prospect for the future.

If you’ve got an inkling that you might want to start a trade or traineeship one day, you should check out BUSY At Work’s school-based apprenticeships and traineeships. Here’s the deal: you get to start your trade while you’re still at school, which means you get paid while earning a recognised qualification. Still not sure? Here are some reasons to consider it…

1. It’s a smooth path into an apprenticeship

Just like with a new job or a degree, starting an apprenticeship can be a pretty intimidating prospect. However, if you’ve already completed a school-based apprenticeship or traineeship, you’re going to have an easier time transitioning into your chosen field. It’s basically a qualification that will give you a head start.

2. The apprenticeship will take less time to complete

Because you started the apprenticeship at school, you’re able to fast track your way through it. This means that you’ll be fully qualified sooner and earning a decent wage. It’s just a faster way of getting it done.

3. It opens up options (even if it’s ultimately not what you end up doing)

 A school-based apprenticeship or traineeship can lead to all kinds of opportunities, especially if you’re learning about something that you’re genuinely interested in. You might, for example, complete a school-based apprenticeship in construction, only to discover that you actually want to take the next step and study civil engineering at university.

4. Earn while you learn

At university, you study for at least 3 years before you get a chance to make any money in your chosen field. With a trade, you start getting paid straight away. Of course, it’s not all about money, but an apprenticeship is generally a more financially sensible option.

5. Gain the skills to transition out of school

You might complete your school-based apprenticeship or traineeship and then end up in that trade for many years to come. Alternatively, you might get an understanding of the trade and decide that it isn’t for you. These are both positive outcomes. Whether you pursue the trade or not, a school-based apprenticeship or traineeship can help you a lot with the transition out of school and into the big, wide world.  Trust us, it’s pretty weird out here.