Employing an Apprentice or Trainee
Before employing an apprentice or trainee, ask yourself the following questions:
- Has my business reached a stage of growth to support a new employee with little or no experience?
- If so, what type of employee do I need? How much can I afford to pay?
- What position do I need to fill to address my business needs?
- What level of skills and experience do I expect the apprentice or trainee to attain by the end of their training?
Once you have determined the type of position you want filled and the skills required there are a number of ways to find an apprentice or trainee.
Do it Yourself
Recruiting an apprentice or trainee is similar to recruiting other employees. You could use advertising or word of mouth to find the right candidate, or any other approach of your normal hiring procedure.
Australian Apprenticeships Centres
Australian Apprenticeships Centres are the experts on apprenticeships and traineeships and are ideal first ports of call for those seeking advice and help or a general overview of apprenticeships and traineeships.
Group Training Organisation
Group Training Organisations (GTOs) employ apprentices and trainees and hire them out to 'host employers'. GTOs operate across Australia - some specialise in servicing a particular industry, while others work across all industries located in their region.
Existing Employees
An existing employee can still commence an apprenticeship or traineeship and, in most cases, receive Commonwealth funding.