Get ahead

Your guide to apprenticeships and traineeships

Contents

1 Apprenticeships/traineeships: a great way to start your career

2 Earning money – learning skills
5 Getting an apprenticeship/traineeship
8 Be prepared
8 Do some research
9 Create a personal portfolio
12 Prepare your resume
18 Applications and covering letters
22 Find an employer
29 Starting your apprenticeship/traineeship
32 Contacts
Apprenticeships/traineeships:
aContents
great way to start your career
1
Apprenticeships/traineeships are a great Apprenticeships/traineeships are open to men
way to start a career. They combine practical and women of all ages. Most can be undertaken
experience at work with structured training. As on a full-time or part-time basis – and many can
an apprentice/trainee, you enter into a formal be started at school.
training contract with an employer that leads to All kinds of people, including people with
a nationally recognised qualification. disabilities and from differing cultural
If you’re interested in traditional technical backgrounds, can find an apprenticeship/
trades like bricklaying or cabinet making, then traineeship to suit them.
it’s likely you would consider an apprenticeship. Western Australia makes a distinction between
Traineeships are usually in non-trade areas such apprentices and trainees. However in the
as business, hospitality, process manufacturing Australian
and health. Apprenticeships
Why do an apprenticeship/
You spend most of the time in paid employment, system, all
traineeship?
learning practical skills on the job and putting trainees/
• You get paid while you learn
them into practice. The rest of the time is apprentices
• You get nationally recognised
spent in structured training at TAFE, another are referred to
qualifications
registered training organisation or in the as Australian
• You can start your training
workplace. The training requirements are part of Apprentices.
at school.
your training plan which is negotiated between
your employer, you and your registered training When qualified you can look
organisation. forward to:
• higher pay
Apprenticeships/traineeships are competency
• great job prospects
based. This means you can complete your
• qualifications and skills for
training earlier if you can show you have reached
further education and training.
the skill levels required for your industry.
 Earning money – learning skills
2
As an apprentice/trainee, you’ll earn Earn money and learn
money and learn new skills that can open up
specialist skills
an exciting career.
As a rough guide, minimum apprentice
You enter into a training contract with an
wages vary from $260 to $342 a week in first
employer for the time normally required
year, $342 to $466 in second year and from
to complete the qualification (this is called
$466 to $547 in third year. Adult rates can also
the nominal duration). You generally work
apply and are generally at second year level.
full-time for an employer and train at the same
Minimum trainee wages for full-time trainees
time (this can be on or off the job). Part-time
for a Year 12 school leaver are around $250 a
apprenticeships/traineeships are available
week in the first year.
in most industries.
What’s more, some employers choose to pay
Salary and tax benefits/rebates above the stipulated minimum wage to ensure
they attract the best candidates.
Apprentices/trainees are paid training
wages for the time they spend at work and Find out more:
in training. Wages vary according to the T: Wageline 1300 655 266 (for WA awards)
industry, your age and the stage of the
T: Fair Work Australia 13 13 94
apprenticeship/traineeship. It’s best to check
(for Australian Government awards)
for details about your particular apprenticeship/
traineeship. Your employer can tell you if you W: fwa.gov.au
are covered by the State or Australian industrial
relations system.
 3

Incentives and allowances Costs involved

• I ncentives are available to help reduce the (tuition/materials)
cost of training such as the cost of tools
for some trades and wage top-ups in some
circumstances. If you have to move away from
home you may be eligible for a living away
from home allowance.
Find out more:
T: Australian Apprenticeships Centre 13 38 73
(for information on the full range of
incentives and allowances)
W: australianapprenticeships.gov.au
• I f you need to travel to attend your registered
training organisation you may be eligible for
travel and accommodation allowances.
• Costs of training vary depending on which
apprenticeship/traineeship you undertake,
the registered training organisation you
attend and the tools you need to buy.
• Training in the workplace is the responsibility
of the employer.
• If you are paid under the State Award, you are
responsible for the payment of registered
training organisation fees.
• If you are paid under the Federal Award,
contact Fair Work Australia on 13 13 94 for
information on payment of training fees.

Find out more:

T: ApprentiCentre 13 19 54
(for information and forms)
W: apprenticentre.wa.gov.au

Working conditions
Working conditions vary according to the
apprenticeship/traineeship you are undertaking.
 Earning money – learning skills
4

Skills required
Each apprenticeship/traineeship requires
different skills and attributes. For details on
specific industry and trade requirements see
the list of apprenticeships/traineeships at
apprenticentre.wa.gov.au.
You are expected to:
• apply yourself to all aspects of your training
and make every effort to develop the skills to
gain your qualification.
• be aware of and make a commitment to fulfil
your work responsibilities including taking
care of workplace property and respecting the
rights of other employees in the workplace
• complete required training both at work and
at your registered training organisation.
Your employer is expected to:
• support your training by providing day to day
training and supervision to give you every
opportunity to complete your apprenticeship/
traineeship.
• provide you with time off work to complete
the relevant off the job training if required YOU CAN EARN
(formal training and assessment). MONEY AND LEARN
• Whether undertaken on or off the job, must be SPECIALIST SKILLS.
in paid working time.
• provide a safe working environment and meet
all legal obligations.
Getting an
apprenticeship/traineeship
5

If you have left school If you have industry experience

With more than 80 apprenticeships and 400 If you have extensive industry experience, it will
traineeships on offer, finding the right one can take less time to complete your apprenticeship/
seem quite a challenge. traineeship.
The first step is to do your research and A registered training organisation conducts
decide what industry/trade you are interested an assessment to decide what formal
in. For the full list of apprenticeships/ training is required for you to complete your
traineeships in Western Australia go to apprenticeship/traineeship.
apprenticentre.wa.gov.au.
People already employed by a business
Once you have decided on the apprenticeship/ are able to enter into an apprenticeship/
traineeship you’d like to do, you need to find an traineeship. The employer applies to
employer. There is more information later in this ApprentiCentre for approval.
guide about finding an employer.
When you’ve found a position as an apprentice/
trainee your employer contacts an Australian How do I find an
Apprenticeships Centre (T: 13 38 73) to organise apprenticeship/traineeship?
your training contract. • Do your research and
Pre-apprenticeships find an industry/trade
you want to go in to
Pre-apprenticeship courses take about six
months and the skills you gain may shorten • Find an employer.
the term of a subsequent apprenticeship.
The courses often lead to offers of employment
from employers who are increasingly working
with State Training Providers and other
registered training organisations to find
suitable apprentices. Pre-apprenticeships are
also available to School Apprenticeship Link
Year 11 and 12 students.
 Getting an
apprenticeship/traineeship
6

If you are still at school If you choose a School Apprenticeship Link

If you are in Year 11 or 12 you can do a School
Apprenticeship Link program or a school based
apprenticeship/traineeship. Both options will
give you a training qualification and the Western
Australian Certificate of Education.
Ask a teacher at your school to put you in
contact with your school’s VET coordinator who
can help you select the best training option.
If you get an apprenticeship/traineeship you can
apply to your school to leave before reaching
the school leaving age.
School Apprenticeship Link
There are two School Apprenticeship Link
options in various trades: a family of trades
program which is ideal if you think you know
the industry you’d like to work in but are not
sure which job; and a trade specific pre-
apprenticeship if you are sure of the trade you
would like to work in.
The family of trades School Apprenticeship
Link allows you to try up to four trades within an
industry over 12 months. The pre-apprenticeship
in a trade takes 18 months to complete.
program, you go to school for up to three
days a week and spend the equivalent of one
day at TAFE or a private registered training
organisation and one day in a work placement.
After you have completed your program you
can go on to a school based apprenticeship
if you are still at school or on to a full-time
apprenticeship if you have left school.
School based apprenticeships/traineeships
School based apprenticeships/traineeships
allow you to start an apprenticeship/
traineeship while still at school. You start your
apprenticeship/traineeship on a part-time basis
at school and continue on a part-time or full-
time basis when you leave school.
As a school based apprentice/trainee you and
your parent/guardian enter into a training
contract with your employer. You are also paid
while you learn for the duration of your contract.
 7
Your attendance at school, work and the
registered training organisation is negotiated
with you and your employer, school and
registered training organisation.

How can I start my apprenticeship/

traineeship while still at school?
Apply to start School Apprenticeship Link or
a school based apprenticeship/traineeship at
your school.

Aboriginal school based training

If you are Aboriginal you may do a certificate I
program in Year 10 which prepares you for
the workplace. You can then go on to an
Aboriginal school based apprenticeship/
traineeship for Years 11 and 12 (see school based
apprenticeships/traineeships above).

Find out more:

W: apprenticentre.wa.gov.au
(details all options for training at school)
 Be prepared
8

Step 1: Do some research Even if you are not offered an apprenticeship/

traineeship directly through your work
Talk with teachers, career advisers and family
experience, your employer may be willing to be a
and friends. Talk with people in the industry
referee or, better still, may know other potential
and arrange work experience. You might like
employers. Your work
to telephone the Career Centre on 13 23 98 and
experience may also
speak with one of the helpful staff.
help you gain entry to There are a few simple
If you prefer to research on your own, there a pre-apprenticeship. steps you can follow to
are a number of websites to help you find get an apprenticeship/
When you have
information: traineeship:
completed your
• apprenticentre.wa.gov.au research and 1 Do some research
• jobsearch.gov.au have found an about apprenticeships/
• myfuture.edu.au apprenticeship/ traineeships.
• workplace.gov.au. traineeship you and 2 Prepare your application
your employer select and resume.
What types of apprenticeships/traineeships
a registered training 3 Find an employer willing
are available?
organisation to to employ you.
There are more than 480 apprenticeships/
provide your training.
traineeships in Western Australia.
Your employer
For the complete list check out
contacts an Australian Work experience gives you:
apprenticentre.wa.gov.au.
Apprenticeships • hands on experience
Get some work experience Centre to guide you • some idea on how much
Work experience is a great way of gaining through the sign-up you will like the work
valuable experience and insight into the industry process and help you • a valuable addition to
and area of work you are interested in. complete the training your resume
contract. • a chance of being offered
employment in the future.
Be prepared
9

STEP 2: Create a • Resume: This is a formal document with

information about yourself and your
personal portfolio
experiences at work and school.
A portfolio is evidence of your experience, • Record of community service/volunteer
skills and achievements which you can work: This usually means a letter from your
use in interviews when applying for an supervisor.
apprenticeship/traineeship. It doesn’t matter • Work/school reports: Include copies of these.
where you developed the experience, skills and • Educational achievements: This is a brief
achievements – they can be at school or in your description of what you have done at school
private life outside school, such as hobbies and so far, including extracurricular activities and
volunteer work. any prizes or awards
Your personal portfolio can include the you may have won.
TIP
following: • Newspaper articles
A personal portfolio is
• Career personal/student learning plan: Write featuring you: Include
a must at interviews.
a few sentences explaining where you want to copies of these.
go with your career or your life. • Letters of
• Self-assessment records: Check yourself appreciation: These can be from employers
against the requirements of the job for and other people for whom you have worked
which you want to get an apprenticeship/ (even unpaid work).
traineeship.
• Activities and projects you are currently
doing: This is a description of any projects
and activities relevant to the apprenticeship/
traineeship of your choice.
• Work and learning samples: Include examples,
photographs, records of things you are doing
at school, at work or as a hobby that are
relevant to the apprenticeship/traineeship
you want.
 Be prepared
10
How to present your portfolio • Include photocopies of references,
• Provide an introduction and table of contents. qualifications and other documents
• Choose work samples that relate to the skills • Put your documents in plastic sleeves.
required for the apprenticeship/traineeship. • Unless you are asked specifically, do not hand
• Get a teacher or parent to comment on write the documents in the portfolio – type
the content and design to see if it can them using only one or two font styles.
be improved. • Use simple fonts like Arial as they are easier
• Rehearse using your portfolio by explaining to read.
to a friend, teacher or parent what is in it • Keep a consistent format.
and how it is relevant to the apprenticeship/
traineeship.
TIP
When you visit an employer
either to ask to be taken on
as an apprentice/trainee or
for a job interview, leave a
copy of your portfolio. To help
the employer remember you,
include a recent photograph
of yourself.
 11
Examples of evidence you could include in your portfolio for an apprenticeship in hairdressing:

Your resume listing

your work history. References from
Your learning/career
people you have
plan that shows you
worked for who can
are working towards Photographs of identify your creative
an apprenticeship in hairstyles you skills and experience
hairdressing. have done for family in customer service.
and friends.

A P P R E N T I C E S H I P G OA L : H A I R D R E S S I N G

Examples of skills that you can

relate to hairdressing,
eg good communication skills,
customer service.
Work experience or structured
workplace learning reports and
pages from your log book.
List jobs you have done that may
relate to working in hairdressing
– customer service, stock control,
product knowledge, general salon
duties, sterilising or maintaining
equipment (get this signed
by your supervisor).
 Be prepared
12

Step 3: Prepare your resume • Other qualifications: List units of competency

you have completed as part of training in
A resume is something you use to sell
school or outside school.
yourself to an employer when you apply for an
• Awards: List awards, certificates and
apprenticeship/traineeship. It is a summary of
statements of attainment you have
what you have achieved and who you are, and
received from your school and registered
focuses on what you want the employer to know.
training organisations.
Your resume should include the following: • Interests/hobbies: List particularly
• Contact details: Include your name, address, those where you are required to work in
telephone number and email address. a team or where they are relevant to the
• Your skills: Include examples of your skills apprenticeship/traineeship.
that relate directly to the apprenticeship/ • Referees: Include their name, title, name
traineeship – remember generic skills such and address of the organisation, and
as communication skills, ability to work with contact details (telephone numbers and
others and in teams, problem solving skills, email addresses).
ability to work under pressure, ability to accept
responsibility, and computing skills.
• Work history: List any work you have done
while at school, such as work experience
and structured workplace learning and any
part-time work outside school. Start with
the most recent experience. Include the job
title, employer’s name and location, dates
of experience/employment and a brief
description of your responsibilities, duties
and achievements.
• Education: Include the name(s) of your TIP
school(s), the dates you attended and A neat, well presented resume
the subjects you have completed or are can make a big impression.
undertaking.
 13

How can I prepare my resume quickly and professionally?

Resume templates are a great way to professionally lay out your resume and can be
downloaded from the website. For example you can go into a Microsoft Word document on
your computer, select new and search online for a suitable resume template. Alternatively
you can access a resume template at jobguide.thegoodguides.com.au, careerone.com.au,
seek.com.au, jobaccess.gov.au or jobjuice.com.au. When you go to these sites click on resume
template/builder on the front page or search for resume template. If using a template online,
check the format, spelling, grammar and punctuation.

Helpful hints when writing your resume: • Never hand write your resume. It should be
• Keep it brief and to the point. typed in a basic font such as Arial and printed
• Keep your paragraphs short and space on white or a light coloured A4 size paper.
them out. • Your resume must be easy to read. Check
• Make the headings clear. scanned, faxed and emailed documents that
• Write about what you have done in the past, you attach to make sure they are clear.
what you can do now and what you would like
to do in the future.
• Use positive, action words – this shows you
are confident.
• Focus on your experience, skills and
achievements that relate to the
apprenticeship/traineeship.
• Get another person who knows you well to
check your resume. If possible, find someone
in the area in which you would like your
apprenticeship/traineeship.
 Be prepared
prepared
Arial, bold, 11 pt)
RESUME (Headings: capitals / Font:

14 Jason William Giles (Font: Arial,

11 pt)
6153
98 Reynolds Road, Applecross WA
Sample resume for an Telephone: 9316 8763
Mobile: 0498 378 444
apprentice chef.
CAREER GOAL by 2017.
by 2011 and own my own restaurant
To win WA Apprentice of the Year
full sente nces where appro priate.)
(Use

SKILL SUMMARY bring to the workforce creative flair

ng food in a restaurant setting. I
I have skills in preparing and cooki
and a pleasant personality.
TION
SKILLS RELEVANT TO THE POSI points, making it easier for the
are a great way to abbreviate your
• Skilled in using knives (Bullet points
person reading your resume.)
• Knowledge of food orders my own work area and equipment
a clean work environment including
• Well developed skills in having
• Able to work under pressure
• Good hand-eye coordination
• Attention to detail
ctions.
• Able and willing to follow instru
S AND ABILITIES
OTHER TRANSFERABLE SKILL
• Good communication skills
workplace
• Patience and confidence in the
• Punctuality and dependability
work.
• Willingness to learn and do shift

EMPLOYMENT HISTORY
first.)
(List your most recent experience

Relevant experiences:

2008
Workplace Learning
Chico’s Restaurant, Applecross

Duties:
ables and desserts
• Prepared garnishes, salad, veget
• Grilled steaks
ger
• Checked food orders with the Mana
• Cleaned stoves.

2007
Work experience
Reno’s Cafe, Bullcreek

Duties:
• Cleaned equipment
• Customer service
n
• Placed customer order with kitche
• Served behind the counter.
 Other experiences

2006
Cook
Pizza Den, Melville
15
Duties:
• Prepared toppings for pizzas
• Measured the ingredients for the
pizza dough
• Assembled pizzas as they were
ordered
• Cooked the pizzas and cut them
into portions for the customer.
2006
Work experience
John’s Supermarket, Garden City

Duties:
• Stacked the shelves
• Cleaned the floors in the delica
tessen and bakery sections
• Assisted customers to find items
.
EDUCATION
(List the qualification you obtained
at school/highest level qualification
completed that may be relevant to and any other courses you have
the position.)
2008
Year 12
Applecross Senior High School

HOBBIES
I have many creative and/or intera
ctive hobbies, including cooking,
football and cricket.
REFEREES:
(A referee/reference is someone
who can provide information about
workplace. Always speak with your your skills and abilities in the
referee and gain their approval before
listing them on your resume.)
Mr Raymond Wilson
Relationship: Former supervisor
Chico’s Restaurant, Applecross
Telephone: 9364 5973

Ms Rebecca Thomas
Relationship: Former supervisor
Reno’s Cafe, Bullcreek
Telephone: 9316 4658
 Be prepared
prepared
Resume (Headings font: Arial, bold, 24 pt)
16 bold, 18 pt)
Personal Details (Sub headings: Arial,
Sample resume for an Name Sam Coombs
apprenticeship as an Address 32 Smith Street
White Gum Valley WA 6162
electrician Phone 9386 7362
Mobile 041 294 5811
Email coombss@hotmail.com
The template used here
is from the website. Employment History
11 pt)
Career Objectives (Font: Arial, bold, g the electrical industry.
organisation dedicated to transformin
I would like to work for an innovative e dedic ation, loyalt y and willingness to learn and go
isatio n includ
Attributes that I can bring to the organ
11 pt)
beyond the call of duty. (Font: Arial,

Skills and knowledge

Skills and knowledge include:
• ability to read electrical diagrams
r tools
• use a range of hand and powe
• work on my own and in teams
organisational skills
• efficient time management and
• good customer service skills.

Experience

May 2008 – Current

Myles Electrics
Structured Workplace Learning

Responsibilities:
to workplace requirements
• maintained work area according ing manufacturer’s and/or
using and operating equipment follow
• applied correct procedures when
trainer’s instructions and Health guidelines
according to Occupational Safety
• applied safe working practices nmen t
attitud e to the work enviro
• demonstrated a positive
ually or as part of a team
• completed work related tasks individ
workplace
• used language appropriate to the
nt skills.
• applied effective time manageme

Jan 2008 – May 2008

Southside Electronics
Work experience

Responsibilities:
on shelves
• organised the electrical products
ical items
• assisted in a stock take of electr
mer of electrical products
• provided some advice to custo
• helped staff with orders.

Jun 2007 – Dec 2007

Rally West
ience
Mechanic’s Assistant – work exper
 Responsibilities:
• followed instructions
• worked as a team member to comp
lete tasks
• helped to check electrical conne
ctions in cars
Jan 2007 – June 2007 17
Kwinana Raceway
Assistant

Responsibilities:
• organised race meetings
• followed instructions
• worked as a team member to comp
lete tasks. TIP
Education If using a template from a
(List the qualification you obtained
at school/highest level qualification
completed that may be relevant to
the position.)
and any other courses you have
website check the format as
Qualifications well as content contained
2007
Year 12 within the resume for
South Fremantle Senior High Schoo
l spelling, grammar and
Subjects completed
Completed the following subjects:
punctuation.
Vocational English
Mathematics in Practice
Work Studies
Electronic Servicing
Physics
Computer Fundamentals
Structured Workplace Learning.

Awards
(List any awards you have receiv
ed.)
South Fremantle Senior High Schoo
l Top Student – Year 11, Electrical
Kwinana Raceway – Most Enthu Foundations, 2006
siastic Volunteer, 2007
Rally West – Certificate of Appre
ciation for Work Completed, 2008

Interests
(List your hobbies here.)
Speedway and football

References
(A reference or referee is someone
who can provide information about
workplace. Always speak with your your skills and abilities in the
referee and gain their approval before
listing them on your resume.)
Mr Bill Myles – Manager
Myles Electrics
Telephone number: 9376 4850

Mr Fred Jones – Head of Departmen

t, Design of Technology
South Fremantle Senior High Schoo
l
Telephone number: 9337 3833
 Be prepared
18
Step 4: Applications and
covering letters
At some stage, you will want to send your
resume to prospective employers.
When you send out a resume you need a
covering letter to explain what you are sending
and why. The letter should stand out and make
the employer want to read your resume.
What makes a good covering letter?
• No spelling or typing mistakes: Your spelling
and the way the letter is written is the
employer’s first impression of you and you
want that first impression to be a good one.
• Address it to the person who hires the
apprentices/trainees in the company: Make
sure the person’s name is spelt correctly and
the title is correct. You may need to telephone
the company and check their details.
• Write it in your own words so it sounds
like you.
• Include something about the company and
the industry: This shows you have done some
research and are interested in the company.
• Use terms and phrases that are meaningful to
the employer: Use the information you have
researched on the company, the industry, the
job and the apprenticeship/traineeship.
• Have someone read it
to check for grammar, TIP
spelling, content and Take the time to write a
style: This can be good covering letter.
your teacher, a family
member or friend.
What makes a bad covering letter?
• A long-winded letter: The employer loses
interest and may throw it in the bin.
• Repeating your resume: The purpose of the
letter is to introduce yourself, explain why you
are sending the resume, why you want the job
and how well suited you are to it.
• Not researching the company: A lack of
knowledge about the company will not
impress the employer.
• Sending a standardised covering letter:
Standardised letters are obvious to
employers and may not make a good
impression.
• Focusing on your personal traits rather than
your professional skills: Be specific about
your knowledge and skills that relate to the
apprenticeship/traineeship.
• Using first names: This might put the
employer off as it is unprofessional.
• Failing to check your work: Have someone
look at your covering letter to make sure it
reads well.

• Failing to check your spelling: Spelling
mistakes will not impress an employer,
especially if you misspell either the employer
or company name. Spell check on the
computer is not reliable so have someone
check your spelling.
Tips on writing a good covering letter
1 Create a professional letterhead. Include
your name and address, use another font
and type size and you have created a
more professional letter. You may want to
design your own simple letterhead using a
computer program like Publisher or go into
Microsoft Word to download a template.
2 Personalise your letter. Make sure you
address it to the right person using their
correct name and title, eg Dear Mr Wilson.
Using the name of the firm in the letter
shows it is written specifically for this
employer.
3 If using a heading in your letter, make sure
it identifies the job you are applying for and
any additional information.
4 Use the opening paragraph to explain why
you are writing. Include how you found out
about the job.
19
5 Use the second paragraph to expand on
your skills, awards and qualifications.
This may be the paragraph that decides
whether you get an interview or not. The
more you match these with the employer’s
needs, the more likely you are to get an
interview. List your key achievements, skills
and knowledge. Use this to show what you
have achieved. You want the employer to
remember you.
6 Use the third paragraph to tell the
reader you know something about their
organisation and the industry. You may
also want to compliment your potential
employer by mentioning the organisation. It
shows this letter is to them and no one else.
7 Show that you are the best person for the
position by indicating that you have the
skills required by the employer.
8 List enclosed information at the end.
9 Close strongly suggesting the next action.
Take control and suggest the next contact,
either by proposing a date for an interview
or indicating you will ring them within the
next seven days.
Look at the two samples of covering letters over
the page, where these tips have been used.
 Be prepared
prepared
Joe Ferrino (Create a letterhead.)
55 Morley Drive
MORLEY WA 6062
20

5 May 2009

to
Mr Barry Wilson need to contact the organisation
person doing the hiring. You may
Manager (Address the letter to the
addressed to.)
find out who the letter needs to be
Precision Cabinet Makers
15 Petra Street
BICTON WA 6153

letter.)
Dear Mr Wilson (Personalise the
tised in The West Australian on
on of apprentice cabinet maker adver
I would like to apply for the positi
writing.)
2 May 2009. (Explain why you are
l has helped me gain skills and
workplace learning while at schoo
My work experience and structured a gift vouch er as a reward for my good work.
et makin g. I receiv ed
knowledge associated with cabin was very positive and, because of
my
the manager on my performance
The feedback from customers to g and my good communication skills, the customers
cuttin g and joinin
high level of accuracy in measuring, s.
ed the cabinet maker to their friend
for whom I did work have recommend
cations.)
(Talk about your skills and qualifi
looking for eager young people with
in the area, I thought you might be
As you are a new cabinet maker ity and help estab lish Precision Cabinet Makers
d your work capac
some cabinet making skills to expan yer’s busin ess.)
ledge of the emplo
in the area. (Expand on your know
skills in this industry. I am also very
on because I have gained valuable
I am the best person for this positi and in a team settin g. (Explain why you are the
well indep enden tly
enthusiastic and creative and work
best person for the position.)
e
this position. (Mention your resum
resume outlining my suitability for
Please find enclosed a copy of the ation. )
within your applic
and any other information contained
ntice cabinet maker at Precision
to discuss my suitability as an appre
I would welcome the opportunity on 041 222 5841. I will contact you within the next
can be conta cted
Cabinet Makers at an interview and action in your closing statement.)
(Sugg est the next
10 days to discuss my application.

Yours sincerely
(Insert your signature here.)

Joe Ferrino (Write your name in full.)

 Mary Elias
15 Wroy Street
WEMBLEY WA 6063

5 May 2009
21
Mr Brian Smiles (Personalise your
letter.)
Manager
Wembley Dental Repairs
445 Cambridge Street
WEMBLEY WA 6014

Dear Mr Smiles

RE: SECURING AN APPRENTIC

ESHIP AS A DENTAL TECHNICIA
the subject line.) N (State the reason for your letter
in

I am writing to you to secure an appre

nticeship as a dental technician with
position was advertised recently Wembley Dental Repairs. This
on the Seek website. (Explain the
reason for your letter.)
I have completed Industrial Arts,
Biology and Human Biology in Year
completed work experience at the 12 at school and have recently
Dentures Repair Clinic in Bedford.
I prepared moulds to take dental During my work experience
impressions and helped prepare
prostheses. I also had the opportunity wax replicas and polish dental
to interact with the clinic’s clients
their dentures/prostheses. I enjoy when dropping off and picking up
ed working at the clinic and found
(Provide information about your qualifi the work interesting and rewarding.
cations and skills.)

I realise that in considering my applic

ation for an apprenticeship you would
who can do the job, but also show not only want someone
a commitment to a career as a denta
have described in my attached resum l technician. I hope that what I
e will show how I can be of servic
(Demonstrate your knowledge about e to Wembley Dental Repairs.
the organisation and its needs.)

I am the best person for this positi

on because I have excellent comm
and people feel comfortable with unication skills, I am personable
me, I learn things quickly and I take
position and explain why you are pride in my work. (Think about the
the best person for the job.)

I would like very much to meet with

you to discuss the opportunity of
Wembley Dental Repairs. I will call getting an apprenticeship with
you within the next 10 days to discu
(Suggest the next action in your ss my application with you.
closing statement.)

Kind regards
(Insert your signature here.)

Mary Elias (Write your name in full.)

 Find an employer
22
The right job for you is out there somewhere. Ask around
The trick is finding it. You may already know TIP
someone in your area Register as a job seeker
Looking for an employer
of interest who may be on ApprentiCentre’s
• Go online. Jobs Board.
willing to take you on.
• Use the internet to search job vacancy
Tell your friends and
sites and research companies you are
family you’re looking for
interested in to find further information
an apprenticeship/traineeship. Ask them to ask
and possibly vacancies.
around; you’ll be surprised how many people
You can register as a job seeker on connect with employers this way.
ApprentiCentre‘s Jobs Board. It’s where Newspapers
employers advertise for apprentices/trainees
Check out newspapers for apprentice/trainee
online. Jobs Board lists lots of apprenticeship/
vacancies. Not every business advertises
traineeship positions in many areas ranging
positions this way but it is worthwhile to see
from mechanic and boilermaker apprenticeships
those that do. You may also come across a
to child care and administration traineeships.
vacancy in an area that you hadn’t previously
Different types of apprenticeships/traineeships
considered.
are on offer all the time. Register with Jobs
Board at apprenticentre.wa.gov.au and you Group training organisations
will be notified by email or SMS when suitable Contact a group training organisation which
vacancies are available. employs apprentices/trainees and places
Some other websites that list job them with host employers. Lots of companies
vacancies include: employ apprentices/trainees through these
organisations. Visit apprenticentre.wa.gov.au for
• careerone.com.au
a list of group training organisations.
• seek.com.au
• jobs.wa.gov.au
(lists WA Government jobs only).

Direct contact
You can contact a business directly by visiting in
person or by telephoning. Be well prepared with
your research before attempting this method.
Tips for directly contacting employers include
the following:
• Be well presented, not just in appearance but
with what you are going to say if visiting a
prospective employer.
• Be polite and plan what you are going to say
before telephoning an employer.
• Have pen and paper ready to note any details
from an employer.
• Have an up to date copy of your resume ready
to leave with an employer or send in.
• Ask the prospective employer to keep
your resume on file. Let the employer know
you will give them a follow-up call a couple
of weeks later.
• Remember to be confident and ask questions.
If you would like more tips about how to do
this and advice on developing a resume
telephone the Workforce Development Centre
on 13 64 64.
23
There are several ways you can find an
employer including:
• go online
• ask friends and relatives
• check out the employment section in
the newspaper
• contact a group training organisation
• contact potential employers directly.
Sending out your resume
Send relevant businesses a covering letter and
your resume.
Yellow Pages
Use the Yellow Pages to find businesses in
your area of interest. The Yellow Pages gives
you a good idea of the number of companies
in particular industries. You may also discover
other opportunities in related fields.
For instance, you may be interested in
mechanics which includes heavy machinery,
aviation, motorcycle, marine and small
engine mechanics.
 Find an employer
24
The job interview
This is where you get to make a great impression
to help you get an apprenticeship/traineeship by:
• being prepared
• developing your job interview skills
• evaluating your performance after the
interview.
Preparing yourself
You need to be prepared and organised
to make your interview a success. Here are
some suggestions.
• Find out about the company, the
apprenticeship/traineeship and what is
involved. What would you be doing? You need
to know as much as possible about what an
apprentice/trainee does in the job and where
it fits in the organisation.
• What does the company do? Find out as
much as you can about what the company
makes, sells or offers. The more you know and
understand the better prepared you will be.
• Who are they? Find out about the employer,
where the business is located; telephone to
find out more. Ask for the marketing or public
relations area; look on the internet, contact
local council offices or your local library.
Know what to take to the interview
• Take your resume.
• Take your career portfolio pre-prepared to
target the type of apprenticeship/traineeship
you want.
• Ask if you will have to take any
application tests.
Know how to get there
• Double check the address of the business.
• Make sure you know how to get to the building.
• Check bus and train timetables or parking
so you know you will arrive with at least 10
minutes to spare.
• If in doubt, do a trial run – go to the company
beforehand and time yourself getting there.
Decide what to wear
• Have your clothes ready the night before.
• Be clean, neat and tidy – hair brushed, clean
fingernails and clean shoes.
• Dress to suit the occasion – no scruffy jeans
or thongs.
Know what to say
Practise the answers to questions the employer
may ask with family or friends. Typical questions
an employer may ask include:
• What parts of this job interest you the most?
• What are your special skills and abilities?
 25
• What is your experience in this type of work?
• What do you know about our company?
• Why do you think you would be suitable as
an apprentice/trainee?
• As an apprentice/trainee, what would you
have to offer us?
• Which of your school subjects interested
you most?
• How would you manage study and work while
undertaking your apprenticeship/traineeship?
• What do you know about an apprenticeship/
traineeship in this area?
• What are your long term career plans?
• How do you cope with new situations
or procedures?
• How do you feel about working as part of
a team?
• Would you be prepared to work overtime or
on weekends if required?
Know what to ask
Prepare some questions you can ask the
employer. Questions about the apprenticeship/
traineeship will impress the employer.
 Find an employer
26
Some questions you may ask include: • Greet the interviewer(s) and introduce
• Where and with whom would I be working? yourself.
• What are some of the jobs that I will be doing • Smile and be ready to shake hands.
as an apprentice/trainee? • Enter the interviewer’s office and wait to take
• What will be my hours of work? the seat which is offered to you.
• If I get accepted as an apprentice/trainee, • Maintain eye contact as this shows interest
when would I start? and demonstrates confidence.
• How will the training and study be planned? • Present a positive attitude whenever you
• Where will I do my training? speak or answer questions.
• What is the next step in this process? • Be aware of your body language. Your
• When will I know if I am successful in gaining mannerisms, gestures, body movements,
an apprenticeship/traineeship? posture, eye contact and tone of voice all
communicate as much as your words.
Helpful tips to calm your nerves
It can be very scary, especially if you are not
feeling very confident, to go to an interview. You
may be interviewed by one person or by a panel
of two or three people. It is easier if you are well
prepared.
• Arrive 10 minutes early to gather your
thoughts and check your appearance.
• Introduce yourself to the receptionist. Give
your name, time of the appointment and name
of the person who is interviewing you. Speak
clearly and politely. The receptionist will tell
you where to wait. Thank the receptionist and
wait quietly.

• Answer questions honestly and politely.
Consider your answers carefully and
speak clearly.
• Ask the interviewer to repeat or explain a
question if you do not understand it.
• Always try to turn the question to your
advantage. This is your opportunity to show
that the skills, interests and experience
you have meet the requirements for the
apprenticeship/traineeship.
• When given the opportunity, ask job
related questions that are NOT about salary
or benefits.
• At the end of the interview, restate your
interest in becoming an apprentice/
trainee and politely thank the employer/
interviewer(s) by name.
After the interview
Each interview is not a win or lose situation.
It is an opportunity for you to learn and gain
experience for the next time. Usually, you
will not know straightaway whether you have
been successful in the interview. You will be
contacted later by telephone or mail.
• When you get home, note down the questions
you were asked and the answers you gave.
27
• Look at how you went. Think about the things
you did well and the things you could improve
next time.
• Discuss the interview with a friend, teacher
or parent. Ask them how you could improve
your performance.
• If you have not heard from the employer
after a reasonable time, it is a good idea
to follow up and ask if they have made a
decision. It shows you are still interested
in becoming an apprentice/trainee. Ask for
feedback from the interview; it will help you
with future interviews.
• You may also like to ask the interviewer for
suggestions on how to improve your interview
technique or areas you could improve to
better your chances at the next interview.
If you find your interview to be unsuccessful,
look at the experience positively. It was a
learning opportunity for you.
 Find an employer
28
If you don’t get the job • Did I appear keen and interested?
Consider whether you need to improve your • Did I know enough about the company?
letter of application, your resume or your • Did I speak clearly when answering questions?
performance at the interview. • Were my references suitable?
• Was I late for the interview?
Some questions you can ask yourself are:
Be persistent! The more applications for
• Did I present my portfolio well and relate it to
apprenticeships/traineeships you write, the
the apprenticeship/traineeship?
more interviews you have – and the better you
• Was my appearance too casual or untidy?
will perform.
• Was I too forward or too timid?
Starting your
apprenticeship/traineeship
Signing the training contract
Once you have an apprenticeship/traineeship
position, you or your employer contacts an
Australian Apprenticeships Centre within
21 days of you starting work to organise the
signing of your training contract. This is
required by law to protect your rights and
those of the employer.
A training contract is a legally binding contract
between you, your employer and your parent/
carer (where required). Your training contract is
for a nominal term which is the expected time it
will take you to complete your apprenticeship/
traineeship. It outlines the rights and
responsibilities for you and your employer.
Your training contract is forwarded to
ApprentiCentre for registration of your
apprenticeship/traineeship.
ApprentiCentre writes to you advising
you of the approval of your apprenticeship/
traineeship.
29
Probation
You are on probation for one to three months
from the start date depending on the length of
the apprenticeship/traineeship. Traineeships
of 12 months duration have a one month
probation period; traineeships/apprenticeships
of two years have two months probation; and
apprenticeships of three years or more have
three months probation. During the probation
period the apprenticeship/traineeship can be
cancelled by either party.
Training arrangements
At this stage you enrol in training at a
TAFE college or other registered training
organisation for the training component of the
apprenticeship/traineeship. Your registered
training organisation develops a training plan
with you and your employer.
Your training plan shows:
• what you will be trained in
• who will be training you
• how the training will be done
• where the training will take place
• arrangements for you to attend training
off the job
• who will do your assessment
• how and where you will be assessed.
 Starting your
apprenticeship/traineeship
30
Your registered training organisation may
provide you with a training record journal which
you and your employer can use to record your
progress and achievements according to your
training plan. It helps you, your employer and the
registered training organisation discuss your
progress on and off the job.
It is your responsibility to keep this book
updated at least every three months.
Tips for being successful as an
apprentice/trainee:
• Be enthusiastic, polite and keen at work.
• Take care of workplace property
and materials.
• Respect the rights of other employees in
the workplace.
• Keep any information that you get from
the employer confidential and do not tell
or show to anyone else without the
employer’s permission.
• Make all reasonable efforts to gain the skills
outlined in your training plan.
• Attend the training sessions that are off the
job. If you don’t attend, it will be reported to
your employer.
• Take advantage of supervised workplace
activities and learning opportunities.
• Keep your training record journal up to date.
• Seek help if you are having problems at work
or with your training.
Support during your
apprenticeship/traineeship
Dealing with problems
If problems arise with your employer, deal
with them straight away. If you need advice
or help contact ApprentiCentre’s industry
specialists – they can help you resolve any
issues you may have.
Changing the apprenticeship/traineeship
arrangements
You can make changes during your
apprenticeship/traineeship. For example you
may need to change your registered training
organisation. ApprentiCentre can help you with
these changes.

Cancelling an apprenticeship/traineeship
If you feel you want to cancel your
apprenticeship/traineeship, talk with
ApprentiCentre first. They can help you resolve
the issues with your employer. Your employer is
not legally able to cancel your training contract
without approval from ApprentiCentre.
31
Suspension of apprenticeship/traineeship
You and your employer may agree to suspend
the training contract for a period of time,
eg medical or personal reasons. After the
suspension period ends the training contract
will resume.
 Contacts
32

Organisations to help you Registered training organisations

ApprentiCentre Registered training organisations provide

training and assess apprentices/trainees.
ApprentiCentre registers training contracts
They negotiate training plans with the
and gives advice and support to employers,
employer and apprentice/trainee, provide
apprentices/trainees and parents/carers
the training and assessment and issue the
through every stage of the apprenticeship/
qualifications. Registered training organisations
traineeship process. It is part of the Department
include State Training Providers and private
of Training and Workforce Development
registered training organisations.
with staff who help with all aspects of
apprenticeships/traineeships including: Group training organisations

• your rights and obligations Group training organisations employ

• training options apprentices/trainees and place them with host
• problem solving, counselling and help employers. They are ideal for employers who do
with disputes not have sufficient work to employ a person for
• managing contracts including registering, the full term of an apprenticeship/traineeship,
changing and suspending contracts. or who are unable to provide all aspects of the
required training. Group training organisations
Australian Apprenticeships Centres
may operate in a defined geographical area or
Australian Apprenticeships Centres are specialise in a particular industry.
contracted by the Australian Government.
They help complete and lodge the training
contract. They also provide general information
on apprenticeships/traineeships and process
claims for employer incentives and apprentice/
trainee allowances.
 33
ApprentiCentre Australian Apprenticeships Centres – metropolitan
T: 13 19 54 AMA Services Pty Ltd
E: apprenticentre@dtwd.wa.gov.au Nedlands
Goldfields T: 9273 3042
T: 9091 3560 MEGT (Australia) Ltd
Great Southern Perth
T: 9842 0600 T: 9263 7888
Kimberley Mission Australia Apprenticeships Solutions Team
T: 9192 1029 Perth
Midwest T: 1300 626 227
T: 9964 1022 CCI Employfast
Peel East Perth, Joondalup and Rockingham
T: 9581 1154 T: 1800 224 224

Pilbara Australian Apprenticeships Centres – regional

T: 9185 1946
The Apprenticeship and Traineeship Company
South West Albany T: 9841 7740
T: 9791 1966 Bunbury T: 9725 6565
Wheatbelt Busselton T: 9754 3001
T: 9622 7999 Mandurah T: 9586 9000
CCI Employfast
Albany, Bunbury, Broome, Esperance, Geraldton,
Kalgoorlie, Karratha, Kununurra, Mandurah,
Northam, South Hedland
T: 1800 224 224
 Contacts
34
Group training organisations – metropolitan Future Staff Pty Ltd
Aboriginal Employment Strategy Ltd (financial services industry)
(community services, health, business, mining North Perth T: 1300 559 666
and retail) Australian Medical Association
North Perth T: 6365 5160 (including aged care and business
ABN Group administration)
(most building trades) Nedlands T: 9273 3000
Osborne Park T: 9200 4500 HIA Apprentices Ltd
AFL Sports Ready (most building trades)
(most sport and recreation traineeships) Osborne Park T: 9492 9200
Subiaco T: 9382 8333 Hospitality Group Training WA Inc
Apprenticeships Australia (most hospitality trades)
(all industries) West Perth T: 9481 1602
East Perth T: 9437 0111 MEGT
Choice One Pty Ltd (all industries)
(metal, wood & glass) T: 9263 7888
Perth T: 9215 3888 Motor Industry Training Association
Directions of WA Inc
(all industries) (most vehicle industry trades)
Midland T: 9274 8502 Balcatta T: 9233 9800

Excelior Pty Ltd MPA Skills

(telecommunications) (most plumbing and painting trades)
Perth T: 1300 790 467 Maylands T: 9471 6600

Electrical Group Training Ltd My Freight Career Pty Ltd

(most electrical trades) (transport and distribution)
Balcatta T: 6241 6100 Belmont T: 9477 4633
 35
Skilled Apprenticeship Services Group training organisations – regional
(metals and mining, railway operations, ABN Training
process manufacturing) Bunbury T: 9792 0555
Welshpool T: 9229 8222
Apprenticeships Australia
Skill Hire Broome
(most building trades) T: 9192 9615
Belmont T: 9477 1900
Bunbury
SMYL Community Services T: 9791 5288
(including child care, retail, IT, horticulture,
Darwin
building and construction, youth work,
T: 8982 8100
business administration)
Fremantle T: 9430 4921 Esperance
T: 9071 6467
Summit Group Training
(most building trades) Kalgoorlie
Myaree T: 9317 0177 T: 9091 3249
The Apprentice and Traineeship Co Karratha
(all industries) T: 9144 2140
Osborne Park T: 9204 4566 Newman
The West Australian Group Training T: 9175 3230
Scheme Inc Paraburdoo & Tom Price
(most building trades and hairdressing) T: 9143 3342
Wangara T: 9408 0025
Port Hedland
Workplace Employment T: 9172 1899
and Training Services Inc
ATC Work Smart
(most furniture and textile trades)
Albany T: 9841 7740
Victoria Park T: 9362 4122
 Contacts
36
Directions The Apprentice and Traineeship Co
Northam Bunbury
T: 9622 6500 T: 9725 6565
Narrogin Busselton
T: 9881 4183 T: 9754 3001
Merredin Mandurah
T: 9041 2322 T: 9586 9000
Moora The Apprentice and Traineeship Co
T: 9653 1320 – Mid West
M: 0407 475 619 Geraldton
Kalgoorlie T: 9923 1400
T: 9022 4299
Indian Ocean Group Training Association W: apprenticentre.wa.gov.au
Christmas Island T: 9164 7220 E: apprenticentre@dtwd.wa.gov.au
Kimberley Group Training Inc T: 13 19 54
Kununurra T: 9168 3808 T: 08 9318 5400

Skill Hire Pty Ltd

Albany
T: 9892 7444
F: 9892 7455
Bunbury
T: 9722 4222
Esperance
T: 9076 2000
Geraldton
T: 9921 0999
TITLE: Get ahead: Your guide to apprenticeships and traineeships
SCIS NO: 1467543
ISBN: 978 0 7307 4368 2

© Department of Training and Workforce Development 2011

Reproduction of this work in whole or part for educational purposes, within

an educational institution and on condition that it is not offered for sale, is
permitted by the Department of Training and Workforce Development.

This material is available on request in appropriate alternative formats.

Further information please contact:

ApprentiCentre
Telephone: 13 19 54
Facsimile: 9238 2633
Email: apprenticentre@dtwd.wa.gov.au
URL: apprenticentre.wa.gov.au
w: apprenticentre.wa.gov.au
e: apprenticentre@dtwd.wa.gov.au
t: 13 19 54

T22/March/11