1. What is an Apprenticeship?
2. Who can undertake an Apprenticeship?
3. How do I apply for an apprenticeship?
4. General Information / FAQ

1. What is an apprenticeship?

• An apprenticeship is a job that combines paid employment with the structured training required to gain a trade qualification.  It is a competency-based contract between an employer and an employee that generally takes about four years to complete. It provides both the skills and necessary accreditation requisite for working in a specific trade area. Over the course of their training an apprentice will be required to undertake practical and theoretical tests within a classroom and workplace environment. Popular trades offering apprenticeships include fabrication, diesel fitting, carpentry, painting, electrical, plumbing, bricklaying and tiling. For more information on apprenticeships in general, please visit the Queensland Government’s Department of Education and Training website: www.det.qld.gov.au

Return to Top

2. Who can undertake an Apprenticeship?

• Apprenticeships are open to anyone over the age of fifteen with a Year Ten pass in Maths and English. No previous training or experience in the chosen field is necessary to start an apprenticeship. There are usually minimum education requirements for apprenticeships and traineeships to help ensure the potential apprentice or trainee will succeed in completing all training. The level of education requirements will depend on the trade or industry and most TAFE campuses offer numeracy and literacy courses required to reach the minimum level necessary.  It is important to remember that apprenticeships are targeted towards youth to nurture skills and increase the number of skilled tradespeople. Mature-aged applicants are also encouraged to apply as Adult Apprenticeships are a good pathway into a trade.

Return to Top

3.How do I apply for an apprenticeship?

If you are interested in becoming trade qualified, please contact GAGAL to discuss the possibilities of starting an apprenticeship. If you already have an idea of what trade you would like to take on, we suggest that you undertake work experience during the school holidays in your chosen trade area to gain an understanding of the trade.

Return to Top

4. General Information / FAQ

• GAGAL will ensure continued support to the Apprentice and will visit on site every 6 to 10 weeks.
  • GAGAL is the Legal Employer and therefore it is their responsibility to pay;
  • correct award wages
  • any on site additions
  • superannuation
  • annual leave
  • leave loading
  • workers compensation
  • training costs
  • tools as required under government legislations
  • All apprentices must undertake an aptitude test prior to being accepted. The aptitude test is only part of the process, usually a formal interview is required and it is from this interview that the Field Officers gain an insight into the applicant’s personality and abilities. This also allows the applicant an opportunity to ask any questions he or she may have regarding the apprenticeship.
  • A full induction will be undertaken for successful apprentices prior to commencement.

  Return to Top