Types of apprenticeships and traineeships
Full-time and part-time
Full-time apprentices and trainees usually work and train from 36 to 38 hours a week.
Part-time apprentices and trainees work and train no less than 15 hours each week, averaged over a 4-week cycle.
Apprenticeships can take up to 4 years to complete (double for part-time), while traineeships vary in length from 12 months to 3 years (double for part-time).
The length of apprenticeships and traineeships depends on when all parties agree the apprentice or trainee is competent, regardless of the time spent training.
Get started as an apprentice or trainee.
Employ an apprentice or trainee.
School-based
Students can start a school-based apprenticeship or traineeship as part of their high school studies (generally in Year 11 and 12).
This allows them to work towards nationally recognised qualifications while spending time at school, work and training.
They work out a flexible program with their school so they can work towards an apprenticeship or traineeship and still receive a Queensland Certificate of Education and Overall Position (OP) score (if eligible).
Get started as a school-based apprentice or trainee.
Employ a school-based apprentice or trainee.
Adult and mature age
Apprenticeships aren't just for young people—adults can also participate.
Skills and experience gained previously can count towards an apprenticeship or traineeship. These life skills are invaluable and highly sought after by employers.
Read about recognition of prior learning.
More information:
- Australian Apprenticeships—financial support for adult Australian apprentices over 25.
- Australian Apprenticeships Access Program—supports job seekers over 45 to gain the necessary skills to find and keep an apprenticeship or traineeship.
- National Apprenticeships Program—the Advanced Entry Adult Apprenticeship Scheme is an innovative alternative for talented Australians with extensive trade skills and experience.
Queensland Government apprenticeships and traineeships
We offer full-time traineeships and school-based apprenticeships or traineeships each year in:
- government agencies (including state government departments)
- local councils
- statutory authorities
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Councils
- not-for-profit community organisations.
Search for vacancies (you will need to select the 'Apprenticeships & Traineeships' category) for more information on applying for one of these positions.
