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What is apprenticeship?Apprenticeship is a hands-on training program for people who want to work in a skilled trade and learning by doing. The apprentice (the person seeking apprenticeship training) enters into an agreement with an employer. About 90% of the apprenticeship training is provided in the workplace by the employer. The remainder involves classroom instruction on theory, which is usually given at a local community college or through another qualified training organization. Why should I become an apprentice?Apprenticeship training provides access to well-paying jobs that demand a high level of skills, judgment and creativity. The demand for skilled continues to increase, with top performers in some skilled trades earning more than $40,000 a year. Many skilled workers use their skills and experience as stepping stones, towards careers in management, while many others have gone into business for themselves. Can anyone become an apprentice?A high school education with a strong foundation in math, sciences and communications is important to success as an apprentice. How can I become an apprentice?A person who wants to become an apprentice must first find an employer who wants to hire an apprentice. Then either the trainee or the employer must contact a training consultant at the closest Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities office or call 1-888-JOBGROW. The training consultant will meet the trainee and the employer at the workplace to assess the employer’s ability to train. Once the consultant determines that a high standard of training can be provided, the trainee and the employer sign an apprenticeship contract, which registers the trainee as an apprentice, and training begins. How long does it take to train as an apprentice?The length of time an apprenticeship takes varies, depending on the trade. What does it cost to become an apprentice?Apprentices and skilled workers pay fees for certain services. For details, talk to a training consultant at a Ministry of Training, Colleges, and Universities apprenticeship office. Can a high school student become an apprentice?Yes. The Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program gives students who are at least 16 years old and who have completed Grade 10 the opportunity to complete high school while working part-time as a registered apprentice. Students who are interested in the program should contact their guidance counsellor, their technical director or the nearest apprenticeship office. What happens when an apprentice has completed training?Apprentices must prove to their employer that they are competent in the skills described in the industry-set standards established for the skilled trade. Once an apprentice has demonstrated these skills and completed the required on-the-job and classroom training, the apprentice can then write an exam for certification. A candidate must obtain a minimum score of 60% to pass. Apprentices who pass are granted both a Certificate of Apprenticeship and a Certificate of Qualification, issued by the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities. These certificates state that the apprentice has developed the skills and knowledge which meet the standards set by industry for skilled workers in that trade. Can a skilled worker find work anywhere in Canada?Skilled workers who have received their training in Ontario can work anywhere in Ontario can work anywhere in the province. Agreements between the provinces and territories allow skilled workers in certain trades to work anywhere in Canada. Training consultants at the nearest apprenticeship office can provide more information. |
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Depending on the terms of the contract with the employer, an apprentice could receive a regular wage throughout the training period. A great opportunity to earn, while you learn!