How to Find and Secure an Apprenticeship Opportunity

Key Takeaways

• Start by working out what you enjoy and what work suits you, then narrow down to a few trades or industries.
• Research the training provider and the employer, not only the job title.
• A short, specific resume and cover letter beat a long general one.
• Prepare for the interview with real examples and a few questions of your own.
• Rejection is common. Ask for feedback and keep applying.

Introduction

To find and secure an apprenticeship opportunity, you need to know what you want, where to look and how to present yourself. An apprenticeship is paid work combined with structured training, so you are applying for a job and a course at once. Future1st is a Melbourne group training organisation that recruits, employs and places apprentices and trainees with host businesses in Victoria.

This guide takes you through each step, from choosing a field to settling in once you start. If you are changing careers, read The Ultimate Guide to Adult Apprenticeships as well.

Work Out What You Want

Before you apply, spend time on the question of what suits you.

• List the tasks you enjoy, such as working with your hands, solving problems or helping people.
• Think about the environment. Some people like being outdoors or on site. Others prefer a workshop, an office or a care setting.
• Note what matters to you in a workplace, such as hours, teamwork or room to grow.
• Talk to family, teachers, career advisers or people who work in trades you are curious about.

Apprenticeships cover trades such as plumbing, electrical work and carpentry, and many other fields. Our article on exploring the best apprenticeships can help you compare options.

Research Before You Apply

Choose two or three options and learn about them properly.

• Read what a typical day looks like and what the training involves.
• Find out which qualification you would study and which registered training organisation delivers it.
• Check that the pathway is recognised. The Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority has information on apprenticeships in Victoria.
• Use Apprenticeships Victoria: getting started to understand the process.
• Learn what an Apprentice Connect Australia Provider is, because they support apprentices and employers.
• Go to career events, speak to industry people and ask about their path.

Write an Application That Stands Out

Employers read many applications, so keep yours clear.

Resume

Put the most relevant information first. Include volunteer work, sport, part-time jobs and school projects, because they show reliability and skills that carry over to the job.

Cover letter

Say why you want this trade and this employer. Keep it to a short page. Give one or two specific examples that show you are keen and dependable.

Selection questions

If you are asked to address criteria, use the STAR method: situation, task, action, result. It keeps answers short and concrete.

Online presence

Check that any public profile you have looks professional, because employers sometimes look.

Prepare for the Interview

• Learn about the business and what it does.
• Practise answers to common questions, such as why you want the trade and how you handle a mistake.
• Plan your travel and arrive early.
• Dress for the workplace and bring your documents.
• Prepare questions, such as who will supervise you and how training time is arranged.

After the interview, send a short, polite thank-you message. It shows interest and good manners.

Understand What You Are Signing

An apprenticeship is formalised through a training contract between you and your employer, and in a group training arrangement the group training organisation is your employer. Read the paperwork carefully. Ask about your hours, your training plan, who supervises you and where to go if something goes wrong.

Handle Rejection and Keep Going

Many people apply several times before they succeed.

• Ask for feedback and use it.
• Apply to more than one employer at once.
• Keep building relevant experience through short courses, work experience or volunteering.
• Stay in contact with people you have met.

Make the Most of the First Months

• Be on time, ask questions and take notes.
• Treat feedback as part of learning.
• Set a goal for each month and review it with your supervisor.
• Build good relationships with colleagues and mentors. Read about building a strong apprenticeship team to see what good support looks like.

Related Resources

• The Value of Hiring Trainees as a Talent Pipeline for Your Organisation
• The Ultimate Guide to Adult Apprenticeships: How to Find, Apply, and Succeed in a Mature Age Apprenticeship
• Exploring the Best Apprenticeships and How to Secure Them
• Building a Strong Apprenticeship Team: Tips for Effective Onboarding and Training
• Strategies for Nurturing Talent in Trainees
• Hire an apprentice with Future1st

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find an apprenticeship?

Search job boards and government websites, contact local employers, attend career events and ask a group training organisation about current vacancies.

Do I need experience before I apply?

Not always. Employers look at attitude, reliability and interest. Relevant school subjects, work experience or volunteering help.

Who is my employer in a group training arrangement?

The group training organisation employs the apprentice and places them with a host business. At Future1st, that includes handling payroll and training administration.

What should I do if the placement is not working?

Speak to your supervisor if it is safe, then contact your employer. Future1st field officers visit workplaces and training institutes to monitor progress.

What if I am not sure which trade suits me?

Try short courses, work experience or talks with people in different trades before you commit.

Take the Next Step Toward Your Apprenticeship

Choose a field, research it, apply with care and ask for feedback along the way. Candidates can call Future1st on (03) 9656 9797, and employers who want to host an apprentice can see how to hire an apprentice with Future1st.