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Call us on 0800 222 733Modern Apprenticeships
Modern Apprenticeships are one form of workplace training. They're designed for people aged between 16 and 21.
What does a Modern Apprenticeship involve?
As a Modern Apprentice you will have to:
- attend all courses that are part of the apprenticeship – these may be block courses, evening courses or day release classes, and are offered by a polytechnic or other education provider
- complete off-the-job assessments, which are part of the polytechnic or private training establishment courses
- complete on-the-job assessments, such as showing you can lay carpet, to gain your Level 3 or 4 national certificate.
Can I do a Modern Apprenticeship?
To become a Modern Apprentice you need to:
- be between 16 and 21 years old when you start the apprenticeship
- make sure the industry that you're interested in offers Modern Apprenticeships (32 of about 40 industry training organisations offer Modern Apprenticeships)
- meet the entry requirements for the apprenticeship. This varies by industry, so you'll need to check with the relevant industry training organisation or a Modern Apprenticeship co-ordinator to find out.
What are the benefits of a Modern Apprenticeship?
As a Modern Apprentice you:
- can earn money as you learn.
- gain professional and practical skills
- gain one or more Level 3 or Level 4 national certificates, depending on the programme and industry you are in
- are supported by a Modern Apprenticeship co-ordinator, who guides you through the apprenticeship.
What does a Modern Apprenticeship cost?
Your costs will be minimal. Course fees are kept down because Modern Apprenticeships are subsidised. However, you may have to pay for course-related costs for NZQA registration, training materials and the support from the ITO.
Modern Apprenticeship fees vary and the best way to find out about your fees is to talk to your employer, Modern Apprenticeship co-ordinator, or ITO.
"It really is earn as you learn. Our fees are only $650. The Government subsidises them by $2,500 – it’s a pretty good deal."
Jonathan Newby, Horticulture Worker and Apprentice
What qualification will I get?
The qualification you get at the end of the apprenticeship depends on your chosen industry. It will usually be a national certificate at Levels 3 and 4, such as a National Certificate in Seafood (Level 3 or 4) or a National Certificate in Automotive Engineering (Level 4).
Your qualification will take between two and four years to finish.