What to expect

Starting an apprenticeship of traineeship can feel daunting, especially when you’re still learning about your job or industry. But if you understand what you need to do and what’s expected of you, it can make things much easier. Take time to learn your role, ask questions, and get help when needed. This will help you feel more confident and allow you to start improving your skills.

Know what you're signing up for

Becoming an apprentice or trainee means you don’t have to wait to start your career. You’re able to work, study, get paid and begin earning your qualification from day one. There are big rewards involved. But it can be challenging, too.

Here are some of the things you’re signing up for when you start an apprenticeship or traineeship:

  • You have to turn up to work on time, every working day, including early starts.
  • In some industries, you may need to work long hours, and your shifts might change often. This could include working late at night or very early in the morning, which can be challenging to adjust to. It’s important to be prepared for this depending on the type of job or career you choose.
  • When you begin a new job, it might feel both physically and mentally difficult, especially at the start. This is because you’re learning new skills and adapting to different tasks and responsibilities. However, as you practise and gain more experience, it will become easier to manage over time.
  • You will have to follow instructions from your supervisor, and be careful with any equipment, materials or other valuable equipment around the workplace. For more information visit our supervision guideline.
  • Some apprentices will work in high-risk environments and will need to learn safe work practices to protect themselves and the people they work with, this might involve additional training.
  • Sometimes you’ll be doing and learning new things every day. Sometimes you’ll be working on repetitive tasks.
  • You have to turn up and put effort into off-the-job training. It’s up to you to get the most out of this formal study requirement.
  • You will need to balance study with on-the-job training. You’ll need to manage your time well and be organised to get everything done.
  • Ask for help when you need it. If you are struggling with TAFE or on-the-job training, talk about it with your supervisor or with your trainer who can connect you to learning support services. You can also chat with an Apprenticeship Support Officer or the Apprentice Helpdesk.
  • Life outside your apprenticeship or traineeship matters, too. You’ll need to prioritise rest, exercise, hobbies, spending time with friends and family, and looking after yourself.

Remember, your apprenticeship or traineeship is all about gaining the skills to succeed in your career. Put in the hours and put in the effort. There are rewarding pay-offs for completing your qualification.

To find out more about what it’s really like being an apprentice or trainee, check out our Inspirational stories.

Students at RTO facility.

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