Adult Apprentices Present Growing Opportunity

Employing an apprentice doesn’t mean you have to take on someone straight out of school. In fact, research shows there are a growing number of individuals aged 25 years and over who are commencing a trade apprenticeship, and many of them are completing their study in just two years!

Studies conducted by the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) have revealed that, over the last three years, an increasing number of people over 25 have begun undertaking apprenticeships. In addition, the NCVER found that the over-45 year-old age group is one of the fastest growing segments of new apprenticeship commencements. This increase in mature-age apprenticeships is due in part to the changing face of Australia’s manufacturing industry. Many workers who find themselves out of a job due to factory closures are looking for alternative ways to re-enter the workforce, and apprenticeships are proving increasingly popular.

As well as presenting a growing opportunity for businesses looking for new employees, adult apprentices are more likely to complete their training ahead of schedule. According to NCVER, trade apprenticeship completions are shrinking in duration, as more apprentices claim Recognised Prior Learning (RPL) credits. Apprentices who have previously completed study or have prior work experience may be eligible to claim RPL, reducing the number of subjects and/or assessments they need to undertake as part of their qualification. There are obvious advantages in hiring apprentices who qualify faster:

–          The apprentice spends less time away from the worksite attending training

–          The sooner the apprentice is qualified the more productive they will be

–          Your existing staff spend less time ‘picking up the slack’ while the apprentice becomes proficient.

But there are a myriad of other benefits available to businesses employing adult apprentices:

–          Adult apprentices bring a higher level of work and life experience than their younger counterparts. For example, they may already display the customer service skills your business values or have a good understanding of workplace safety requirements.

–          They may have existing qualifications that complement the business, such as related trade certifications or financial or business knowledge.

–          Older candidates may find it easier to connect with your existing employees, because they are at similar stages of life.

–          Mature age apprentices understand the long-term benefit of having up-to-date skills and the associated increase in job and career security. This makes them more reliable and committed to their study.

–          Just like younger candidates, there are financial incentives available for businesses employing older apprentices.

If you think your business could benefit from a mature-age apprentice, give the experts at The Apprenticeship Community a call today, or visit www.apprenticeshipcommunity.com.au

*Source: Research Report: Adult trade apprentices: exploring the significance of recognition of prior learning and skill sets for earlier completion, Hargreaves, J. and Blomberg, D., NCVER, 2015.