What's the difference between an apprentice and a trainee?
Apprenticeships and traineeships combine training with working in a real job, for a real boss, with a real wage.
There are two main differences between an apprentice and a trainee. An apprentice is trained in a skilled trade and upon successful completion will become a qualified tradesperson. Trades such as electrical, plumbing, cabinet-making and automotive mechanics are just a few that are a part of the apprenticeship scheme.
A trainee is someone who is being trained in a vocational area. These vocational areas include, but are not limited to, office administration, information technology and hospitality. Upon completion of a traineeship you will be eligible to receive a minimum of a certificate II in your chosen vocational area.
A school-based apprentice is trained in a skilled trade, and upon successful completion, will become a qualified tradesperson. Students may convert to a full-time or part-time apprenticeship when they finish school to allow them to complete the qualification.
Upon completion of a school-based traineeship, students will receive a minimum of a Certificate II in their chosen vocational area.
More information:
- Australian Apprenticeships - Australian Government apprenticeships website