Apprenticeships are key to helping young people get skilled up for a future in the trades. When they’re starting out, the Apprenticeship Training Trust (ATT), working alongside host trade businesses, really makes a difference in these new tradies’ lives. But getting an apprenticeship right takes a bit of planning. Here’s a heads-up for your business if you’re thinking about taking on an apprentice.
Understanding EWRB standards
Before taking on an apprentice in the electrical trade, there are a few things set out by the Electrical Workers Registration Board (EWRB) that you need think about. Undertaking supervision of apprentices is an important role and there are criteria around the licensed supervisors you have available to look after and oversee your apprentices. The EWRB website (erb.govt.nz) has several resources and guides that cover the practical and legal implications for supervisors. Our team at ATT can talk you through all these considerations and guide you throughout the apprenticeship process.
Evaluating your apprentice candidate
Understanding the background of an apprentice candidate is key – what makes them tick, how do they learn? Look at what they have done so far in terms of both their work experience and academic achievements. This helps in determining how much practical training will be required and in what areas. ATT ensures that your apprentice candidate is professionally selected, tested and reference checked and will support the apprentice with all their off-job work, but the apprenticeship will be more successful if you work with your ATT area manager to understand how the apprentice learns and what areas they are stronger in.
Team dynamics and personality fit
Another key aspect is team fit. How your apprentice interacts with others, their character and overall attitude and how well they will fit into your existing team, is especially important and makes a real impact in the work environment. While many skills can be taught, ensuring a personality fit is essential for a harmonious workplace. You want to know that your apprentice is reliable and will turn up to work consistently – showing dedication and respect for the job and your team. ATT helps match your requirements with an apprentice candidate that will best fit with your business and current team, so it helps to give us as much information as you can when you are first talking to ATT about what you need.
Looking towards the future
If you know your apprentice’s aspirations after they qualify, then this can help you in training them. You can make sure the skills you are teaching them not only match your needs, but also their career goals. This helps make the apprenticeship more relevant and interesting for your apprentice. It can make all the difference in the way they approach their apprenticeship journey. You will usually want to invest in an apprentice with the hope that they’ll remain with the company for at least a few years after completing their apprenticeship. This future loyalty is good for both your business and the apprentice and gives them stability and more chances to grow.
By taking these factors into account, you can not only improve the success rate of their apprenticeship but also contribute positively to the career development of the next generation of tradespeople. You’ll help create a skilled workforce that’s ready to meet the industry’s needs.
ATT partners with electrical companies to help grow their business through recruiting, employing and placing high quality apprentices. We’ve been working with apprentices and trade businesses for over 30 years, and we understand how to support apprentices and their host business from the beginning through to completion. We know how to find committed and enthusiastic apprentices who will get on with the job, and because we’re the apprentice employer, we deal with all the pay and HR issues, enabling you to focus on your business.
Thinking of taking on an apprentice? Contact us today and discover how effortless the process can be with our support!
att.org.nz | 0800 187 878