What it's really like on the job

What's expected of you

As as an apprentice you'll be expected to:

• start early or finish late (depending on the job)
• work on large long-term kaupapa or small repair jobs
• travel to various job sites
• work outside and inside
• stick to deadlines
• work in noisy or dirty conditions
• work at heights or in confined spaces
• follow health and safety guidelines
• concentrate for extended periods of time
• be accurate – other tradespeople rely on your measurements or quantities
• work both on your own and as part of a team
• whakarongo and communicate well
• be comfortable with tools and machinery
• maintain your tools

Your employer is your teacher

You need your employer's permission to do an apprenticeship. Your employer will train you as you earn a wage working. They'll ensure your work is up to standard and make sure you master the skills you need to gain your professional qualification. Some employers may require you to do a trial period before they will take you on as an apprentice.

A good apprentice is:

• motivated to learn
• professional and reliable
• determined
• consistent
• proud of their good work

Practical training with some online learning on the side

When you begin your apprenticeship, you’ll receive a set of self-paced workbooks with modules related to your practical work on site and you'll also get access to myBCITO - a learning management system where you can read your workbooks online, engage with your Training Advisor and complete quizzes to help you learn. Depending on the trade, you might also go to block courses during your apprenticeship.

Training advisors keep you on track

You’ll have a BCITO training advisor (TA) during your apprenticeship. Your TA will regularly meet with you onsite and online to:

• ensure you're getting quality training
• keep track of what you're learning (and inform you of any potential gaps)
• assess your competency
• record your aromatawai results with NZQA

How aromatawai works

Aromatawai is based on evidence of practical skills and discussions (either face-to-face or online) with your BCITO training advisor. Aromatawai may require more than one attempt to complete. You will:

• receive a resource pack from BCITO which includes workbooks and reference material
• receive access to myBCITO
• gather evidence (like photos) of your skills and record your progress in myBCITO
• meet with your BCITO TA (either face-to-face or online) to check your progress and assess your skills
  

Find out how to prepare for assessment