The structured work-based learning the apprenticeship system provides has endured because it works: learn by doing, earn while learning and develop real skills in real workplaces that translate into lifelong careers.

Shortages of technicians and trades workers are widespread across many industries, yet apprenticeship and traineeship commencements have been falling for several years. At the same time, the number of apprentices completing their training is near record highs.

The data tells a complex story, but a simple fact remains – apprenticeships and traineeships are central to the skills Australia needs to deliver on many of our key national priorities. Australia needs an urgent and sustained step change in the numbers of apprentices and trainees, and the employers that employ them, participating in the system to meet our skill needs.

This webinar brought together a panel of experts to cut through the noise on commencements, completions and where Australia needed to be focusing to ensure our apprenticeship system could deliver the skills we needed into the future.

Presenters:

John King. Managing Director, National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER)

Brett Schimming, CEO, BuildSkills Australia

Gus Meyer-Jones, Apprentice Program Manager – South Pacific, Cummins

Host:

Dr Caroline Smith, Executive Director, Australian Industry Group Centre for Education and Training