Canvas is accessible only within New Zealand and Australia.
Getting started
The best part? Earn while you learn - there's no student loan
You’ll get qualified without a student loan, all while learning practical skills from industry experts. You can put that money towards something else you really want – might be a new car, new tools or a new house.
Are you already working?
Your current employer might let you do an apprenticeship. All they need is the right information about how to make it work. Read up on the information for employers here. It will help you reassure your boss that it’s a good idea for both you and them.
If you and your current boss think an apprenticeship is right for you, here's how it works:
- Contact us (use the chat bubble at the bottom right of the screen)
- We assign you a training advisor
- Work with your training advisor to sign up and start planning
- Start your on-the-job training
- Pass your unit standards
- Earn your trade qualification.
Are you still at school?
Do you think an apprenticeship is what you want to do in the future? There are a few things you can do to give yourself the best chance of success.
- If you start after secondary school
There are some subjects that teach you useful skills for your apprenticeship training. These include maths, English, science, workshop and design technology, physics, graphics, chemistry, or NCEA Level 1 and Level 2 engineering unit standards.
- If you start after tertiary study
You can do a pre-apprenticeship course at a polytechnic or a training company. This will set you up well for your training. This kind of study will be recognised by an employer. If you’ve achieved a minimum of 50 credits, it’s a good indication that you will do well in an apprenticeship.
Already have a job?
Great! Many employers are keen to upskill their team. Talk to your boss about starting an apprenticeship—show them how it can benefit both you and the company. If they’re interested, we can help them get set up. Plus, if you’ve already got experience, you may be able to get some of your skills officially recognised as part of your training.
Still at school?
Thinking about an apprenticeship after school? Here’s how to get a head start:
- Choosing the right subjects: Subjects like maths, English, science, workshop tech, physics, graphics, or NCEA Level 1 & 2 engineering standards can help you build useful skills.
- Consider a pre-apprenticeship course: Studying at a polytechnic or training provider can give you a solid foundation. If you complete at least 50 credits, it’s a good indication that you will do well in an apprenticeship.
Ready to start now?
If you're keen to jump straight into a trade, check out our get ready for your trade career page for tips on finding an apprenticeship.
How Competenz can help
- If you don’t have an employer yet, we can help match you with one across 37 different trades sectors.
- Not sure where to start? We can also give you career advice to help you find the right path.
- We support you through your apprenticeship with study materials, resources, and guidance.
- Need a little extra support with reading, writing, or maths? We’ve got you covered.
Let’s get you on the road to a hands-on, rewarding career in the trades! Click here to contact us today.
Watch our video explaining our transition to Te PĹ«kenga
All you need to know:
All you need to know:
