Training Options

Employers of apprentices and trainees now have more choices in regards to the training process. Training providers, also known as Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) are either public (i.e. TAFE) or privately run organisations contracted by the Queensland Government.

What is the Training Provider's responsibilities?

• Establishing the Training Plan;
• undertaking an Employer Resource Assessment;
• delivering training and assessing your apprentice's or trainee's
• achievements; and
• issuing the qualification upon successful completion.

Who funds the training?

In Queensland, most training of Australian Apprentices and Trainees have traditionally been funded by the State Government under ‘User Choice’ arrangements. In many cases employers choose to fund the training under a user pay’s or fee-for-service arrangement.

User Choice is a term used to describe the funding and policies which allow employers and their apprentices/trainees to choose an approved training provider and negotiate key aspects of the training.

You will need to reach an agreement with your training provider as to which method of funding is most suitable. In some industries or qualification outcomes, only one training provider may be available.

How do I choose a Training Provider?

When choosing a training provider it is important to take into account their experience, ongoing support and flexibility in meeting your training needs. Things you should consider include:

• Type of Funding – Does the training provider have funding available under a User Choice contract or do they charge a fee-for-service basis? You may choose to pay a fee-for-service basis, due to a greater choice of providers and delivery options.
• Priority Population Groups (PPG) – Some traineeships fall under PPG restrictions. Depending on the priority group rating, some funded traineeships are only available to specific targeted groups (excluding apprenticeships and school-based apprenticeships and traineeships, as they are all fully funded).
• Experience – Does the training provider have experience in your industry?
• Training Options – The provider is required to work with you and your apprentice/trainee to design the Training Plan.
• Delivery Mode – Is training self-paced or training driven? Is it delivered in the workplace, college or both? How much time will the apprentice/trainee spend off site?
• Service Levels and Costs – Can the training provider provide you with the level of service you require? They must provide a training record book which is based on the Training Plan, as well as essential training materials. In some instances, the apprentice/trainee is required to pay fees and charges (e.g. Certificate Level III and above).
• Flexibility of Delivery – If you are experiencing a busy period, you may want to reschedule training so your apprentice/trainee is in the workplace.
• Assessment – How and when does the training provider assess the apprentice/trainee? Do you play a role? What support is given?
• Amount of Contact – At least every six months, the training provider is required to review the Training Plan. They must maintain regular contact to check the progress of the training.
• Additional Support – Is there any additional support to suit your businesses needs?
• Complaints Process – If you are unhappy with the training, you have a right to complain and change to another provider.
   

Please call Queensland Apprenticeship Services on 1300 360 955 to find out which training providers can deliver your requirements.