Pathways into trades

There are a number of valid pathways into trades training in New Zealand
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Go straight from school into an apprenticeship

At Competenz we’re all about industry training – you earn money while you are learning.

You can start an apprenticeship or traineeship straight from school. The first step is to find a job. The next step is for your employer to agree you can start an engineering apprenticeship with us.

Most apprenticeships take around four years to complete and our Competenz training advisors are with you every step of the way. We support you with your learning, assessments and arranging block courses. Plus, we visit you and your employer regularly to check-in and make sure you’re on track for success.

And, we can help place you into work too. Have a look at the job vacancies available at Competenz.

Study for level 3 at a polytech or private training provider

For some people, a pre-trade or level 3 qualification gained through a polytech or private training provider is a good way to help decide what trade you feel most passionate about.  You will gain some broad trade-related skills you can take into the workplace at the same time.

There are a number of providers which offer level 3 and other pre-trade programmes showing a clear Record of Achievement (RoA) – the formal way you can track and show achievement of unit standards.

These programmes can get you ready for trades training. When you enroll in an apprenticeship through this pathway, we know the unit standards you have achieved in your level 3 qualification. This makes it easier for Competenz or your employer to see the skills you have and what you can already do. It also means we might be able to fast-track you into year two of your apprenticeship. Your total time in the apprenticeship reduces to just three years, and that’s a win for you as well as your employer.

Talk to our friendly team if you have any questions using the chatbot.

Apprenticeships available now

We help good employers hire apprentices. Check out all the apprenticeship jobs we have available around the country.

Jobs available now

Industries we serve

We provide training in 37 sectors across New Zealand from Engineering, Sign making and Printing through to Bakery and Textile manufacture.

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