Frequently Asked Questions

Some questions asked by potential Trust apprentices, their parents and careers advisors:

1. Will I be trained towards an NZQA recognized qualification ?

Yes; Trust apprentices are expected to have qualified for the award of their National Certificates in Plumbing and Gasfitting, or their National Certificate in Drainlaying, or a certificate in Roofing by the time they complete their apprenticeship.

2.  Is there a formal training plan available tailored to my capabilities?

The National Certificates in Plumbing, Gasfitting, Drainlaying and Roofing are each made up of a number of Unit Standards registered on the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) Framework. 

Each Unit Standard has an assigned Level. There are 4 levels, 1 being the easiest and 4 being the most demanding. The requirements of these Unit Standards are covered in the training program they undertake through the PGDR ITO.  That program will be made up of any or all of the following:  Distance learning, night classes and block courses.

An individual "Training Plan" is also drawn up and issued to both the apprentice and the host employer at the start of the placement of each apprentice.

3.  How long does the apprenticeship training take?

The plumbing and gasfitting apprenticeship normally takes 3.5 to 4 years, after which you can apply to become a licenced Plumber and/or Gasfitter. The Drainlaying and Roofing apprenticeships each take 2 years.  Drainlaying apprentices can then apply to become a licenced Drainlayer.

4.  How much do I get paid?

This depends on the Level you are at as you progress through your apprenticeship.  There is a minimum wage rate paid at each level of the apprenticeship:

Plumbing and Gasfitting apprentices:  On commencement the minimum ordinary hourly rate is $10.50 per hour. Around 18 months later, provided you have completed all Stage 1 training requirements, it increases to $11.50. The Stage 1 training requirements include completion of the scheduled block courses as well as all Stage 1 distance learning modules.

After a further 18 months and again provided you have completed all Stage 2 training requirements and distance learning, it rises to $12.50.   

 A further 18 months on, and on completion of all Stage 3 training requirements including the distance learning and the award of your first National Certificate, it rises to $13.50. 

Finally and after a further 3 to 4 months, once you have completed all requirements for the award of your second National Certificate, it rises to $14.50.

Drainlaying and Roofing apprentices:  On commencement, the Stage 1 minimum ordinary hourly rate is $10.50 per hour.  A wage rise to Stage 2 rates of $11.50 per hour occurs when the standards of Stage 1 have been assessed to the employer's satisfaction, and all other requirements of the Employment Agreement and House Rules have been complied with.

Please note that your Host Employer may choose to pay you above the minimum rates as listed.

Note:  Apprentices also receive a further 58 cents per hour  Tool Allowance (non taxable) from the Trust when they are actually working or attending a training course.  

5.  What if I wish to change industry ? 

This can be done at any time, you will receive written confirmation of your achievements at the point of leaving. 
 
 

6.  Can the Trust guarantee continuity of work ?

As much as any other organisation can in today's world.

7.  What will my legal rights be under the apprenticeship

As a requirement of your apprenticeship you enter into a Fixed Term Individual Employment Agreement with the Apprenticeship Training Trust as your employer. 

This Agreement needs to be signed by both parties ie you and the Trust, before your employment and training commences. 

Each successful applicant for an apprenticeship is provided with a copy of this Agreement and the accompanying House Rules, and given an opportunity to go through both documents and, if necessary, obtain independant legal advice, before they sign it.

8.  How do I go about applying for a Trust apprenticeship

You complete the Trust's application form - a copy is in the Apprentice section of this website and can be downloaded or printed off.

You should complete this, and either mail or email it to the Trust - all our contact details are at the foot of this page.

You must attach a copy of your CV and your NZQA Record of Learning (if you have been issued with one)

If you need more information to help you decide about applying please either email or call us - we can send an "Information Pack" if necessary.