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 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 and Drainlaying 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 correspondence courses, night classes and block courses each apprentice undertakes with the accredited Training provider they enrol with.  

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 registered Plumber and/or Gasfitter. That is the usual period of time it takes each Apprentice to complete all their training requirements, including the National Certificate listed in Question 1.

4.  How much do I get paid?

This depends on the Level you are at as you progress through your apprenticeship.  The following are the minimum rates paid at each level of the apprenticeship:

On commencement the hourly rate is $9.00 per hour. Around 15 months later, provided you have completed all Level 1 training requirements, it increases to $10.00. The Level 1 training requirements include completion of the 1Q block course and all Level 1 correspondence modules.

After a further 15 months, and again provided you have completed all Level 2 training requirements, it rises to $11.00.   Level 2 training requirments include the 2Q block course and all Level 2 correspondence modules

 A further 15 months on, and on completion of all Level 3 training requirements and the award of your first National Certificate, it rises to $12.00.  Level 3 training requirements for each of plumbing and gasfitting include the 3Q block course and the relevant Level 3 correspondence modules.

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 $13.00.Your Host Employer may pay you above the minimum rates.

Note: Apprentices also receive a 58 cents per hour  Tool Allowance (non taxable) 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.