Starting an apprenticeship

Today at work DP was offered a possible plumbing apprenticeship starting after the baby is born. After a lengthy discussion we have decided it will be something he will do because it means he will have a proper career as well as a trade and later on possibly starting his own business if he does really well.

Our biggest concern is how much the pay cut will affect us as a family. He was told because hes of a 'mature' age he will get paid double - triple the 1st year apprentice wage. Then there is we will be able to claim more benefits and at worst i can return to work sooner than expected, i'm open for anything if it means he will be happy.

Just wondering if anyone has any words of wisdom and experiences.

It's definitely a good step for you guys I reckon. My DH started his own electrical business a few years ago based on being a mature age apprentice, but that was before my time. The apprenticeship was before my time that is. I helped him start our business :)

The potential for growth and business development is huge when you have your own business.

Short term pain - long term gain.

I think that sounds great. I used to work in the training industry, not for that particular trade, I think just make sure you twlk to the training company and the apprenticeship centre about all the grants/benefits you can get, they may often know of more that is available, and it's just a matter of knowing you are entitled to it. When I did my traineeship I didn't know I could have been getting a centrelink payment at the same time because I was studying and low income.

Thanks :) I think it will be great for him, he loves being hands on and its getting out of retail and learning a trade and the possibility of his own business is very exciting! To think he could have his own business by the time he is 40 is very exciting.

Any step forward is a good step in the long run. The hardships it incurs, because there will be some along the way, will never be outweighed by the pride and satisfaction him and yourself will have in this accomplishment. Go for it I say, and go for it hard!!
xx

I did my apprenticeship as a mature age student and it was fabulous. The pay is really not *that* bad IF there is a mature age award. Make sure you confirm that before making any decisions - I did the first half of mine in Victoria, and therefore no mature age award, and the second half here in WA where there was one - and it was the difference between surviving and doing it, or not.

Good luck.

check out the fair work page, he should be cover by the modern awards and it has it all there about what he should be paid and what the conditions are etc... I looked into it recently for our trade business and I *think* it is basic labourer wages (as I remember it)

Oh for sure, i will definitely look at everything before making any decisions. We may struggle but i think it will be worth it in the long run. With the help of family we should be fine.

I am very excited!! :D