Pre-apprenticeship is a way of gaining skills that prepare you for success in a Registered Apprenticeship Program. Programs usually include a combination of classroom and on-the-job experiences. Pre-apprenticeships can help candidates improve literacy and math skills, as well as helping them develop essential work-related skills.
Besides the benefit of developing skills and getting work experience, a pre-apprenticeship allows you to explore an industry without committing to a full apprenticeship.
Who is a Pre-Apprenticeship For?
Pre-apprenticeship programs support a wide variety of groups. Some programs target a specific group such as veterans. Many pre-apprenticeship programs are geared towards economically disadvantaged or under-represented groups, such as disabled individuals.
Many programs are designed for high school students, to prepare them to enter an apprenticeship after graduation. You must be at least 16 years old to qualify. Job Corps and YouthBuild are good examples of youth pre-apprenticeship programs.
Do I need to do a pre-apprenticeship?
It is not usually required to do a pre-apprenticeship before starting an Apprenticeship. However, a pre-apprenticeship can offer excellent exposure and experience.
All Registered Pre-apprenticeship programs have a partnership with at least one Registered Apprenticeship program, so completing a pre-apprenticeship puts you in a good position for acceptance into a full apprenticeship program.
Some employers may prefer to take on an apprentice who has completed a pre-apprenticeship. It comes down to the industry and the individual employer.