Mythbusting
Earning Potential
Myth
Apprenticeship and traineeship graduates don’t earn much money. If I want to earn good money, I need to get a university degree.
Truth
People who complete an apprenticeship/traineeship can expect to earn as much - or more! - than university graduates. The median full-time income for a traineeship/apprenticeship graduate is $56,000. That’s $2000 more than the median salary for students with a Bachelor’s degree. There are also apprenticeship/traineeship streams whose graduates outearn many Bachelor degree graduates. For example, the highest average starting salary for a VET qualification (Certificate IV in Hazardous Areas – Electrical is $85,400 - higher than the highest starting salary with a Bachelor-level degree in Dentistry at $80,000.
Finding a Job
Myth
I’ll have a hard time finding a job after I finish my apprenticeship/traineeship.
Truth
Apprentices and trainees have a higher employment rate than undergraduates. More than 78% of apprenticeship/traineeship graduates are employed after training, compared to 69% of university graduates. NextGen Jobs is particularly proud of our record - 90% of our youth apprentices and trainees maintain employment after their program ends.
Jobs of the Future
Myth
An apprenticeship/traineeship is for “old-school” jobs and won’t prepare me to be competitive in a global economy.
Truth
Apprenticeship/traineeship courses have adapted more quickly to the changing workforce need than their university counterparts. According to the Commonwealth Government Department of Employment, there are apprenticeship/traineeship training courses available for 9 out of 10 occupations predicted to have the greatest growth of new jobs over the next five years.
Well Rounded Education
Myth
Apprenticeships/traineeships focus just on the technical skills I need for a job. I won’t get the well-rounded education I’d get at uni.
Truth
Modern apprenticeships/traineeships teach interpersonal skills along with technical and analytical skills. Companies are increasingly seeing the value of continuing to invest in developing their employees ‘soft skills’, such as communication, initiative, teamwork, technology and problem-solving, all through professional training. As well, training organisations are incorporating this training into their qualifications. These soft skills are transferable, and will serve you well no matter where your career takes you.
A Successful Career
Myth
I have to study and perform to a high level at secondary school, plus complete Year 12, to gain meaningful employment and have a successful career.
Truth
Lots of people struggle in secondary school, but that doesn’t mean you can’t go on to an incredibly rewarding and successful career. Everyone has different learning styles and enjoys doing different things at different stages of life. Even if you leave secondary school early, there are many programs and courses available to help you get the skills and experience you need for a fulfilling career, just like many NextGen Jobs graduates.
