We also build careers.
What is the apprentice network?
The NZCB Apprentice Network provides a suite of specific resources to benefit employers and apprentices during the process of their trade qualification and on-the-job mentoring.
What the Apprentice Network offers:
Grow.
- Supporting our members business growth goals is one of our highest priorities. Having great carpenters and team members in your business makes a big difference. Hence, we take a holistic approach to what we offer, helping to also grow the people you need.
- Employment Contracts for employers who train apprentices.
- Apprentice Network’s Code of Good Practice, for employing, training & retaining apprentices.
- Access to The NZCB Apprentice Trust.
Mentor.
- Trade qualification is the foundation of NZCB. We are passionate supporters of the apprenticeship programme and work hard to maximise the value for both apprentices and our members, who guide them through to qualification.
- Regular electronic newsletters & in person training, including a dedicated stream at NZCB’s Annual Conference & Expo.
- Preferential entry into NZCB’s annual Apprentice Challenge competition.
- Dedicated networking opportunities for apprentices to connect, share experiences and encourage each other.
Lead.
- Our members have been responsible for tens of thousands of quality builds from one end of Aotearoa to the other. The NZCB Apprentice Network is the latest initiative to support our members to be the best builders in New Zealand.
- Apprentice specific Redi Insurance Package, including Trade Asset, Motor Vehicle, Life &, Accidental Injury Cover.
- Apprentice specific Mental Health & Wellbeing support for employers and apprentices.
- Apprentices become NZCB Trainee Members giving them access to standard NZCB benefits.
Plus, deals and discounts
Trainee Members of the NZCB Apprentice Network have access to many of the existing deals and discounts that NZCB Members benefit from.
Interested in becoming a part of the network?
Fill out the form and we’ll get back to you
NZCB prides itself on meeting high standards and is passionate about the value a good apprenticeship training experience can bring to your career.
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Frequently asked questions
For employers
Only apprentices employed by NZCB Business Members can join the Apprentice Network. Your apprentices become Trainee Members of NZCB. They receive regular industry updates and information related to the vocation they have chosen as a career. This becomes an employment benefit of your business, exclusive to NZCB Members only.
The Apprentice Network does not train your apprentice, but instead provides support to apprentices enrolled in a recognised Training Provider chosen by the you or your apprentice.
Apprentices can still train at a Polytechnic or Institute of Technology in most parts of NZ. You need to contact the Training Provider directly in your region and enquire about the New Zealand Certificate in Carpentry – Level 4.
The apprentice should have the final decision on who they choose to enrol with to undertake their training. However, as an employer you may have a preferred Training Provider based on prior and existing apprentices, which you can suggest to your apprentice.
Frequently asked questions
For apprentices
Apprenticeships are generally offered by builders within the building and construction industry. You should consider the type of building work you want to undertake and approach a builder directly. Often the best method is cold calling, although the NZCB Apprentice Network can assist with apprenticeship placement. You should have good general fitness, a Restricted or Full NZ Drivers Licence and a willingness to learn. Apprentices need to be atleast 16 years of age, and parental or legal guardian consent is required if under 18 years of age.
Apprenticeships are no longer tied to fixed hours or minimum time-served models, they are based on industry competency and individual ability. However, you should expect to serve 3-4 years to complete the full Level 4 NZ Certificate in Carpentry.
A carpentry apprentice must be in full-time employment and have a Training Plan in place with a recognised Training Provider.
The New Zealand Employment Law is very clear; apprentices should be employees and not Individual Contractors to a Principal Contractor.
Yes, NZCB under the Apprentice Network, as an Industry stakeholder can address valid concerns on your behalf.
The Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) produces the Code of Good Practice for New Zealand Apprenticeships. It has information for work-based training programmes leading to various careers.