The day to day management of an Australian Apprentice involves meeting legal requirements such as record keeping, reporting and adhering to the training plan.
It also involves being aware of any issues the Australian Apprentice may be experiencing in the workplace or during off-the-job training.
Here are some tips which will help you manage a successful Australian Apprenticeship.
Start right
Set aside time to help your apprentice settle into the business. Remember your new employee may have little or no experience of a working environment.
Make sure workplace health and safety issues are fully explained and adequate supervision is provided. In many unfair dismissal cases the employer is at fault by making fundamental mistakes in the hiring and induction processes. (Source: Miller, E. VET and Small Business - Unlocking Access to Successful Work, P. 3.)
Monitor progress
Check how things are going with the apprentice and their nominated supervisor on a regular basis. If the apprentice is doing off-the-job training keep in touch with the registered training organisation (RTO). Encourage the apprentice to come to you with any problems.
Keep records up-to-date
Schedule work appropriately
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Make sure the apprentice is free to attend off-the-job training. Take the apprentice’s skill levels into account when planning work
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Provide opportunities for the apprentice to practice new skills under proper supervision
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Allow the apprentice to gain as broad a variety of experience as possible.
Be supportive
Provide support and encouragement to the apprentice and make sure other employees do the same. Maintain good communications between yourself, the apprentice, supervisors and the RTO.
Don't let problems escalate
If problems arise with the apprentice, ensure the RTO or your business deals with them straight away. More information on dealing with problems.
Your local AAC is there to provide you with advice and help on managing your Australian Apprentice.