After completing his secondary schooling at Southland Boys High School Brad worked in a number of roles before being offered an apprenticeship through Southern Group Training. He is seconded to Marshall Industries for training in the practical components of his qualification.

To complete the Level 4 National Certificate in Light Fabrication Engineering Brad must complete a range of unit standards comprising both theory and practical elements. Brad’s off job theory training has been provided by S.I.T through his attendance at evening class and through a three week block course each year.

Apprentices are paid as they learn. An apprenticeship offers the opportunity to gain a tertiary qualification at Level 4 without needing to take on a student debt. Southern Group Training, as employer, pays for Brad’s Training Manual, his evening class and block course fees, and pays him while he is attending his annual three week block course. Travel and accommodation costs for any block courses held outside Southland are also covered.

Southern Group Training also provides its apprentices with their protective equipment and an interest free tool loan.