After completing his secondary schooling at Menzies College, James was employed as a labourer for a local engineering company.

During this time James had the opportunity to see first hand what engineers do and, wanting to improve his status in the workplace, he decided to apply for an apprenticeship with Southern Group Training. He has been placed with Donald Engineering for his on job practical training.

To complete the Level 4 National Certificate in Heavy Fabrication Engineering James must complete a range of theory and practical unit standards.

James’ off job theory training has been provided by the Southern Institute of Technology through his attendance at weekly evening classes and a three week block course each year.

Regular attendance at evening class is extremely important as apprentices need to complete the theory component of each unit standard before they can be workplace assessed in the practical components of this qualification.

An apprenticeship offers the opportunity to gain a Level 4 qualification without needing to take on a student debt. Apprentices are paid as they learn. Southern Group Training, as employer, pays for James’ annual apprentice registration fee, Training Manual, 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.