Frequently Asked Questions

What is Group Training?
Who is East Coast? 
Offices
Benefits of using East Coast
How does East Coast work?
Main aims of East Coast
Apprentice and Trainee selection
What does it cost?

What is Group Training?
Group Training Companies employ Apprentices and Trainees who are then placed in to industry with "Host employers" who provide them with  employment and training in their chosen vocational area. There are currently around 29 Group Training companies in Queensland covering every industry and geographical area. Nationally, Group Training companies employ over 40,000 apprentices and trainees. In Queensland, Group Training has been in operation since 1986. Each Group Scheme is an independent and incorporated 'not for profit' organization. They operate as commercial enterprises with any surplus generated returning to community service and expanded operations.

Who is East Coast?
East Coast Apprenticeships commenced in 1988 as an initiative of the Pine Rivers Shire Council, Redcliffe City Council and Caboolture Shire Council. Our aim was to help Apprentices and Trainees find employment and training in their chosen industry. From these early beginnings, our operations have grown to over 620 Apprentices and Trainees covering most vocations. As we have developed, we have played an increasing role in administering and managing programs for long-term unemployed and disadvantaged groups. These programs have included Contracted Case Management, Job Match, the Jobs Pathways Program, Workskills For Youth, Access Courses and other School to Work transition programs.

In November 1997, East Coast Apprenticeships occupied their current Office/Training Facility at Strathpine. Built by East Coast's own Apprentices this facility boasts discreet, fully serviced training/ conference rooms with a maximum seating capacity of more than 200. The office space, which houses our full time and contract staff will, over time be extended into the property which adjoins the Centre.  East Coast has three additional branches to service our growing operational area.  Details Include: 

Offices
 

See below:


What are the benefits of using East Coast?
Employing people through a Group Training Scheme gives employers total flexibility and access to on-going support. East Coast field officers constantly monitor the performance of Apprentices and Trainees dealing quickly with any difficult situations as they arise. Because trainees and apprentices are East Coast employees, businesses are relieved of the day to day general administration. An other major advantage is that businesses have the flexibility of hiring people to suit fluctuations in workloads. 

How does East Coast  work?
Apprentices and Trainees are employed by East Coast and are placed with 'Host Employer' businesses that provide the Apprentice or Trainee with employment and training opportunities. East Coast is responsible for the total administration of the employment including, payment of wages, tax, workers' compensation, Superannuation, sick days as well as arranging college and annual leave. We monitor and administer all on-job and off-job training undertaken by an Apprentice or Trainee in the normal course of their indentured period. We even arrange for the Government to pay for the training that an apprentice or Trainee receives. It is so simple because East Coast handles all the paperwork. 

What are East Coast's main aims?
1. To Ensure that Host employers receive a high level of work performance from our apprentices and trainees.

2. To Ensure that the apprentices or trainees receive the necessary experience and training to become qualified in their chosen field. 

How does East Coast select Apprentices and Trainees?
1. Candidates can be selected from our database or from the employers' own shortlist.

2. Short listed applicants undergo assessments with each candidate required to be successful at a series of interviews.  East Coast welcomes the participation of parents/guardians at interview.

3. The host employer is invited to conduct a final interview / assessment before the commencement of employment.

What does it cost?
The cost to employ an apprentice will depend on their age, the relevant industry award, allowances and the number of years the apprentice has already completed. Apprentices can be employed for weeks, months or years. We seek a genuine commitment to train the apprentice and usually expect host employers to engage with an apprentice for a reasonable period of time to facilitate training.  Employers should contact East Coast field staff to discuss any aspect of hosting a Trainee or Apprentice.