What is an Apprenticeship Agreement?

Before the programme begins, the employer and apprentice sign an apprenticeship agreement that contains important information regarding the apprenticeship. It serves as a binding employment contract between the apprentice and the employer and is a legal obligation. A parent or legal guardian must sign on behalf of an apprentice who is under the age of 18.

All apprentices must sign two documents before beginning the programme. Along with the agreement, there is the apprenticeship training plan, a contract between the trainee, employer, and training provider. Typically, both contracts are signed during the apprentice orientation session.

What does an apprenticeship agreement contain?

Details on employment agreements, working conditions, and the apprenticeship programme itself will be included in the apprenticeship agreement. A copy of the contract will be given to the employer and apprentice, for both of whom to keep.

The apprenticeship agreement must contain the following:

• Employment and apprenticeship length
• Job role and apprenticeship programme
• Amount of off-the-job training hours
• Working conditions and rate of pay