What is an apprenticeship?

A paid job with structured training. You work on site with a real employer, build skills against NZQA standards, and get supported by EarnLearn to keep momentum and finish strong.

What is an apprenticeship?

A paid job with structured training. You work on site with a real employer, build skills against NZQA standards, and get supported by EarnLearn to keep momentum and finish strong.

On-the-job learning

Training mapped directly to real-world work so competence builds faster and learning feels relevant.

Pastoral support

Personal guidance and wellbeing support so every apprentice can stay motivated and succeed.

Clear standards

Transparent checkpoints and expectations so that everyone knows what good looks like.

Industry-led delivery

Training shaped by employers and industry experts to align skills with workplace needs.

Why EarnLearn?

Paid work

Real sites, real tools

Structured training

NZQA-aligned

Zero guesswork

Guided by EarnLearn

How it works

How it works

1

Find an employer

The first step is to find an employer. If you’re already working in Plumbing, Electrical or Scaffolding, you can approach your employer directly.

2

Sign up with EarnLearn

Once you and your employer are ready to get started, you should give us a call on 0800 327 648 (0800 EARN IT). There’s a couple of forms you’ll need to fill out together, so we’ll send these to you. Once we’ve received and processed your documents, an Account Manager will get in touch with you or your employer. They’ll run through an induction so you can kick off your training on the right foot.

3

Earn while you Learn

Now the fun begins! Training combines on-job learning with off-job theory. You’ll learn from qualified tradespeople on site, with theory delivered alongside so you progress faster.

1

Find an employer

The first step is to find an employer. If you’re already working in Plumbing, Electrical or Scaffolding, you can approach your employer directly.

2

How the training works

Training combines on-job learning with off-job theory. You’ll learn from qualified tradespeople on site, with theory delivered alongside so you progress faster.

3

Supporting you for success

When you enrol, you’ll be assigned an EarnLearn account manager and get access to our online platform, an information pack, and ongoing pastoral support.

Frequently Asked Questions

Starting an apprenticeship can feel like a big step. We’ve answered some of the most common questions to help you feel confident before you begin. From pay and training length to support and career outcomes, here’s everything you need to know about getting started with EarnLearn.

Yes. You’re employed by a real business, earning a wage while you learn. You’ll gain hands-on experience on site and complete structured training through EarnLearn.

Most take between three and four years, depending on your trade, experience, and how quickly you complete your training modules.

You’ll have a dedicated EarnLearn Account Manager who checks in regularly, helps you stay on track, and supports both you and your employer throughout your apprenticeship.

Certificates are typically valid for 2 years. After 2 years you should attend a refresher, subject to your employer’s requirements. If your certificate is no longer current (older than 2 years), you’ll need to complete the full course again.

Yes, if circumstances change. EarnLearn can help you transition to another approved employer so your training continues smoothly.

You’ll gain a nationally recognised New Zealand trade qualification, aligned with NZQA standards — setting you up for long-term career opportunities.

EarnLearn supports apprentices across New Zealand. We’ll match you with opportunities in your region whenever possible.

You’ll be registered in your trade (where applicable) and ready to advance your career — whether that’s becoming a senior tradesperson, supervisor, or even starting your own business.

Do you enjoy practical, hands-on tasks?
Are early starts and being on your feet OK for you?
Do you learn best by doing and working with a mentor?
Are you happy to follow safety rules and wear PPE?
Do you like variety — different sites, indoors and outdoors?
Does “earn while you learn” and a stable career appeal to you?
Are you ready to commit to 2–4 years and show up consistently?
Your result

Result

    Meet Brooke & Larraine

    Brooke and Larraine are both earning while they learn by building real-world skills, confidence, and independence through their electrical apprenticeships. 

    More Apprentice Stories

    More Apprentice Stories

    BROOKE & LARRAINE

    Brooke and Larraine recently completed their Level 4 Electrical Engineering apprenticeship in West Auckland.

    CALEB

    Caleb joined the Schools Gateway programme, secured a plumbing apprenticeship, and is now nearly qualified.

    HENRY & ELI

    Eli and Henry, both from Auckland’s North Shore, are building careers in scaffolding.