Aged care traineeships are becoming an increasingly popular way to gain hands-on experience, education, and training for people looking to establish a fulfilling career in the aged care industry. We know you have questions, so in this blog post, our expert recruitment and training team will be addressing your concerns and frequently asked questions.
Learn more about our Aged Care Traineeships.
What is an Aged Care Traineeship, Exactly?
Aged care traineeships are designed for individuals who are empathetic, motivated, and caring and are seeking a secure and rewarding career that truly makes a difference in the lives of older people. Through Skilled Care traineeships, you’ll have the opportunity to attain a Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing) and earn while you learn, allowing you to support yourself during your studies while gaining valuable hands-on experience.
Attain a Certificate III in Individual Support (Aging)
The Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing) is a nationally recognised qualification that provides a comprehensive understanding of the aged care industry and the skills necessary to provide high-quality support to elderly individuals. The qualification comprises 13 modules and can be completed in 12 months with full-time study (38 hours per week) or over 24 months with part-time study (15 hours per week).
Complete Your Placement Hours On-the-Job
All students must complete a minimum of 120 hours of work experience in a regulated aged care facility to be deemed competent for the Certificate III in Individual Support (Aging). With Skilled Care’s traineeship pathway, your work experience is attained on the job and paid for by your employer.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
If you have prior experience as an aged care worker or in a related field, you may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). This process assesses your existing skills and knowledge, allowing you to gain recognition for the work you’ve already done. By applying for RPL, you can shorten the length of your traineeship and start your career in aged care sooner.
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve gathered together the most frequently asked questions about the Aged Care Traineeship, and have all the answers compiled by our expert recruitment and training team.
How Can I Earn & Learn?
One of the most significant advantages of Skilled Care aged care traineeships is the ability to earn a salary while you learn. From day one of your traineeship, you are considered an employee and you are guaranteed an hourly wage. This is different from our traditional apprenticeship where pay only starts after completion of the training period.
During your traineeship, you are not just acquiring knowledge – you are also gaining on-the-job experience and skills that equip you for this fulfilling career. It’s a work-based training model that offers the best of both worlds – theoretical learning and practical work experience.
While working during your traineeship, you will have an opportunity to apply your newly learned skills directly in real situations. You will be part of a team delivering quality aged care, learning from experienced colleagues, and benefiting from their guidance and support. This enriches your learning experience, providing far more value than merely studying from a textbook.
In terms of wages, students are paid for every hour they spend working in an aged care facility, whether it’s a part of their practical learning or beyond the standard hours. Trainees often have the flexibility to request additional shifts, potentially increasing their earnings.
Remember, not only are you earning while you learn, but you’re also setting yourself up for a blossoming career in one of the most rewarding industries around. The experience and knowledge you gain now will lay the foundation for your success in the future.
In essence, the earn-while-you-learn approach not only helps in managing finances while studying, but it also provides an unrivaled opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the actual work environment, combining vocational education with invaluable first-hand workplace exposure.
Do I need to be an australian citizen or permanent resident?
Yes, all applicants must be Australian citizens or permanent residents to apply for the aged care traineeship.
What mandatory vaccines do I require?
You need to have all COVID-19 mandatory vaccines and be fully vaccinated to be able to work in the aged care sector.
Is there a course fee for the traineeship?
There is no qualification or course fee for trainee personal care workers or aged care trainees under the Skilled Care Aged Care Traineeship Program.
How many shifts per week are available?
Successful applicants will need to be available for a minimum of 20 hours per week, up to full-time, to suit their employer’s requirements.
Start Your Career in Care with Skilled Care
Aged care traineeships pave the way for a meaningful and rewarding career. If you are considering pursuing this path, don’t hesitate to reach out for more information. We hope this blog post has helped you in answering your questions and guiding you in making a well-informed career decision.
