Apprenticeship Training Scheme

What is an Apperenticeship?

Apprenticeship is a system that combines work and part-time study which involves both practical skills and an understanding of theory in the trades.

Apprentices need to complete three (3) to four (4) years or six thousand (6,000) to eight thousand (8,000) hours. The end product of the scheme is awarding of the Certificate of Due Completion to candidates who have successfully completed the training and are competent in their chosen trade.

The Apprenticeship Scheme is mandated under the Apprenticeship Act 2014 and the Apprenticeship Regulations 2015.

The Samoa Apprenticeship Council, responsible for the administration of the Apprenticeship Scheme, is established under the above legislation. The above legislation also appoints the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Labour as the administrative arm of the Apprenticeship Council. The Chairperson of the Council is the CEO of the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Labour.

How is the training conducted?

Apprenticeship training is divided into two (2) components:

On-the-job Training:
- Training provided on the job by a qualified tradesman or employer.
Off-the-job Training:
- Training provided by the Training Provider.
  Monday – Thursday (5pm-8pm) or block basis (1 week).

What can I study?

Currently, there are seven (7) Apprenticeable trade courses taught at the National University of Samoa’s Faculty of Applied Science for you to choose from.

Motor Mechanics – Inisinia o afi taavale
Electrical – Faaeletise (Faimoli)
Fitting & Machining – Gaosiga o totoga o masini
Plumbing – Palama
Carpentry & Joinery – Faakamuta & Fau meafale
Welding & Fabrication – Sosoo Uamea
Refrigeration & Air Conditioning – Fai Pusa aisa ma Masini ea malulu.

How to find an employer?

Before applying for an apprenticeship through the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Labour, you must find an employer willing to take you on as an apprentice. If you are having difficulty, contact the Ministry for advice.

What are the entry requirements?

Completed at least 1 year of Vocational Training with a Training Provider or,
Completed Year 12 and have at least 1 year of relevant work experience in an Apprenticeable Trade in which he/she wishes to engage in under the Samoa Apprenticeship Contract.

How to apply and when to apply?

Intake each year varies and is limited to a certain number of apprentices for each trade. Applications to enter the scheme are normally advertised as early as December and closed at the end of February or mid-March the following year. The timetable for Apprenticeship Classes is set by NUS and once it is made available apprentices and employers will be advised accordingly.

Application forms are available from MCIL any time during working hours. The Application Form can also be accessed and downloaded by clicking on our link below.

Apprenticeship Application Form

Fees

Fees vary for each trade and year taken and will be made available at the start of each training.

Trade Testing

The revival of the Trade Testing Scheme for our local tradesmen with extensive knowledge and experiences without formal qualification is seen as an avenue and better option for early drop outs from school on personal reasons. If you’re already experienced in a trade with limited educational background, it may be better to do the Trade Test, which awards formal qualifications to people with existing skills.

Trade Test Application Form