Understanding group training
Group training is a structured pathway for apprentices and trainees in Australia. It separates employment (handled by the GTO) from workplace experience (provided by host employers), creating a supported pathway for workforce development while reducing risk for smaller employers.
GTO responsibilities
- Legal employer of apprentice
- Wages and superannuation
- Training coordination
- Placement management
Host responsibilities
- Day-to-day supervision
- On-the-job training
- Safe work environment
- Adequate work experience
How group training works
The typical group training arrangement:
Group training structure
Benefits of group training
For host employers
- Reduced admin burden
- Lower risk and commitment
- Training support from GTO
- Flexibility in placement duration
For apprentices
- Protected employment continuity
- Varied workplace experience
- GTO support and advocacy
- Better completion rates
GTO standards
GTOs in Australia must meet National Standards for Group Training. When choosing a GTO, verify they're registered and meet quality standards. Not all GTOs offer the same level of support and placement quality.
Considerations for hosts
- Cost: Hosts pay fees to GTOs but save on employment administration
- Supervision: Host is responsible for adequate supervision despite not being the employer
- WHS: Host has workplace health and safety obligations for the apprentice
- Training time: Must allow time for off-the-job training attendance
- Experience variety: Should provide range of tasks relevant to qualification
Common mistakes
Treating apprentices as cheap labour
Apprentices require genuine training, not just menial tasks. Hosts must provide adequate supervision and learning opportunities. Using apprentices purely for low-cost labour undermines the arrangement.
Ignoring training requirements
Hosts must allow time for off-the-job training and support practical skill development. Blocking training attendance or failing to provide relevant experience breaches host obligations.
Poor communication with GTO
Hosts should maintain regular communication with the GTO about progress, issues, and training needs. Problems are easier to resolve early with GTO involvement.
Key takeaways
Group training places apprentices with host employers while GTOs handle employment responsibilities. It provides a supported pathway for workforce development with reduced risk for smaller employers and protected employment for apprentices. Hosts must still fulfil supervision and training obligations.
RosterElf's staff management helps Australian businesses coordinate apprentice placements alongside regular staff scheduling.
