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What is an Apprenticeship?

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What Do I Need to Register?

To sign up for one of our apprenticeship programs you will need to:

What is an Apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship is a combination of on-the-job training and classroom learning that leads to a trade credential – or “ticket.”

The SkilledTradesBC leads and coordinates British Columbia’s skilled trades system. SkilledTradesBC works with employers, apprentices, industry, labour, training providers (such as KPU) and government to issue credentials, support apprenticeships, fund programs, set program standards and increase opportunities in the trades.

The following apprenticeship training programs are offered periodically through KPU. KPU does not issue apprenticeship credentials; this is done by the SkilledTradesBC.

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Why Choose KPU?

KPU Tech campus, home to our apprenticeship programs, is conveniently located in Cloverdale, British Columbia to serve communities south of the Fraser River, including Richmond, Surrey, Langley and the Fraser Valley, as well as communities north of the Fraser, such as Pitt Meadows, Maple Ridge and Mission.

KPU is an SkilledTradesBC designated training provider, offering technical training in appliance service, automotive, construction, horticulture, electrical, parts and warehousing, plumbing and welding for registered apprentices.

We have lots of opportunities, offering 92 intakes a year. Plus, our small class sizes, averaging 16 students per class, allows our Red Seal-certified instructors to provide you with more attention and individual support.

Apprenticeships Training Overview

There are three major components of apprenticeship training:

  • A formal agreement between the employer, apprentice and SkilledTradesBC
  • In-school technical training
  • Work-based training (on the job)

  • Role of an Apprentice

    As an apprentice, you'll need an employer to sponsor you and you'll need to register with the SkilledTradesBC.

    An apprenticeship is a commitment to learn applied skills both on the job and in school.

    You should review the SkilledTradesBC Program Profile for your trade on the SkilledTradesBC website to understand the requirements you must meet to earn your certification.

  • School-based Technical Training

    As an apprentice, you'll attend school-based technical training for approximately 3 - 10 weeks per year over a four year period.

    You must meet SkilledTradesBC program requirements for the school-based technical training and standardized level exam to progress. The exam includes both practical and theoretical components.

    You should discuss appropriate times with your employer to complete your school-based training.

  • Work-Based Training

    Work-based, or on-the-job, training provides you an opportunity for you to apply the theory you've learned in your in-school technical training into practice.

    You must track your hours/work with your sponsor and report this information to the SkilledTradesBC every 6 to 12 months. Review your apprentice transcript online through SkilledTradesBC Self-Service Portal to ensure your information is up-to-date and accurate.

Apprenticeships

KPU is an SkilledTradesBC designated training provider, offering technical training in appliance service, automotive, construction, horticulture, electrical, parts and warehousing, plumbing and welding for registered apprentices.

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We are here to help you succeed at KPU. Now more than ever, we want you to be able to access the resources you need. Check out the support services linked below for important information about everything from financial assistance and academic support to counselling and ways to stay healthy.

Student Support Services is located in the Office of the Dean at KPU Tech.