In Lesson #1 you learned about ITA and some of the basic information about how it works. In this lesson you will look at the role and responsibilities of sponsors and what Red Seal Trades are.

When you start an apprenticeship you need an employer to sponsor you. Employers play a very important role in ensuring that skilled trades people are available when they are needed. To be a sponsor for an apprenticeship, the employer needs to:

• to be a legal entity or an individual who is a certified trades person or equivalent
• registered or become registered with the ITA
• be willing to assume the responsibility as listed below.

A sponsor must do the following:

• Register themselves and their apprentice(s) with the ITA
• Notify the ITA of any changes to their (the sponsor’s) contact information
• Ensure that the apprentice has a safe place to work and proper equipment
• Ensure that work-based training done by the apprentice is completed under the direction
  or supervision of a certified trades person or equivalent
• Ensure that the apprentice receives work-based training that incorporates the full scope
  of the apprenticeship program; training can take place at multiple work sites if required
• Track and report the apprentice’s work-based training hours to the ITA
• Release the apprentice as necessary to attend technical training
• Review documentation sent by the ITA regarding training progress with the apprentice and report any discrepancies to the ITA in a timely manner
• Recommend the apprentice for certification when all required work-based training, technical training and any other program requirements have been completed; refer to section C.4.4 – Enabling Apprentices to take Technical Training for detailed information regarding the recommendation for certification process

You can download a copy of the Sponsorship Guide here if you would like to learn more.

An apprenticeship usually consists of about 80-85% of work-based training and 15-20% technical training in a classroom or shop setting. You must complete both components and any required examinations before an apprentice earns a certificate or ticket and becomes a certified trades person in her or her trade.

The technical training component of an apprenticeship typically involves spending four to eight weeks per year in a classroom and shop setting. During each different level of training, apprentices will study specific subject areas. Examinations typically take place as each level of technical training is completed.

Apprentices are responsible for selecting and registering for their technical training, and working with their employers to schedule it at appropriate times. Apprentices are not usually paid during the time they are taking technical training, but may qualify for Employment Insurance benefits.

BC recognized training programs are those that lead to a Certificate of Qualifications in BC only, without a Red Seal or inter-provincial endorsement. Inter-Provincial Red Seal Training Programs are standardized national credentials for some trades allowing for greater mobility for people in working in them. There are currently 45 Red Seal trades in commonly pursued trades.

To lean more about Red Seal Trades visit their website.