Mechanical Engineering

Apprenticeship is a voluntary contractual training programme between the employer and apprentice which is ratified by the Director of Training of the Board.

Anyone of school leaving age or over, who is desirous of being trained in a field in which a scheme of training is offered, is eligible.

No qualifications are required.

The apprenticeship contract is usually for a period of three years
although some exemptions can be made to shorten the period of training
if the apprentice has already completed some theoretical or practical
training at an approved institution. Exemptions are subject to the
Director’s discretion.

The Board is able to facilitate this process but you can also find your own employer.

Yes, note that the wage paid varies according to the company which employs you. An apprentice is paid 45%, 55% and 75% of a regular employee’s pay in the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd respectively.

A scheme of training is a document which outlines the skills, tasks and competences that you should acquire during your apprenticeship.

You will receive a Certificate of Apprenticeship. Note that in order to receive certification persons must have completed both the practical and theoretical aspects of their training programme. Certification is based on attendance, the completion of the skills, tasks and competencies listed in the scheme of training and the submission of relevant records from the employer and the approved academic institution.

Certificates are nationally and internationally recognized.

Applicants must be at least sixteen (16) years old and should have completed nine years of formal education. Applicants may identify an employer who agrees to train them in their chosen trade, or they may request assistance from the BVTB in finding a suitable employer. Applicants must be willing to enter a contractual relationship with the employer as outlined in the Laws of Barbados Cap 42 on Apprenticeship.