Hi

It will depend on the size of the company.  We employ apprentices direct as we have over 25 staff and so the additional work with wages and ACC etc is minimal.  Smaller companies like to go through ATT or Masterlink as it takes care of some of the paperwork and also when you are on Annual Leave, Sick or at Block Course Masterlink hosts don't have to pay Masterlink (although you would still get paid).

We've had several change of life apprentices like yourself coming in at anywhere from late twenties to early forties.  I always find these types of employees great as they have a bit of life experience and are often raring to go as apprentices.  My advice is to visit local reputable plumbing merchants and ask if you can put a one page CV up in the smoko room.  Often employers will want you to have done a pre-trade as then you at least are familiar with terms and tools - but keep door knocking.

Do a bit of research with Masterlink and ATT and see what they offer you as an apprentice - this can be more advantageous to you as I believe they will often pick up the tab for the training costs where direct apprentices often have to pay these costs themselves.  Let us know how you get on.

hi, I know a couple of tradesmen who first got a job at Mico Plumbing and who were later offered apprenticeships by good companies, you would be in the right place to get to know people in the trade and also would learn all the fittings and pipes that are used in the trade, good luck, cheers