Who can employ a RAP Apprentice?

Anyone who is eligible to employ an apprentice can employ a RAP apprentice.

How is a RAP Apprentice different from a regular apprentice?

A RAP apprentice is a high school student.
A RAP apprentice must be paid at least minimum wage.
The technical training is delayed until the RAP student completes high school.
Alberta Education is responsible for Worker's Compensation coverage for RAP apprentices while they are high school students.

Employer Benefits:

Builds a community based work force
WCB - covered by Alberta Education
Participate in the development of your future work force
Integrates trade training in high school education process
Develops employability skills, feedback and performance review
Assists with shortage in trades
Minimizes cost of training

How much time does a RAP Apprentice spend on the job?
The employer, the student/parent, and the school determine the hours of work.

In Grade 10, the majority of students begin working full time in the summer following Grade 10 year.
In Grade 11, students may continue as a RAP apprentice working after school, weekends, and holidays, and returning full time during the summer following Grade 11.
In Grade 12, students continue as a RAP apprentice working after school, weekends, and holidays. Many apprentices try to arrange their timetables to accommodate a half-day, or possibly even an entire quarter or semester at the workplace during the Grade 12 school year.

What are the entrance requirements?

Passing all classes and good academic standing, particularly in Math, Science, and English
Excellent attendance at school, good citizenship and attitude
Completed HCS 3000 - Workplace Safety Systems
ACSA (Alberta Construction Safety Association) Online Safety course prior to placement

How do you get into RAP?

Apply through the Off-Campus Education Coordinator
You will obtain an application package. When completed you will return it to the office with an updated resume. If you qualify (marks, attendance, and citizenship are selection criteria), we will attempt to arrange a potential RAP placement between you and an employer.
While you are waiting for a placement you will complete the ASCA Safety course (Online).
An interview will be arranged between you and the potential employer.
If the employer hires you, all the necessary paperwork must be completed before you begin work.

Fast-Tracked (find your own employer)

Due to the connection with the employer, these are usually very successful placements. This method is strongly encouraged.

Research and select a trade
Find an employer who is qualified and willing to take you on as a RAP apprentice (friends and family are a GREAT place to start)
When you have a willing employer contact Ms. Farrar ( 587-220-4358 or at farrard@holyspirit.ab.ca) who will help you with the remaining details of setting up the placement
In order for you to work as a RAP student, you, your employer, and a parent/guardian must complete the Off-Campus Education contract and Alberta Apprenticeship form. Ms. Farrar must visit the site prior to your first day to approve it as a safe learning environment.
When the contract, forms and site inspection are completed you are ready to start your RAP.
These are usually excellent, long lasting placements as there is a personal connection between the student and employer.

List Alberta Apprenticeship Trades
Agricultural Equipment Technician
Appliance Service Technician
Auto Body Technician
Auto Service Technician
Baker
Boilermaker
Bricklayer
Cabinetmaker
Carpenter
Communication Technician
Concrete Finisher
Cook
Crane Hoisting Equipment Operator
Electric Motor Systems
Electrician
Elevator Constructor
Floor Covering Installer
Gasfitter
Glazier
Hairstylist
Heavy Equipment Technician
Instrument Technician
Insulator
Ironworker
Landscape Gardner
Lather - Interior Systems Mechanic
Locksmith
Millwright
Motorcycle Mechanic
Natural Gas Compression Technician
Outdoor Power Equipment Technician
Painter and Decorator
Parts Technician
Plumber
Power System Electrician
Powerline Technician
Recreation Vehicle Technician
Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic
Rig Technician
Roofer
Sheet Metal Worker
Sprinkler Systems Installer
Steamfitter - Pipefitter
Structural Steel and Plate Fitter
Tilesetter
Transport Refrigeration Technician
Water Well Driller

Visit www.tradesecrets.gov.ab.ca for more information about the specific trades.

If you have any questions about the Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP) please contact the Off-Campus Education Coordinator, Ms. Devon Farrar 587-220-4358 or at farrard@holyspirit.ab.ca

DISTRICT

Lethbridge Schools

Rural Schools

Holy Spirit's Registered Apprenticeship Program FAQ page

Registered Apprenticeship Program FAQ