
APPRENTICESHIPS IN THE PICTURE FRAMING INDUSTRY
Introduction
The Picture Framers Guild of Australia is very pleased to promote the Certificate III - Picture Framing Trade Apprenticeship.
Currently, as at 8 August 2011, there are 21 apprentices enrolled in Victoria and two apprentices in South Australia. (In 2007 there were only 3 apprentices in Victoria). The number of female apprentices is increasing each year.
The Certificate III - Picture Framing Trade Apprenticeship is 95% work placed based with each Apprentice only required to attend a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) for 3-6 days in total during the Apprenticeship.
The Certificate III - Picture Framing Trade Apprenticeship is nationally recognised and endorsed by all Registered Training Organisations in Australia and is part of the Australian Qualification Network.
The Apprenticeship Training Package Units of Competency and modules were developed in 2002 by Picture Framing Industry representatives including full time picture framers of many years experience and expertise. It was developed to meet specific needs of the Picture Framing Industry.
The Training Package provides for the delivery of structured accredited training.
The Training Package comprises three key components including:-
Units of Competency
| LMFCR0001B | Follow safe working policies and practices | 40hr |
| LMFCR0002B | Communications in the workplace | 20hr |
| LMFCR0003B | Carry out measurement and calculations | 20hr |
| LMFCR0004B | Work effectively with others | 15hr |
| LMFPF2001B | Use picture framing sector hand and power tools | 40hr |
| LMFPF2002B | Cut mouldings to length | 28hr |
| LMFPF2003B | Join mouldings | 40hr |
| LMFPF2004B | Mount Artwork | 52hr |
| LMFPF2005B | Cut mat board | 44hr |
| LMFPF2006B | Cut and handle glazing materials for framing | 24hr |
| LMFPF2007B | Assemble artwork package (basic) | 40hr |
| LMFPF2008B | Recognise and repair finishes of framing materials | 44hr |
| LMFPF3001B | Deframe artwork | 32hr |
| LMFPF3002B | Decorate mat boards | 48hr |
| LMFPF3003B | Set up and operate CNC machines | 60hr |
| LMFPF3004B | Prepare textiles for framing | 60hr |
| LMFPF3005B | Recognise and handle artwork for framing | 60hr |
| LMFPF3006B | Prepare design requirements for framing | 48hr |
| LMFPF3007B | Apply frame finishes | 48hr |
| LMFPF3008B | Assemble artwork package (complex) | 60hr |
| LMFPF3004B | Install artwork | 28hr |
Assessment Process
Assessment of an Apprentice is performed 95% at the workplace. Assessment in respect of the first four units is completed at the RTO.
Where an apprentice has completed additional training, (e.g. carpentry), the Apprentice will be given prior recognition for units completed. Depending on the Apprentice’s past knowledge, aptitude and skills, the amount of time spent at the RTO will vary from 3 to 6 days.
Where the apprentice is assessed at their workplace, he or she will need to demonstrate their knowledge and skills as well as present examples of the completed units.
Experienced picture framers will be credited with Units of Competency where they are able to demonstrate their skills and knowledge.
The Certificate III - Picture Framing Trade Apprenticeship is for normally a three or four year Apprenticeship.
The Certificate III - Picture Framing Trade Apprenticeship is thorough, genuine and nationally accredited.
Recognition for Past Learning
A process for Recognition for Past Learning, (RPL) is available to experienced Picture Framers.
This process is performed by an RTO and involves a series of interviews and demonstration of skills.
Note, a Picture Framer who is undertaking an RPL process is not entitled to the Government incentives and will be required to pay for their assessment. An RTO in each State or Territory will advise re the costs involved.
Promotion of Qualifications
The PFGA are proud of a Picture Framer’s qualifications. Picture Framers are encouraged to display their qualifications, particularly those of their Apprentices. The display of the Picture Framers qualifications says to their customers, that their item for framing will be framed by a qualified Picture Framer who will take the additional care and ensure the relevant Picture Framing Standards and materials are expertly applied.
Moreover for the Apprentice, it is recognition of their skills, aptitude and knowledge and displays their pride in their work.
Government Incentives for Employers and Apprentices
The following is a summary of the standard incentives available from the Australian Government.
Some State Governments provide additional incentives, although this varies from State to State.
Standard Commencement
An incentive payment of $1,250 for an employer who commences an Australia Apprentice in a nominated equity group in a Certificate II qualification; or
An incentive payment of $1,500 for an employer who commences an Australian Apprentice in a Certificate III, IV, Diploma or Advanced Diploma qualification.
Standard Completion
An incentive payment of $2,500 for employers of Australian Apprentices who successfully complete a Certificate III, IV, Diploma or Advanced Diploma qualification.
Support for Adult Australian Apprentices
Australian Government financial support is available for adult workers, (including existing employees), (aged 25 years or over) to upgrade their skills through an Australian Apprenticeship at the Certificate III or IV level in an occupation listed on the National Skills Needs List.
The payment is made to either the employer or the Australian Apprentice depending on the actual wage paid to the Australian Apprentice.
Payment rates for full-time Australian Apprentices are as follows:
| $150 per week (up to a maximum of $7,800 per annum) for the first 12 months of the Australian Apprenticeship; and | |
| $100 per week (up to a maximum of $5,200 per annum) for the second 12 months of the Australian Apprenticeship. |
| $75 per week for the first 24 months of the Australian Apprenticeship; and | |
| $50 per week for the second 24 months of the Australian Apprenticeship. |
Tools For Your Trade payment (paid to the Apprentice)
The Tools For Your Trade payment initiative is available to eligible Australian Apprentices undertaking a Certificate III or IV Australian Apprenticeship leading to an occupation listed on the National Skills Needs List, a Certificate II, III or IV.
This payment comprises of five tax exempt cash payments paid over the life of the Australian Apprenticeship.
From 1 January 2011, eligible Australian Apprentices who commence or recommence their Australian Apprenticeship on or after 1 January 2009 may be eligible for payments of $800 at the three month point, $1000 at the 12 and 24 month points, $1200 at the 36 month point and $1500 on successful completion of the Australian Apprenticeship.
Eligible Australian Apprentices who commence or recommence their Australian Apprenticeship on or before 31 December 2008 may be eligible for payments of $800 at the three, 12 and 24 month points and $700 at the 36 month point and on successful completion of the Australian Apprenticeship.
Awards
Each year the Apprentice of the year is recognised by Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations and the relevant State RTO.
Reuben Rich of Art Conservation Framers, Albert Park, Victoria was named 2011 Apprentice of the Year.
Wage Rates for Apprentices
The PFGA provides to its members a schedule of wage rates applicable to Apprentices and Adult Apprentices.
Contacts
VICTORIA
| Registered Training Authority (RTO) |
Box Hill Institute |
|
Apprenticeship Services |
Jobs Plus Contact: David Smith Ph: 0438 328 759 or Wendy Edwards Ph: 0411 258 001 |
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
| Registered Training Authority (RTO) |
Tafe SA |
|
Apprenticeship Services |
Business SA 136 Greenhill Road UNLEY SA 5061 Contact: Eddie Zielke Ph: (08) 8300 0255 Mobile: 0417 823 700 Email: eddiez@business-sa.com |
The PFGA is currently developing RTO and Apprenticeship Services alliances in each of the other states. It is the PFGA’s aim to have the Apprenticeship program operating throughout Australia.
Further information regarding Picture Framing Apprenticeships contact PFGA Executive Officer, Neil Craven on 0419 500 609 or by email; admin@pfga.org.au