What is a GTO?
Navigating the realm of workforce training can sometimes feel like a daunting expedition. Thankfully, you're not alone on this journey. Group Training Organisations (GTOs) can be your trusty guides, mapping out the best routes and ensuring a smooth ride. If you've ever wondered about the origins, role, and benefits of GTOs, strap in. We're about to go on an enlightening journey.
A Look Back at History
The concept of GTOs was conceived in Australia during the late 1970s. Initially designed to support small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that lacked resources or experiences to employ and train apprentices, the group training model soon gained momentum. The success of this model is a testament to its flexibility and adaptability, appealing to businesses of various sizes and across sectors.
What are Group Training Organisations?
In simplest terms, GTOs are the employers of apprentices and trainees. GTO's then place them with 'host employers' to gain on-the-job training and supporting all parties through the process from recruitment to completion. This unique model enables businesses to offer quality training experiences without shouldering the full burden of employment responsibilities.
Stakeholder Relationship under GTO model.
Why GTOs Are Valuable to Your Organisation
Opting for a GTO brings a wealth of benefits, including:
Ease of Administration: GTOs take care of paperwork and administrative chores, freeing up your time to focus on the business.
Flexibility: GTOs enable workforce scalability as per your needs, making it simpler to adapt to varying project demands.
Quality Training: GTOs ensure the provision of diverse work experiences, shaping apprentices and trainees into skilled, multifaceted employees.
Compliance: GTO's ensure the apprenticeship is fully compliant with all the acts and regulations, including but not limited to pay, work hours, employer entitlements and work health ans safety management.
Identifying the Right Time to Engage a GTO
A GTO could be a perfect fit for your organisation if:
You're keen on employing an apprentice or trainee but don't want to manage the administrative tasks.
You need to expand or contract your workforce based on project demands
You wish to invest in skills training but don’t have the necessary resources or expertise.
Choosing the Right GTO for Your Needs
Choosing a GTO is not a one-size-fits-all decision. Here's what to consider:
Industry Expertise: Look for a GTO with a track record in your industry. They’ll have a better grasp on the training needs and suitable placements.
Location: Local or regional GTOs could offer more targeted services for your community, while national GTOs bring a wider network.
Support Services: Examine the GTO’s offerings for mentorship, career guidance, welfare checks, Employer Assistance programs and more.
Reputation: Do a bit of detective work. Check out reviews or seek recommendations.
National Standards for Group Training: Does the GTO comply with the National standards for Group training? Not all states require organisations to comply with the standards in order to operate, however it is a good base level to understand if they comply with the standards.
You can search all the registered Group Training Organisations here.
How Does It Work?
You might be wondering: how does this model of employment and training actually function? Let's break it down.
Engagement: The process starts when a business engages a GTO. They express their need for an apprentice or trainee, highlighting the specific skills they're looking for.
Employment: The GTO, in turn, employs suitable apprentices or trainees. These individuals are then known as 'GTO employees'. GTO's should include you in this recruitment process.
Placement: The GTO places these employees within your business, where you will provide on-the-job training.
Rotation: One distinct feature of a GTO arrangement is the potential for rotation. The GTO can shift an apprentice or trainee among different host employers. This rotation provides a broader range of work experiences, which contributes to a well-rounded skill set, it may also occur when host employers have a downturn in work, or lack the available work experience for the progression of the apprentice at this time.
Support and Monitoring: The GTO regularly monitors the apprentice’s or trainee's progress and wellbeing. They provide ongoing support, such as mentorship, career advice, and general help and guidance.
Completion: Once the apprenticeship or traineeship is completed to a satisfactory level, the GTO employee becomes fully qualified in their chosen field.
In Conclusion
GTOs, born out of Australian innovation and necessity, have stood the test of time, becoming a cornerstone of the vocational training landscape. They offer a solution that balances flexibility, quality, and support, making them a savvy choice for businesses keen on nurturing talent.
Remember, choosing a GTO is not necessary for all organisations, but if you feel it would help yours, it's about finding the right fit for your organisation. After all, every great adventure is made even better with the right companion!
Need more information or just want to chat about how GTOs could benefit your business? Don't hesitate to reach out. Your journey towards fostering a skilled and dynamic workforce could start with just a simple conversation.
Useful links:
Australianapprenticeships.gov.au