5 Common Myths About Taking on an Apprentice (and Why They’re Wrong)
Bringing an apprentice into your business can be one of the most rewarding and cost-effective decisions you make. But if you’ve been hesitant, you're not alone. Plenty of electrical businesses worry about the risks, the admin, or the commitment.
It’s time to clear things up. Here are five common myths about hiring an apprentice—and the truth behind them.
Myth 1: "Apprentices are too much work."
Many business owners think they’ll be buried in paperwork or left to figure everything out on their own. But that’s not the case, especially if you partner with a Group Training Organisation (GTO).
GTOs, like EGT, take care of the heavy lifting. They handle recruitment, payroll, training coordination, and performance support. You provide the workplace and guidance; they handle the rest. It’s a low-stress way to grow your team without the admin overload.
Myth 2: "They’ll just leave after I train them."
Worried about investing time into someone who might move on? While that can happen in any job, apprentices are often looking for long-term roles, and many stay with their host employers well after they qualify.
Myth 3: "I can’t commit to a full four years."
It’s a common misconception that taking on an apprentice means locking yourself in long-term, but that’s not the case, especially when you hire through a GTO.
You don’t necessarily need to commit to the full apprenticeship duration. Whether you need help for a few months or a couple of years, you can host an apprentice for as long as it suits your business. Although there are benefits to taking on an apprentice for their entire training, for both the apprentice and the employer.
Myth 4: "They’ll make too many mistakes."
Apprentices are still learning, yes—but that’s exactly what makes them such a valuable asset.
With EGT, apprentices receive hands-on mentoring, structured training, and regular check-ins to help them grow. They work under supervision and are guided through safe, supported learning experiences. And because they’re new to the industry, they come in as a blank slate—eager to learn, adaptable, and open to doing things your way.
Instead of unlearning bad habits, apprentices can develop the exact skills and standards your business values most. Mistakes are part of learning, but with the right guidance, they’re rare and often lead to long-term improvement.
Myth 5: "It’s too expensive."
Hiring an apprentice, especially through a GTO, is far more affordable than many people think. You get access to junior labour at a reduced rate, and many government incentives are available to help offset costs.
EGT can help you navigate funding, rebates, and any paperwork involved. That means less financial stress and more focus on getting the job done.
The Bottom Line
Taking on an apprentice doesn’t have to be risky or complicated. With the support of a GTO, it can be a simple, flexible, and rewarding way to build your workforce and invest in the future of the electrical trade.
Don’t let myths hold you back—discover how easy it is to become a host employer today.
