At the Finishing Trades Institute of BC we believe in lifelong empowerment through trades training. Completing an apprenticeship course and earning a Red Seal or BC Certificate of Qualification means you have an esteemed designation, recognized throughout B.C. and Canada. There's a lot to be said for that.
If you've started an apprenticeship and need to finish your training in order to write the Red Seal exam, our school is equipped with the resources and expertise to get you prepared.
Below you will find important information about our school. Take the virtual facility tour. Learn about our tuition fees and the different kinds of financial assistance you may be eligible to receive while an apprentice. Over on the right side of the page, you'll see links to each Apprenticeship's page where you'll find more detailed information about that trade.
FTIBC Virtual Tour
FTIBC Program Fees
Program fees include Apprentice books and manuals.
Painting and Decorating - $500 per level
Glazing - $800 per level
Drywall Finishing - $500 per level
Wall and Ceiling Mechanic - $500 each for Module A and B; $500 for both Modules C/D
Red Seal
The Red Seal, also called The Interprovincial Standards Red Seal Program, is an interprovincial program that strives to keep a standard of excellence in Red Seal trades across Canada. Originally established to allow journey persons with a Red Seal endorsement greater mobility across provincial borders, the Red Seal has been around for over 50 years.
Completing apprentices in Red Seal trades are eligible to challenge the Red Seal exam. Tradespeople who did not go through a formal apprenticeship program but who have acquired sufficient experience across the scope of the trade may also be eligible to challenge the Red Seal exam. To earn the Red Seal on their certificate of qualification, exam challengers must achieve at least 70% on the exam.
Red Seal endorsement is recognized by employers as a standard of excellence and indicates that the certificate holder has met the Interprovincial knowledge, skills and work experience/competency standards established by industry.
Financial Assistance
To help cover some of the costs associated with taking training, there are a number of government financial supports and grant opportunities Apprentices may be eligible for:
Employment Insurance
Most of our Apprentices receive EI while completing their training. During your time as an Apprentice at the FTI, you may be able to receive employment insurance benefits as well. Call Service Canada 1-800-206-7218 for more information about eligibility. Also, on the first day of class, all Apprentices will get a chance to fill out their EI application forms and drop it off at a Service Canada office. The closest office to the FTI is located in Newton at 7404 King George Highway in Surrey.
Apprenticeship Incentive Grant
Registered apprentices who have successfully finished their first or second year/level in one of the Red Seal trades can apply for the Apprenticeship Incentive Grant. It is a taxable cash grant of $1,000 per year/level up to a maximum of $2,000. More information.
Apprenticeship Completion Grant
Registered apprentices who have completed their training and become a certified journeyperson in a designated Red Seal trade and who obtain either the Red Seal endorsement or a provincial or territorial Certificate of Qualification can apply for the Apprenticeship Completion Grant. It is a taxable cash grant of $2,000. More information.
