Study - Types of courses - Apprenticeships and traineeships

 

Apprenticeships and traineeships

From Barangaroo to the Light Rail project, from WestConnex to new residential builds, New South Wales is a state in construction. We need apprentices. We need to build a strong pipeline of skilled tradespeople.

The NSW Government recognises this and has now made it even easier for you to become (or employ) an apprentice. They’re investing over $285 million to fund the qualification fees for 100,000 new apprentices from 1 July 2018. So what are you waiting for? Become an apprentice today.

A fairway to the USA

"It was a great hands-on learning experience." – Daniel, Sports Turf Management apprentice

After completing a three-year apprenticeship in Sports Turf Management last year, Daniel won the prestigious 2018 Australian Golf Course Superintendents’ Association Graduate of the Year award, and will travel to the US on a fully-funded six-month educational sabbatical.

Daniel will have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to do a week of work experience at Muirfeld, a course designed by golfing legend Jack Nicklaus.

After completing his apprenticeship at Toronto Golf and Country Club he accepted an offer from Morisset Golf and Country Club and is now the course superintendent and second in charge. A meteoric rise through the ranks!

Daniel says TAFE NSW has excellent facilities, with a bowling green, tennis court, volleyball court, cricket pitch and oval, and two golf courses, and quality machinery in near-perfect condition.

Apprenticeship

Traineeship
What is an apprenticeship?

Apprenticeships offer you the best of work and study. You train on the job, study and earn an income all while working towards becoming a qualified tradesperson.
What is a traineeship?

Traineeships are similar to apprenticeships but they concentrate on vocational or job areas such as office administration, information technology or hospitality.
How long does it take?

An apprenticeship normally takes three to four years in traditional trade areas like carpentry, electrical, hairdressing and plumbing. Three to four years may seem like a long time, but remember you're working towards become fully qualified and getting hands-on experience, and you get paid for it.
How long does it take?

A traineeship lasts one to two years. You'll learn, work and earn and when you successfully complete you will receive (at a minimum) a Certificate II qualification.
Who can become an Apprentice?
  • You don't need a school certificate or any other qualification.
  • Year 10, 11 and 12 students, school leavers, people re-entering the workforce or professionals.
Who can become a Trainee?
  • You don't need a school certificate or any other qualification.
  • Year 10, 11 and 12 students, school leavers, people re-entering the workforce or professionals.
What's in it for you?
  • Paid employment under an appropriate industrial arrangement.
  • A training agreement between the employer and apprentice or trainee, which is registered with the NSW Department of industry.
  • Structured on-the-job training delivered by TAFE NSW.
  • A nationally recognised qualification.
  • Get a head start in your chosen career.
  • Study full-time or part-time or while still at school.

What is a School Based Apprenticeship or Traineeship?

School based apprenticeships and traineeships combine paid work, training and school. They are available to all Year 10, 11 and 12 high school students and you can work towards a nationally recognised qualification as part of your HSC and in some cases they could count towards your ATAR.

What's in it for you?

  • You'll get hands on industry experience, a qualification from TAFE NSW and your HSC.
  • You'll be paid while you learn.
  • Once you've completed a school based apprenticeship you can potentially commence in the second year of an apprenticeship when you leave school.

Pre-Apprenticeship courses

TAFE NSW offers a range of pre-apprenticeship courses in skills shortage areas, such as carpentry and automotive trades. These courses help you get into an apprenticeship faster and when you complete you’ll be able to finish your Certificate III apprenticeship qualification in less time.

We can also teach you basic skills to help you get a traineeship. For example, we offer a range of computer courses to help equip you with the basic computer skills that employers expect.

Your future starts today

Open doors to a new life with a School-Based Apprenticeship and Traineeship.

Explore now

Important Resources

Training Services NSW - information on industrial arrangements and certification requirements. In NSW, Vocational Training Orders (VTOs) describe in detail what you have to do to complete a particular apprenticeship or traineeship.

Australian Apprenticeships - information regarding Australian Apprenticeships including programs, employer incentives, support for apprentices, advice for people looking to start an apprenticeship.

Training Services NSW – information to help you with on-the-job training, your employer, rules and regulations, job descriptions, units of competency, trade certification and more.

Employing an Apprentice or Trainee – need a reason to employ an apprentice or trainee? We've got you covered.