Apprenticeships and traineeships

Get paid while you train. An apprenticeship or traineeship lets you gain practical experience at work while learning in class. You’ll work towards a nationally recognised qualification.

Starting an apprenticeship or traineeship? Here are some ways to prepare:

Explore

• Take our Study Seeker Quiz
• Browse career options and job descriptions
• Explore TAFE NSW course areas
• Download the TAFE NSW career guide

Talk

Chat with an Apprenticeship Connect Australia Provider (ACAP) to:

• choose the right apprenticeship or traineeship
• find an employer
• access ongoing support and advice.

Discover

Search for apprenticeships and traineeships with:

• Workforce Australia
• State Government organisations
• Australian Apprenticeships.

Try before you commit

Not sure yet? Fee-free pre-apprenticeship and pre-traineeship courses let you test whether you’ve made the right choice for you. They also count towards your full qualification if you continue.

For more information, call us on 131 601 or visit the webpage below.

Your ACAP, employer and TAFE NSW will guide you through the process. You can start in February or July, depending on when you sign up with your ACAP.

The process is simple:

1. Sign your contract and Training Plan Proposal (TPP)
   Your ACAP will help you and your employer prepare these documents.
2. Your ACAP sends us your TPP
   This usually happens within 48 hours.
3. We review and approve your TPP
   We’ll check your course is available and return the signed TPP to your ACAP, usually within 2 weeks.
4. Enrol with TAFE NSW
   When enrolments open, we’ll confirm your place and send you an enrolment link or form. If you’re under 17, a parent or guardian must co-sign.
5. Your ACAP lodges your TPP and contract
   Your ACAP submits these to Training Services for approval, usually within 2 weeks.
6. Registration complete
   Once Training Services approves everything, your apprenticeship or traineeship is officially registered. You’ll receive a confirmation letter and Training ID.
7. Develop your Training Plan
   We’ll work with you and your employer to set key dates, assessments and milestones. This happens within 12 weeks of contract approval.

Once these steps are done, you’re ready to start learning on the job.

Fee-free apprenticeships

Skilled trades are in high demand across Australia. Now is the perfect time to start a fee-free apprenticeship. With student fees covered by the NSW Government, you can train for a rewarding career without the financial strain.

Apprenticeships combine practical training with formal study. You’ll gain real-world experience while earning a wage.

Smart and Skilled fee-free traineeship

Take advantage of 70,000 fee-free traineeships funded by the NSW Government until June 2027. Enrol at TAFE NSW, build in-demand skills and get job-ready – all with no student fees.

Traineeships blend structured learning with on-the-job training. You’ll develop practical skills while getting paid.

School-Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships (SBAT)

Get a head start on your career while completing your HSC. An SBAT at TAFE NSW lets you combine study with valuable workplace experience.

Whether you choose an apprenticeship or traineeship, you’ll earn while you learn, build industry connections and graduate with a nationally recognised qualification. Start your future today with TAFE NSW.

Have questions about apprenticeships or traineeships? Call 131 601 or send us an enquiry below.