What is a school-aged learner apprenticeship or traineeship?

A school-based apprenticeship or traineeship enables a year 10, 11 and 12 student to combine work and training to achieve a nationally recognised qualification, while still attending school and working toward their Tasmanian Certificate of Education (TCE).

With over 140 approved qualifications to choose from in Tasmania, a school-based apprenticeship or traineeship can provide a pathway into a career in a trade or other vocation, giving you a head start in your chosen career. It also provides employers with the opportunity to start training their future workforce from an early age.

Key things to keep in mind when considering a school-based apprenticeship or traineeship:

• You need to commit to the full term of the training contract. Some qualifications are able to be completed while at school, however many of the higher level qualifications, particularly in the trade areas, continue past the end of year 12.
• You must attend school when you are timetabled to do so and attend training with your nominated Registered Training Organisation (RTO) as per your Training Plan.
• You will work a minimum of 7.5 hours a week in the workplace. This can be one or two days at work in school time or after school hours and on the weekend. There may be an expectation that you will work additional hours in term breaks. You will be paid for any training in the workplace or off-site.

These requirements are in addition to the general conditions of an apprenticeship or traineeship.

Next steps

If you are a student interested in becoming a school-based apprentice or trainee, talk to your school's Australian School-based Apprenticeships (ASbA) Facilitator or contact your school for more information on what is offered at your school. You can also find information about the program on the  Department for Education, Children and Young People website.

Employers looking to sign-up an apprentice or trainee should contact an Apprenticeship Network Provider (ANP).

Staff from the Department of Education ASbA Team are also available to answer any questions or concerns regarding school-based apprenticeships and traineeships - you can contact them on (03) 6165 5404 or by email at asba.admin@decyp.tas.gov.au