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School-based apprenticeships are like standard apprenticeships but can be undertaken on a part-time basis during the apprentice’s final years of secondary school. This structure allows the apprentice to earn a wage, partake in supervised training, and work towards a nationally recognised qualification while earning their high school certificate.
If you or someone you know is eager to begin their career by balancing school and training, here’s how to get school-based apprenticeships in QLD.
What is a school-based apprenticeship?
A school-based apprenticeship is an arrangement that allows high-school students (usually those in Years 11 and 12) to receive training and work as paid employees while studying their senior certificate. School-based apprenticeships are typically facilitated through employment and a registered training organisation.
Any employment and training arrangements must influence the student’s school timetable for the program to be considered school based.
Who can do a school-based apprenticeship or traineeship?
School based apprenticeships and traineeships are for high school students, typically those in Year 11 or 12, to help them receive training as paid employees while studying for their senior certificate.
How do I find a school-based apprenticeship?
Talk to your parents
If you’re under 18, you’ll need the consent of your parent or guardian before starting your apprenticeship training. You probably won’t be able to begin your apprenticeship unless your parents are on board, so it’s important to talk to them about it.
This rule applies to almost all school-based apprenticeships, although exemptions are available in some circumstances. For example, parental consent may not be required if the apprentice already lives independently despite still being at school.
Notify your school
You must have your school’s support before starting a school-based apprenticeship. Even though you’ll continue to attend classes, your timetable will need to be altered to allow room for your apprenticeship training.
You school will be able to help you negotiate a schedule that outlines how you’ll divide your time between work and your apprenticeship. This schedule should show where you’ll be on what days and will need to meet minimum training requirements while still allowing you enough time to complete your high school certificate.
Find an Employer
Once you’ve got the support of your parents and school, you’ll need to find an employer willing to take you on as an apprentice. Prior to reaching out to potential employers, carefully consider the qualification you want to earn and the kind of working environment you’re looking for. After finding a suitable employer, you’ll be required to sign a training contract. This contract legally binds the employer and the student for the duration of the apprenticeship, so it’s essential to carefully weigh up your options before committing.
Work with a Registered Training Provider
You and your employer will likely need to work with a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) to facilitate your school-based apprenticeship. The RTO will help you and your employer develop a suitable training plan which outlines training obligations, when and where the training will occur, who will provide the training, and how your progress will be assessed.
RTOs play a crucial role in ensuring apprentices have access to the practical and theory training they need to meet their qualification’s requirements.
What school-based apprenticeship programs can I enrol in?
If you’re ready to enrol in a school-based apprenticeship, Major Training offers the following courses:
- Certificate III in Carpentry (CPC30211)
- Certificate III in Painting and Decorating (CPC30611)
- Certificate II in Civil Construction (RII20715)
- Certificate III in Concreting (CPC30318)
- Certificate III in Engineering – Fabrication Trade (MEM30305*)
- Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade (MEM30205*)
- Certificate III in Warehousing Operations (TLI31616)
- Certificate III in Civil Construction (CPC30915*)
*This qualification has been superseded, the new units code may be implemented prior to completion.
For more information on how to enrol in a school-based apprenticeship with Major Training, speak with our friendly team by calling 1300 790 822, or enquire online today.
