School Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships

What is an Australian School-based Apprenticeship/Traineeship (SBAT)?

A School-based Apprenticeship is a great way to start your career while completing your SACE especially in Year 10 or Year 11. There could be opportunities through your school or you may be successful at a work placement or part time employment. SBATs allow senior school students to combine paid work, training and school, while working towards their SACE and a nationally-recognised qualification. Students undertaking SBATs commence a Contract of Training through a part time Apprenticeship or Traineeship. They learn skills (competencies) on-the-job and through training with a Registered Training Organisation (RTO).

What are the benefits of undertaking a School-based Apprenticeship or Traineeship?

  • Getting a head start in your chosen job without competing with the rest of the school leavers in the state.
  • Earning credits as part of your training which accrue towards your SACE.
  • Starting your career and earning money while you are still at school.
  • Working towards or gaining a nationally-recognised qualification.
  • Gaining hands-on experience in a career-orientated job and have adult responsibility as a member of workforce.

Does an Australian School-Based Apprentice get paid?

Yes! The relevant Industry Award covers most School-based Apprenticeships. Students are paid for the time spent in the workplace.

How long does an Australian School Based Apprenticeship take to complete?

If the ASBA is not completed prior to the student completing SACE, students will continue on as a permanent employee until it is completed. Apprenticeships are now competency based, which means that if all the training is successfully completed and the employer believes the Apprentice or Trainee is competent in all areas, the Contract of Training can be ‘signed off’. Students commencing a Certificate III or Apprenticeships IV generally work part-time while still attending school, then continue full-time to complete the Apprenticeship when their schooling is finished (SACE is achieved).

How much time does a School-Based Apprentice spend away from school?

As facilitated by the school’s Apprenticeship Officer, the School-based Apprenticeship can be organised in a number of ways. It can be by working one or more days a week; on weekends; during school holidays or blocks of time (eg a number of weeks in a row). This is negotiated between the employer, the school and the student. At least eight hours per week on-the-job is required.

For more information on school based apprenticeship or traineeships, please contact the school to speak to the VET Coordinator.

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