Australian Apprenticeships

Australian Apprenticeships: an important learning pathway for young people

What are Australian Apprenticeships?

Australian Apprenticeships (often referred to as traineeships and apprenticeships) are a great career option. They combine practical work with structured training to give you a nationally recognised qualification and the experience you need to get the job you want.

Training is flexible and can be on the job, off the job or a combination of both. Australian Apprenticeships are available at a variety of qualification levels in most occupations, including traditional trades and a wide range of emerging industry sectors.

You don’t have to wait until you leave school to get started. Australian School-based Apprenticeships are now offered by many schools, giving students the option of starting one while still at school.

Success Story
Here is an example of someone who has discovered the benefits of doing an Australian Apprenticeship.

Evan Brett: Certificate IV in Community Services Work

Evan, a teacher’s aide for young adults with special needs, has a remarkable sense of integrity and natural empathy for someone of his age. At 23, Evan was deeply concerned that adolescents with disabilities were not being given the time and resources required for them to enjoy a successful transition from home to independent living.

With a goal in mind to ‘make a difference’, Evan completed a vocational qualification through TAFE Tasmania while working at The Don College in Devonport, Tasmania.

“After completing Year 12, I felt I needed time to re-evaluate my goals. I embarked on working in the retail industry, where I realised that people with disabilities were not able to access an equitable retail service. Through this insight I enrolled in a Certificate IV in Community Services Work with a particular focus on disability support,” Evan said.

Evan now makes a difference to the lives of young people with special needs every day and was rewarded with the accolade of Australian Apprentice (Trainee) of the Year Award at the 2007 Australian Training Awards.

In his spare time Evan is a volunteer swimming coach with Special Olympics Tasmania.