A pre-apprenticeship is a course that will help you prepare for a registered apprenticeship and learn some basic skills at the same time. It is your chance to experience the industry before committing to a full apprenticeship. By offering an insight into what a career may look like, you can decide if the trade is something you want to pursue.
Registered training organisations like TAFE offer this entry-level training as a certificate II for secondary students, school leavers and mature-aged students. Read on to learn everything you need to know about pre-apprenticeships, the pre-apprenticeships we offer at TAFE Gippsland, eligibility, benefits and how to find the right pre-apprenticeship for you.
Difference between a pre-apprenticeship and an apprenticeship
Pre-apprenticeship
A pre-apprenticeship is an introductory course that allows you to get a taste of an industry before you commit to a full apprenticeship. In a pre-apprenticeship course you will learn the fundamental skills of a trade with practical and hands-on lessons to help you decide if it is the right career path for you. Unlike a full apprenticeship of up to three years, a pre-apprenticeship will usually take between 12 and 20 weeks. Some pre-apprenticeships give credits towards an apprenticeship in the same field. We examine pre-apprenticeship eligibility, course timeframes and costs in more detail.
Eligibility for pre-apprenticeship
- As part of a VET subject (Vocational Education and Training) in secondary school.
- You must be at least 15 years old and enrolled in school. If you are under 18, you may require permission from a parent or guardian.
- School leavers who have completed school and are looking to take a course to enter the workforce. They must be over 15 years of age.
- Some pre-apprenticeship courses require the applicant to be over 18 years of age. These courses will specify a specific age group in the description.
Course timeframes
- Pre-apprenticeship courses can take anywhere from four weeks to two years to complete, depending on the field of study.
Cost
- Fees and charges for subsidised and unsubsidised students are available on the TAFE website. However, some pre-apprenticeship pathways are eligible for Free TAFE. There may be some small costs associated with the course, such as amenity fees, books or materials or student services. Ask your course provider for specific information on fees or additional costs.
Apprenticeship
An apprenticeship is a course that combines study and work, then upon completion, a recognised qualification. It is a commitment to learning about working in an industry through hands-on experience and academic study. Let’s examine apprenticeship eligibility, course timeframes and costs in more detail.
Eligibility for apprenticeship
- Anyone over the age of 15 years is eligible for most apprenticeships. If you are under 18, you may need approval from a parent or guardian. This applies to school leavers and those still at school, undertaking a school based apprenticeship course.
- An Australian citizen or permanent resident.
- A visa holder or temporary resident may be eligible to start an apprenticeship if they meet the specific requirements from the Department of Home Affairs.
If you are seeking an apprenticeship with full-time or part-time hours.
Course timeframes
- An apprenticeship typically takes one to four years to complete.
Cost
- In most cases, a student will not be responsible for the training costs. Under the contract signed with an employer, the employer usually pays the fees.
Benefits of pre-apprenticeships
Pre-apprenticeships give you an insight into an industry, but there are so many other benefits to be gained. Here are some advantages of doing a pre-apprenticeship course.
- Don’t need to secure an employer. Unlike an apprenticeship, you don’t need to find someone to employ you to undertake a pre-apprenticeship.
- No fees. Tuition fees will be covered for eligible students in some pre-apprenticeships priority courses.
- Quick qualification. A pre-apprenticeship is a great way to earn a qualification quickly. Most certificate II courses can be completed in six to 12 months.
- Insight into an industry. By completing a pre-apprenticeship, you gain knowledge of what it is like to work in an industry before committing to a full-time apprenticeship. This can help you decide if this is the right career for you to pursue.
- Learn new skills. You can learn the basic skills and how to use and maintain equipment properly. It will make you more confident in your ability to handle the tasks of a specific trade.
- Be prepared for the workforce. A pre-apprenticeship course teaches workplace safety requirements and an understanding of procedures and policies. This valuable information will help you prepare for the industry and succeed in your chosen field.
- Gain credit for apprenticeship. Some apprenticeships give you credits for the study you complete. This can shorten the amount of time your apprenticeship will take.
- Better chance of getting an apprenticeship. Employers are impressed with the initiative of completing a pre-apprenticeship, which will boost your chances of securing an apprenticeship.
- Looks impressive on CV. Some pre-apprenticeship courses include work experience, which can look impressive on a CV for potential employers.
- Build a network of contacts. A pre-apprenticeship will help you build a network of industry contacts via work placement, teachers or other students in the course. Having a network of contacts is a valuable tool when looking for employment.
Types of pre-apprenticeships
Pre-apprenticeship programs exist in a wide variety of industries, from hairdressing, painting and decorating to mechanical, building and construction. Each course provides hands-on industry experience.
Pre-apprenticeship courses on offer
TAFE Gippsland offers pre-apprenticeship courses as certificate II courses. These courses provide introductory skills and help you prepare for the work environment in your chosen industry.
Certificate II in Building and Construction (Painting and Decorating)
If you are interested in a career in the building trade but are unsure where to start, a Certificate II in Building and Construction (Painting and Decorating) is the perfect course. In the course you will learn painting skills, how to be a consultant, adviser, project manager and craftsperson. The course covers health and safety and the use of hand and power tools through practical tasks. You will learn communication, teamwork, planning and organisational skills.
- Course length: 34 weeks
- Entry requirements: Must be over 15 years of age
- Qualification: Certificate II in Building and Construction Pre-apprenticeship
Certificate II in Automotive Vocational Preparation - VDSS
Learn the fundamentals of automotive vehicles, how to service and repair minor faults on automotive vehicle engines, transmissions, suspensions, steering, brakes and electrical systems and components. This pre-apprenticeship course is a valuable step towards gaining an apprenticeship in the automotive industry. It is part of a VET program, delivered to secondary schools.
- Course length: 2 years
- Entry requirements: Secondary school VET program participants
- Qualification: Certificate II in Automotive Vocational Preparation - VDSS
Certificate II in Animal Care
This course is ideal if you love animals and are considering a career in the animal care industry. You will learn basic animal handling, first aid and skills to care for animals. The course includes classroom learning, excursions and industry visits. After completing the course, you will have the skills and knowledge required to care for animals in workplaces such as animal shelters, kennels, catteries, sanctuaries and veterinary clinics.
- Course length: 6 months
- Entry requirements: Must be over 15 years of age. It is recommended that participants have access to two different species of animals in order to meet assessment requirements. Physical fitness is also recommended to safely handle animals in the workplace
- Qualification: Certificate II in Animal Care
Certificate II in Construction Pathways
If you want to secure an apprenticeship in the construction sector, this course is ideal. It gives a valuable insight into what a career in trades such as carpentry, painting and bricklaying entails. The course focus is on practical, hands-on learning and provides a real feel for the industry, along with credits towards an apprenticeship.
- Course length: 12 weeks
- Entry requirements: Must be over 15 years of age
- Qualification: Certificate II in Construction Pathways
Certificate II in Electrotechnology (Career Start) - VDSS
This course is part of the VET program in secondary schools, and teaches entry level practical skills to students wishing to commence a career as an electrician. Students will gain an overview of workplace practical skills involving basic hand and power tool use and the necessary knowledge to enter a career in the electrotechnology industry with confidence. It will also provide an advantage to students seeking an apprenticeship in this area as a preferred pre-requisite for many industries.
- Course length: 2 years
- Entry requirements: Secondary school VET program participants
- Qualification: Certificate II in Electrotechnology - VDSS
Certificate II in General Education for Adults ( ADF preparation)
If you’re looking for an opportunity to join the Australian Defence Force (ADF), this course is the perfect platform to help you chase your career goals and pursue your passions. It was designed, after consultation with the ADF, to enable access to the widest range of opportunities by the nature of its varied units. It offers core units of English, maths and projects, as well as science and IT electives. On completion, you will have valuable skills and knowledge to enhance apprenticeship opportunities within the ADF.
- Course length: 6 months
- Entry requirements: Recommended for adults between 18 and 24 years of age
- Qualification: Certificate II in General Education for Adults (ADF Preparation)
Certificate II in Security Operations
This course is the perfect starting point if you want to work in the security industry. It will help you gain the knowledge required to undertake routine security officer duties and develop skills in planning, organising and working with others or as an individual. This course may lead to employment as a licensed security officer and will provide an opportunity to apply for a variety of roles across several business sectors.
- Course length: 4 weeks
- Entry requirements: Must be over 18 years of age
- Qualification: Certificate II in Security Operations
Certificate II in Plumbing
This plumbing pre-apprenticeship prepares students with the skills and knowledge for entry into an apprenticeship in Certificate III in Plumbing. This qualification offers a range of units including working safely as part of a team, measurements and calculations, basic terminology, reading plans and specifications, plumbing tools and equipment, basic welding and fixtures and fittings. This qualification also provides credits into an apprenticeship. It is offered to students who are taking part in the secondary school VET program.
- Course length: 2 years
- Entry requirements: Secondary school VET program participants
- Qualification: Certificate II in Plumbing (Pre-Apprenticeship) - VDSS
Certificate II in Cookery
If a career in hospitality appeals or perhaps working towards being a cook, this pre-apprenticeship course is ideal. It will provide the introductory level skills and knowledge required to work in a busy kitchen environment. Your training will take place in a first class training restaurant, providing you the opportunity to be hands on and practise your skills on real customers. As part of the VET program, the course is for anyone who has a genuine interest in the hospitality sector.
- Course length: 2 years
- Entry requirements: Secondary school VET program participants
- Qualification: Certificate II in Cookery - VDSS
Certificate II in Hospitality
This course is ideal if you are undertaking a VET program and looking to learn entry-level skills required for employment within hospitality venues. The unit focuses on safe food handling, responsible service of alcohol, customer service, cash handling and a large range of practical tasks, including food service, espresso coffee, serving of beverages and interaction with customers in a café environment. Once completed, you will be able to perform basic tasks under direct supervision and be job ready for casual, part-time or full-time employment in hospitality venues.
- Course length: 2 years
- Entry requirements: Secondary school VET program participants
- Qualification: Certificate II in Hospitality - VDSS
Certificate II in Integrated Technology
If you have an interest in integrated technology, this course is ideal as an entry level introduction. It includes basic electrical theory, electronic components, programmable logic devices, computer programming, 3D printing and applied design. You will gain the foundation skills needed for the field of automation and robotics. Students taking part in the VET program through school can simultaneously take steps towards an eventual career in the integrated technology field with this certificate.
- Course length: 2 years
- Entry requirements: Secondary school VET program participants
- Qualification: Certificate II in Integrated Technology(3D Printing and Robotics) - VDSS
A pre-apprenticeship is a great way to get a taste of an industry and improve your skills. Pre-apprenticeships are available for school students, school leavers and mature-aged students in
a variety of industries.
Often, a pre-apprenticeship is a stepping stone to a full-time apprenticeship and career. TAFE Gippsland has an extensive list of pre-apprenticeship courses to choose from. For information on study pathways like pre-apprenticeships, contact TAFE Gippsland today.