School-based apprenticeships and traineeships (SBATs) allow you to begin your career early by blending school with on-the-job training and vocational study.

SBATs are accessible to secondary school students who:

  • are above 15 years of age
  • are enrolled in Years 10, 11, or 12
  • are Australian citizens or permanent residents.

SBATs provide students with the opportunity to combine:

  • part-time work
  • school
  • training.

How do SBATs work?

Through an SBAT, you can work towards a nationally recognised qualification by the end of Year 12 while earning an income.

SBATs are completed by students enrolled in VCE or VCE VM, where at least one day per week is designated for on-the-job training or education within the regular school week.

TAFE Gippsland, together with the employer and the apprentice or trainee, in consultation with the secondary school, develop a training plan with vocational training segments of SBATs also contributing credits towards a student's VCE.

To learn more about local SBAT opportunities, speak with your school’s career advisor.

Head Start Apprenticeship or Traineeship (HSAT)

Head Start is an organisation that supports SBATs in finishing their apprenticeships or traineeships.

An apprentice or trainee in the Head Start program will receive support from a Head Start coordinator who will communicate with TAFE Gippsland, the employer and the school to make sure all parties understand what is expected of the apprentice/trainee and provide ongoing support.

This program is accessible in all government schools to support all SBATs.

Visit Head Start apprenticeships and traineeships Victorian Government for more information.