School Based

What is a school based apprenticeship or traineeship?

A combination of school, off the job training (with a Registered Training Organisation) and paid work (with a host employer), that can gain you credit towards a nationally recognised qualification.

School-based apprenticeships and traineeships enable students to undertake an apprenticeship or traineeship while studying Years 10, 11 and 12. This gives them the opportunity to work towards a nationally recognised qualification while remaining at school.

Students generally spend one day per week in the workplace, however during school holidays, students may be available to work extra hours by mutual arrangement and negotiation between the student and the host employer.

Who can do a school based apprenticeship or traineeship?

Any Queensland student attending a recognised secondary school in either Years 10, 11 or 12. We also encourage you to undertake work experience in the vocation of your choice prior to entering the apprenticeship or traineeship.

What qualifications do I need to start a school based apprenticeship or traineeship?

For Years 11 and 12, minimum Year 10 passes in Maths and English.

For Year 10, reasonable results in Maths and English.

Will I get paid?.

A school based apprentice/trainee must do a minimum of 50 days of paid work per year. You will get paid according to the relevant award or workplace agreement covering the trade or occupation you have chosen.

NB school-based apprenticeships and traineeships which commenced or recommenced prior to 1 Jan 2013 have a min of 48 days per year. 

What can I expect during my Apprenticeship with Apprenticeships Queensland?

From AQ

As a community based, not-for-profit organisation, Apprenticeships Queensland exists solely to provide employment services for the people of Ipswich and the surrounding areas. If you become an AQ school based apprentice or trainee you can expect:

Commitment – our motto is “we work for YOU!” We have a dedicated team of people whose sole purpose is to provide you with the work and training opportunities you need to successfully complete your qualification.

Quality training – at AQ, we manage and monitor your college bookings and your progress. We provide advice and assistance if needed to make sure you have the skills necessary to achieve the levels of competency required by your vocation.

Variety of work – as a group training company, we have the flexibility to provide variety and continuity of work through our network of host employers.

Support – our employment consultants keep in regular contact through site visits to your place of work, phone, email and SMS. There is always someone available if you need help.

For the student

Students who have completed a school based apprenticeship or traineeship report the following benefits:

An alternative pathway to tertiary studies.
A nationally recognised industry qualification upon completion.
Practical hands-on experience.
Able to stay at school to complete Senior Certificate.
Experience a smooth school to work transition.
Opportunity to begin a career early.
Gain contacts and experience in the workforce.

Your school based apprenticeship/traineeship results are included on your Year 12 certificate in addition to your school results. As a school based apprentice or trainee, you are still eligible for a Queensland Certificate of Education.

At the end of year 12, school based apprentices will roll over into either full time or part time employment. The time already spent and the qualifications gained will be credited towards the full time/part time apprenticeship. School based trainees would have been expected to have completed their qualification prior to the end of Year 12.

School based apprenticeships and traineeships are an excellent means to develop work-related skills and gain a qualification while still at school, as well as increasing your readiness for the work force.