How Do I Get a School-based Apprenticeship?

Students can start Australian school-based traineeships and apprenticeships in their final two or three years of high school, where they will work one day a week while completing their studies.

As well as gaining valuable on the job experience, the apprentice or trainee will finish high school with a nationally recognised qualification, usually a Certificate II or III.

Is a School-based apprenticeship or traineeship right for me?

School-based qualifications can be a valuable head start in your future career, very often rolling over into a full time apprenticeship or traineeship once school is over. This will give you an advantage over other job seekers looking to start an apprenticeship as you’ve already got the basics down, and built a relationship with the employer!

Even if you choose not to continue onto a full time apprenticeship or traineeship, you’ve still got that qualification and experience behind you which will stay with you for life.

If you want to complement your high school studies and get some real world experience, a school-based qualification could be for you.

What can I do school-based work in?

A school-based qualification can be in Automotive, Engineering Production and Business Administration, amongst others. You’ll attend the workplace once a week instead of going to school, and there will also be some TAFE work you’ll need to complete as well.

The best part is that you’ll be paid for the time you’re in the workplace!

So how do I get one?

1. Talk to your parent or guardian

Starting a school-based qualification is a significant commitment as it will take time away from school and your studies. If you’re thinking about pursuing one, talking to your parent or guardian about it would be the first step.

If you’re under the age of 18 (which is likely), you’d need appropriate parental permission to start working and miss school.

2. Talk to your school career counsellor or teacher

Your school may already have a relationship with a company (such as MIGAS) that can help you into a school-based position. If you are to enter a school-based qualification, it would need to be organised in agreement with your school and with the business involved.

3. Contact a company like MIGAS (a GTO or an AASN)

If your school doesn’t have an established school-based training program, you can apply directly with companies such as MIGAS for available positions and we’ll arrange things with your school for you.

4. Interview time!

If you find a position you like, you’ll need to go through the normal job application process, including submitting a resume, interviewing with the employer and undergoing relevant aptitude testing. We’ve got heaps of resume writing and interviewing tips if you need help.

Be sure to check out our Career Information Portal for trade information, and read about the apprenticeships in demand.

MIGAS has dedicated Field Officers and Community Liaisons visiting schools and careers expos to promote trade and vocational career pathways to students and job seekers.

If you want us to visit your school or would like more information, contact your local MIGAS office.

Keep an eye on our jobs board as positions are made available all the time.