Training provides you with the ability to get ahead. It allows you to find employment and develop a rewarding career. Should one want to work in some trade, then one would have to pursue a pre-apprenticeship or an apprenticeship.
What is a pre-apprenticeship?
A pre-apprenticeship gives you a chance to test the trade. You learn the fundamentals within a short period of time. Most of these courses are 12 to 20 weeks long. You typically end up with a Certificate II qualification.
You don’t have to be employed to begin a pre-apprenticeship. A lot of students finish it in school. Some pre-apps also qualify under Free TAFE, and you may not need to pay any fees.
Pre-apprenticeships make you more confident and capable. They demonstrate to employers that you’re committed. You have to be in a trade while you ask for an apprenticeship.
What is an Apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship comes next. You need to get an employer first. You sign a training contract with them and a training provider.
You work and study simultaneously. Some attend TAFE one day per week. Others study in blocks of time and work the rest of the week.
Your trainer verifies if you can finish each task. There are no grades—just complete or not.
After completing, you have a nationally accredited qualification. You can then go on to work within the industry or train again.
Why It Matters
A pre-apprenticeship sets you up for actual work. An apprenticeship gets you further. You are paid while you learn and get actual job experience. Both options can lead you to a solid future.