Get started as a school-based apprentice or trainee
Step 1: Choose the right apprenticeship or traineeship
Browse the A–Z of apprenticeships or A–Z of traineeships on the Queensland Training Information Service website to find one that will interest you.
You can also visit career websites such as:
Step 2: Talk to your school
You and your parent or guardian will need to talk to your school to ensure your school-based apprenticeship or traineeship (SAT) is appropriate for your overall school program. You cannot start without the support of your school.
Step 3: Find an employer
Your school should be able to help you with this.
Read about how to find an employer.
Step 4: Choose your training partners
Work with an Australian Apprenticeships Centre
Australian Apprenticeships Centres (AACs) provide a free service designed to help you and your employer throughout your SAT.
You and your employer must contact a local AAC to help you to complete a training contract—an agreement to work and train together for a length of time. You can also call 13 38 73 to find your local AAC.
A training contract is a legally binding record outlining the roles and responsibilities of both you and your employer. This must be done with the consent of your school and be signed by your parent or guardian if you are under 18.
Your AAC will also be able to advise you and your employer about any financial help that is available.
Choose a supervising registered training organisation
Supervising registered training organisations (SRTOs) are registered training organisations (such as a TAFE or private registered training organisation) who deliver training and assessment to an apprentice or trainee under a training contract.
If required, your AAC can help you choose a suitable SRTO.
You can also:
- visit the Queensland Training Information Service
- contact Apprenticeships Info on 1800 210 210.
The SRTO will:
- help develop a training plan
- deliver the training
- assess your achievement of skills
- issue the qualification on successful completion.
Step 5: Get started
Complete the paperwork
Your AAC will lodge the training contract with the Department of Education, Training and Employment, who will register and oversee the SAT.
Your SRTO will then work with all parties to create a training plan that outlines:
- what you will learn
- where you will learn it
- how you will be trained
- how and when you will be assessed.
Use the probation to be sure
Probation is a 'trial' period when you work and train with your employer—before each of you decide whether to continue.
Probation begins on your first day and usually lasts 90 days for apprentices and 30 days for trainees.
More information
Read about responsibilities of students and parents.
