The Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle Catholic Schools Office is very proud to be able to offer students in secondary schools, the opportunity to study a range of Vocational Education and Training (VET) courses.
VET is a recognised option for students to gain technical knowledge and workplace skills to assist their transition to the world of work. This assists students to determine, at an early stage, if they are suited to and would like to follow particular career pathways.
Across the diocese, schools offer courses in:
- Primary Industries
- Business Services
- Construction
- Electrotechnology
- Entertainment Industry
- Hospitality
- Retail Services
- Sports Coaching
Please note, not all courses are offered at each school. To find out the exact courses offered at each school, contact the school and ask for the Leader of learning/VET Coordinator.
All courses are dual accredited for the HSC as well as allowing students to continue their Nationally Recognised Training Qualification with TAFE, private providers or in some courses a credit towards their university entry. Most courses are at a Certificate II level, but some provide a Statement of Attainment towards a Certificate III.
All courses are delivered at industry standard, students can be confident that they will be delivered by highly trained teachers using equipment that is in line with current industry facilities.
In addition, students may also be supported to access Externally delivered VET (EVET) courses (through providers such as TAFE) if this curriculum choice suits their needs.
All VET courses provide practical and hands-on approaches to learning that are enjoyed by many students. All students are required to do the equivalent of one week on-the-job work placement each year. This provides the opportunity to apply their skills in a real world setting and some students may gain ongoing part-time employment.
Students and parents/caregivers are encouraged to discuss their VET questions with the Careers Adviser and Leader of Learning/VET Coordinator at their school.
School Based
Apprenticeships and Traineeships
School-based apprenticeships and traineeships (SBATs)are more than just part-time jobs – they’re a great way to set yourself up for the career you want whilst you are completing your HSC.
School Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships SBATs) are available to Year 10, 11 and 12 high school students in NSW. They allow students to commence a traineeship or apprenticeship while at school.
School based apprentices and trainees work part-time. A school-based apprenticeship or traineeship (SBAT) combines paid work, training, and school; as well as an industry recognised national qualification.
Features of a School Based Apprenticeship
- Complete stage one of a Certificate III trade qualification by the end of the HSC year
- Undertake a minimum of 100 days paid work over two years
- Attend training with TAFE NSW or a private Registered Training Provider
Features of a School Based Traineeship
- Complete a Certificate II or III qualification by the end of the HSC year
- Undertake a minimum of 100 days paid work over two years
- Attend training with TAFE NSW or a private Registered Training Provider
What is possible?
Opportunities are available across a wide range of occupations. School Based Apprenticeships are available in a number of qualifications including; Automotive, baking, carpentry, electrotechnology, plumbing, retail butcher.
School Based Traineeships are available in many qualifications including; Aged Care, Financial Services, Retail, Business and Hospitality.
Looking for something else? Visit About SBATs (nsw.gov.au) for more options.
Is a school-based apprenticeship or traineeship the right option for me?
When considering if a SBAT pathway is a suitable option, students, parents, schools, and the RTO, must ensure they are doing so for the right reasons. This is not an ‘easy’ option and is a commitment to ensure successful completion.
Want more information? Speak with your Careers Adviser about starting a school-based apprenticeship or traineeship.
VET Student of the Year
This award recognises the achievements of a Year 12 student who has excelled in their area of Vocational Education. This is not an ‘academic’ award issued to a student for achieving the top mark in a VET examination.
Schools are invited to put forward one nominee for this award, to be determined by their own internal processes.
Learn more
