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.
SBAT’s are available to Year 10, 11 and 12 high school students in NSW. They allow students to commence a traineeship or apprenticeship combining part-time paid work and training while they’re at school.
At the end of their course students gain an industry-recognised national qualification and achieve credit towards the HSC.
Want more information? Speak with your Careers Adviser about starting a school-based apprenticeship or traineeship.
Features of a School Based Apprenticeship and Traineeship
- 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
How long will it take a school-based apprentice to qualify as a tradesperson?
Typically, a school-based apprentice undertakes a two-year HSC program, which will result in the apprentice completing the first year of their trade qualification. After completing the HSC, the apprentice will have between 2 and 3 years of full-time employment as an apprentice, depending on the qualification.
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.
How will a school-based apprenticeship/traineeship fit in with my HSC?
The formal training undertaken by a school-based apprentice or trainee generally contributes a minimum of 4 units towards the HSC. Additional HSC unit credit may be applicable for both school-based apprenticeship and traineeship courses, depending on the qualification.
School-based apprentices and trainees may also elect to undertake the Industry-Based Learning that can contribute up to 4 additional units of HSC credit. Assessment of these units is based on evidence of industry-based skills built up through paid employment as an apprentice or trainee during the HSC years.
Further information on school-based apprenticeships and traineeships in the HSC is available on the Vocational Education and Training section of the NSW Education Standards Authority website at: Vocational Education & Training
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.
Hear about Gabrielle’s School Based Traineeship, Certificate III Fitness with F45 Cessnock.
Hear about Lurneah’s School Based Traineeship, studying Certificate III Business with Hunter New England Local Health District Multicultural and Refugee Service.
