Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships: A strong start to a career

For students who have a clear idea of their career path after school, an apprenticeship can be an excellent way to transition into the workforce while continuing to gain qualifications. Apprenticeships combine practical, on-the-job training with formal study, offering a balanced and supported start to a career. Heathfield High School currently have a number of students undertaking school-based apprenticeship in a range of industries including construction, horticulture and landscaping, electrical, plumbing and hairdressing. 

School-Based and Full-Time Apprenticeships 

Apprenticeships can be undertaken in two formats: 

  • School-Based Apprenticeships: Students spend 1 to 3 days per week in the workplace, with the remaining time spent at school on a balanced timetable. 
  • Full-Time Apprenticeships: Students leave school and begin working full time with an employer. 

In both cases, the school works closely with the student, their family, and the employer to ensure the arrangement supports the student’s individual pathway and long-term goals. 

Qualifications and SACE Credits 

When a student begins an apprenticeship, they are enrolled in a Certificate III qualification relevant to their industry. Over the course of the apprenticeship, students complete required competencies and can earn up to 150 Stage 2 SACE credits.

Did you know: A student can undertake a full-time apprenticeship in Year 12 and still complete their SACE. This flexible approach allows students to earn while they learn, without sacrificing their SACE completion.

How to find an apprenticeship 

Students interested in an apprenticeship are encouraged to start by exploring opportunities through: 

  • Job-seeker websites such as Seek 
  • Local businesses and community connections 

Before committing to an apprenticeship, students are encouraged to undertake a work experience placement with the potential employer. This helps ensure the role is the right fit for both the student and the business. Work experience paperwork must be completed prior to undertaking the placement. 

Apprenticeship sign up process 

  1. Student connects with an employer who is seeking an apprentice.
  2. A work experience trial is organised at a suitable time for the employer/student/school.
  3. Work experience paperwork is completed by the family/employer/school.
  4. Student completes work experience and student/employer want to move forward with apprenticeship.
  5. Student/family and employer complete the 1285 pre-apprenticeship form.
  6. School coordinates a formal apprenticeship sign up meeting with student, family, employer and Apprenticeship Network Provider (APN).
  7. Formal apprenticeship sign up meeting takes place and student’s apprenticeship start date is set.
  8. School liaises with student and family to balance student’s workload to support apprenticeship pathway (where applicable).

Learn More 

For more information, please contact the school’s VET Coordinator at dl.0926.vet@schools.sa.edu.au