School-based apprenticeships are a great way to get a better start to working life. By bridging the gap between school and work, young apprentices are able to ease their way into employment while at school, often on a part-time basis, before plunging into an exciting and rewarding career.
The ability to get paid while still in the final years of education is certainly attractive to young jobseekers, and there are great benefits for employers too, including financial incentives.
This is why the Queensland Government is set on promoting school-based apprenticeships for the continued development of Australia’s workforce, as seen this month in a state announcement.
The Government says that thousands of young Queenslanders will have greater opportunities as employers are given more incentives for finding a school-based apprentice.
Addressing skill shortages
In the December 1 announcement, Premier Campbell Newman said apprenticeships are in a prime position to meet skill shortages in Queensland.
“Addressing skill shortages is vital for the economic prosperity of our great state,” he explained. Mr Newman continued to say that the government is committing more time, energy and resources through “a range of targeted training initiatives”.
These initiatives are designed to encourage employers to hire an apprentice or trainee and retain them in a full-time apprenticeship once they finish their studies. The Queensland Premier said the state plans to do more to help.
“Thousands of jobs are already being created … but there is more to do and we know that improving prospects for our students is the best way to give them a brighter future,” he concluded.
School graduates find work
Jack Portelli, a graduate from Mareeba State High School, recently began working as a full-time apprentice at Harvest Mareeba, after previously working there part-time as a school-based apprentice.
Mr Portelli is now undertaking a Certificate III in the engineering mechanical trade, where he provides maintenance to sugar cane cutters and ensures the farming machines operate at full capacity over the harvesting season.
Speaking in a Queensland government media release, the young apprentice said his school-based learning allowed him to develop his skills and ultimately find employment in his home town.
“It gets you off to a great start and gives you some real focus and direction. I am very happy I did it,” he explained. His advice to other young people looking into the possibility of starting a school-based apprenticeship? “Just go for it.”
Help starting a school-based apprenticeship program
BUSY At Work is a non-profit designed to assist employers in finding an apprentice, as well as helping jobseekers discover their ideal careers.
Financial incentives can be unlocked from hiring apprentices of certain ages – ranging from those on school-based initiatives to mature age apprenticeships.
To find out how we help apprentices and employers to make such programs as simple and effective as possible, get in touch and we’ll help you every step of the way.
By Leanne de Toerkenczy, Public Relations Coordinator.
