Pre-apprenticeships

A pre-apprenticeship is a great way to explore whether a trade is the right fit for you. You’ll gain:

• Practical, hands-on skills
• Real workplace experience
• Industry-recognised training (usually a Certificate II)
• A pathway into an apprenticeship or traineeship
• A stronger résumé and a competitive edge when applying for jobs

Many of our courses also attract reduced fees under the Lower fees, local skills program - making now the perfect time to begin your training.

No, you do not need a pre-apprenticeship to start an apprenticeship. Some employers may prefer it as part of their selection process, but it is not a formal requirement. If you complete a pre-apprenticeship, you may also receive credit toward your apprenticeship training.

Our pre-apprenticeship courses usually take up to six months to complete (duration may vary—see individual course pages for details). Training includes:

• Classroom learning at TAFE
• Practical training in industry-standard facilities
• Work placement with an employer

During your placement, qualified staff will support you as you learn what day-to-day work in your chosen trade is like.

Completing a pre-apprenticeship can also shorten your apprenticeship, as many units may count toward your future training.

If you prefer hands-on work rather than office work, a trade career might be right for you. North Metropolitan TAFE offers pre-apprenticeships in high-demand industries to help increase your job opportunities.

PAiS Program – For Year 11 and 12 Students

The Pre-Apprenticeship in Schools (PAiS) program allows students to:

• Attend school while completing a Certificate II pre-apprenticeship
• Gain workplace experience with an employer
• Finish Year 12 with their WACE and a pre-apprenticeship qualification

Employers value applicants who have demonstrated commitment to training and understand trade practices and terminology.

Applications for pre-apprenticeship courses open with our main course intakes—keep an eye on key dates. Courses may have entry requirements, and some of the more popular courses can be competitive.

Applications for the PAiS program can be made through our TAFE in Schools (VETDSS) program. Applications open in July each year for the following year - see VET Delivered to Secondary Students (VETDSS) for more information.

What Are Pre-Apprenticeships?

Pre-apprenticeships prepare students for successful entry into an apprenticeship. They combine industry-specific training with practical experience to help students:

• Experience real workplace conditions
• Develop job-ready skills and behaviours
• Make informed career choices
• Build professional networks
• Transition smoothly into an apprenticeship

Students receive nationally accredited training plus hands-on experience—giving them a strong foundation for future employment.

What Does Hosting Involve?

• Students complete a 20-week training program at North Metropolitan TAFE
• Each student must undertake 4 weeks (150 hours) of on-the-job experience
• This placement builds confidence, competence, and workplace readiness

Why Host a Pre-Apprentice?

Hosting a student benefits your business by allowing you to:

• Showcase your workplace as an employer of choice
• Access motivated, pre-screened candidates
• Meet skills needs and identify future apprentices
• Reduce training time—students often complete 3–6 units before entering an apprenticeship
• Strengthen your talent pipeline and complement your recruitment strategy

Ready to Get Involved?

If you can support a student placement, please complete our Expression of Interest form: Pre-Apprentice Placement – Expression of Interest.(opens in a new tab)

If you indicate that you may offer an apprenticeship after the placement, your details may be shared with suitable candidates who complete their pre-apprenticeship.

Once your Expression of Interest is submitted, the relevant Pre-Apprenticeship Coordinator will contact you to discuss the process and next steps.