Whether you're starting out, returning to work or changing careers, a pre‑apprenticeship can help you build the skills, knowledge and confidence employers want. It can be the first step toward an exciting trade career.
Why Choose a Pre‑Apprenticeship?
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 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
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 receive credits 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 school 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 shown commitment to training and who understand trade practices and terminology.
Applications for pre-apprenticeship courses open with our main course intakes – keep an eye on our key dates.
Courses will have entry requirements and some more popular courses can be competitive.
Applications for the PAiS Program can be made through our TAFE in School (VETDSS) program. The applications open in July each year for the following year.
Visit VET Delivered to Secondary Students (VETDSS) for more information.
Certificate II in Automotive Electrical Technology (Automotive Electrical Pre-Apprenticeship)
National ID AUR20420 | State ID AC29
Ignite your automotive electrical career.
When you complete this pre-apprenticeship course you'll have what employers are looking for in an apprentice automotive electrical technician.
- Midland
- Joondalup (Kendrew Crescent)
Study Modes
- On campus
Certificate II in Automotive Servicing Technology (Light Vehicle Servicing Pre-apprenticeship)
National ID AUR20520 | State ID AC33
Take your first steps on the road to getting an apprenticeship as a mechanic
This course will give you the skills, knowledge and behaviours, and a head start in learning a trade.
- Midland
Study Modes
- On campus
Certificate II in Building and Construction (Pathway - Trades) (Brick and Block Laying Pre-apprenticeship)
National ID 52893WA | State ID AD06
Get a great foundation for a bricklaying apprenticeship
You'll be set to take on an apprenticeship with basic skills in the use of tools and equipment, and working onsite under your belt.
- Clarkson
- Balga
Study Modes
- On campus
Certificate II in Building and Construction (Pathway - Trades) (Carpentry Pre-apprenticeship)
National ID 52893WA | State ID AD12
Are you keen to work in construction working with timber?
You'll be equipped with the basic skills to be able to take on a carpentry and joinery apprenticeship after you have completed this course.
- Balga
- Clarkson
Study Modes
- On campus
Certificate II in Building and Construction (Pathway - Trades) (Painting and Decorating Pre-apprenticeship)
National ID 52893WA | State ID AD10
Brush up on your skills and paint a bright future!
When you complete this pre-apprenticeship you'll be what employers are looking for in an apprentice painter and decorator.
- Balga
Study Modes
- On campus
Certificate II in Building and Construction (Pathway - Trades) (Solid Plastering Pre-apprenticeship)
National ID 52893WA | State ID AD07Get a great start in the building industry with this solid plastering course.
When you successfully complete this pre-apprenticeship you'll be equipped to start your career as an apprentice solid plasterer.
- Balga
Study Modes
- On campus
Certificate II in Building and Construction (Pathway - Trades) (Wall and Floor Tiling Pre-apprenticeship)
National ID 52893WA | State ID AD09
Show your creative side and learn to work with glass, ceramic, clay, and marble tiles in a range of settings
You'll have the skills employers want for an apprentice tiler when you complete this pre-apprenticeship course.
- Balga
- Clarkson
Study Modes
- On campus
Certificate II in Cabinet Making and Timber Technology (Cabinet Making and Timber Technology Pre-apprenticeship)
National ID MSF20322 | State ID AE17
Want a trades career making cherished chairs and loved lounges?
This course will help you to gain an apprenticeship in furniture or cabinet making. Cabinet makers work from plans or drawings to make furniture and fixtures for new homes, offices and shops.
- Balga
Study Modes
- On campus
Certificate II in Electrotechnology (Career Start) (Electrotechnology Pre-apprenticeship)
National ID UEE22025 | State ID AF02
Are you looking for an apprenticeship in the electrical trades?
After successfully completing this course you could be working as an apprentice in the electrical, instrumentation or electrical servicing trades
- Balga
- Midland
Study Modes
- On campus
Certificate II in Engineering Foundations (Engineering (General) Pre-apprenticeship)
National ID 52913WA | State ID AE29
Pre-Apprenticeship in Jewellery – Build Your Skills for the Industry
Start your journey into the jewellery industry with this hands-on pre-apprenticeship.
- Perth
Study Modes
- On campus