Are you or someone you know keen to start a career in trades but you’re unsure of where to begin? Consider trying a pre-apprenticeship program.

While not mandatory, these courses can improve your chances of success in an apprenticeship. They offer valuable hands-on experience; help you discover your interests, and provide essential skills like teamwork and communication.

Plus, you’ll gain access to industry connections and ongoing support, making your transition into a full apprenticeship smoother and more confident.

AGA offers pre-apprenticeship courses in fields such as Automotive, Plumbing and Building and Construction.

In this guide, we’ll explore the benefits of a pre-apprenticeship and how they can help you kickstart your career in a trade.

What’s a pre-apprenticeship?

Pre-apprenticeship courses are pathways to apprenticeships and are usually offered by Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) and Apprenticeship and Employment Services (AES) like AGA.

These short training programs are designed to prepare you for a successful apprenticeship by combining classroom learning with hands-on experience.

When you complete a pre-apprenticeship, you’ll gain a Nationally Recognised Qualification and develop practical skills while building confidence.

AGA offers pre-apprenticeships in a variety of trades at both our Deer Park and Bairnsdale facilities.

What’s the difference between pre-apprenticeships and apprenticeships?

Pre-apprenticeships are shorter and often part-time, typically lasting a few months. They prepare you for an apprenticeship by providing knowledge of your chosen trade, hands-on experience, work experience and an understanding of the working environment. You’ll also get a feel for the daily routine of an apprentice.

Meanwhile, an apprenticeship is a full-time commitment that lasts 3–4 years and prepares you for a full-time job in your chosen trade. By starting your apprenticeship journey with AGA, our team of dedicated mentors can help with the transition from a pre-apprenticeship to a full-time apprenticeship and connect you with job opportunities.

Here’s a closer look at the benefits and what you can expect.

What are the benefits of pre-apprenticeships?

Pre-apprenticeships offer a range of advantages that might surprise you:

• Government funding makes these courses affordable and easy to access.
• Gain hands-on experience to see if it’s right for you.
• A pre-apprenticeship qualification boosts your chances of getting an apprenticeship.
• Explore different trades to find the one that suits you best.
• No experience needed, you can enrol without any prior work experience.
• Learn important skills to take to your next role like teamwork, communication, time management and safety.
• Receive academic support and get help with literacy, numeracy and other academic areas if you need it.
• Gain industry connections and build relationships with employers, trainers and industry experts.
• AGA offers world-class facilities and ongoing support from expert trainers, along with mentorship and career guidance.

Who’s a pre-apprenticeship right for?

A pre-apprenticeship is ideal for those who want to pursue a career in a trade, such as plumbing, building and construction or automotive, with the bonus of ongoing support from trainers and consultants who are experts in their fields.

It’s also a great alternative for students who are too young to start a full apprenticeship but know that school and traditional university aren’t the right fit for them.

What to expect in a pre-apprenticeship

In a pre-apprenticeship program, you can expect to:

• Learn about Work Health and Safety (WHS) policies and procedures.
• Gain familiarity with specific tools and equipment relevant to your chosen trade.
• Develop effective communication skills for the workplace.
• Understand workplace routines and daily responsibilities.

“Pre-apprenticeships are a game-changer for young people and those looking to switch careers. At AGA, we have seen high completion rates and successful transitions into full apprenticeships, thanks to the comprehensive support and training we provide,” says Sarah Collisson, AGA’s Education and Training Manager.

Get a taste for the trades

Before you start a pre-apprenticeship, consider trying a Trade Taster Program to get a feel for the industry. This five-day short course introduces you to the world of trades. You’ll get hands-on training in Plumbing, Electrical, Automotive and Building and Construction, helping you decide which one is the right fit for you.

Next Steps

Pre-apprenticeships are a valuable stepping stone to a rewarding career in the trades. AGA is committed to delivering high-quality trade skills training programs and providing ongoing support to help you succeed.

Get in touch with us to learn more about how we can help or to explore current pre-apprenticeship opportunities.

Visit our website at AGA.com.au/training/qualifications.