Earn an income while learning a trade!
An apprenticeship is a three-way contract between a student, an employer and SuniTAFE in which the student undertakes an approved course of instruction with both on-the-job and off-the-job components.
Gain accredited training while you work. Apprenticeships focus on trades and take anywhere between 2 and 4 years to complete.
SuniTAFE offers apprenticeships in industry areas including:
- Electrical
- Building
- Plumbing
- Commercial Cookery
- Horticulture
- Automotive and Engineering
You can begin an apprenticeship while you’re still at school or once you’ve finished. You will combine full-time work with either part-time, workplace based or ‘block release’ study, depending on your employer’s needs. On completion, students can continue employment, further study or start their own business.
SuniTAFE staff have years of experience and have all come from industry, some trained by SuniTAFE when they were doing their apprenticeships.
Many trade courses are on the Free TAFE for Priority Courses list which is a great opportunity to get started with your trade career.
Apprenticeship v Traineeship
An apprenticeship provides training in a skilled trade, while a traineeship provides training in a vocational area (particular job or occupation).
Apprenticeship Support Officer
Apprenticeships Victoria has a dedicated Apprenticeship Support Officer located on site at the SuniTAFE Mildura campus and aims to assist young apprentices navigate any obstacles during the first year of their apprenticeship and beyond. The Apprenticeship Support Officer (ASO) Program is funded by the Victorian State Government and aims to assist young apprentices (aged 15–25) to complete the first year of their apprenticeship.
Careers advice and support
SuniTAFE’s Skills and Job Centres located at our Mildura and Swan Hill Campuses provide independent advice on study and employment options to apprentices and trainees.We understand there can be uncertainty in deciding what career you want, so our staff are here to help you decide and support you as you move ahead. Careers Advisors at our Skills and Jobs Centres can guide you through your career options and provide you with the information you need.
Services include:
- Study options
- Personal career planning and advice (including assistance with a resume or cover letter)
- Recognition of prior learning
- Jobs in demand and employment trends
- Job seeker advice
- Access to other support services.
How to apply
Apprenticeships can commence at any time. Find a business to employ you, then an Australian Apprenticeship Support Network (AASN) manage all contracts and training. Click here to find your nearest AASN.Further information for apprentices, trainees and employers is available via the Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority website
