What is an Australian School-based Apprenticeship (SBAT)?
A School-based Apprenticeship is a great way to start your career while completing your SACE (South Australian Certificate of Education). SBAT’s allow senior school students to combine paid work, training and school, while working towards their SACE and a nationally-recognised qualification. Students undertaking SBAT’s commence a Contract of Training through a part-time Apprenticeship or Traineeship. They learn skills (competencies) on-the-job and through training with a Registered Training Organisation.
What are the benefits of undertaking a School-based Apprenticeship or Traineeship?
i – Earning money while going to school
i – Working towards or gaining a nationally-recognised qualification
i – Gaining hands-on experience in a career-orientated job
i – Earning SACE credits as part of your training, and completing your SACE
i – Having adult responsibility as a member of the workforce
i – Starting your career while you are still at school
Does an Australian School-based Apprentice get paid?
YES! The relevant industry Award covers most School-based Apprenticeships. Students are paid for the time spent in the workplace.
How long does an Australian School-based Apprenticeship take to complete?
If the SBAT’s is not completed prior to the completion of year 12, students can convert to either a part-time or full-time Apprenticeship until it is completed. Apprenticeships are now competency-based, which means that if all the training is successfully completed and the employer believes the Apprentice or Trainee is competent in all areas, their Contract of Training can be ‘signed off’. Students commencing a Certificate III or IV (two years plus) generally work part-time while still attending school and continue full-time to complete the Apprenticeship when their schooling is finished (SACE is achieved). A Certificate III or IV level qualification may take three to four years full-time to complete and require further study and work with your employer after you complete Year 12.
How much time does a School-based Apprentice spend away from school?
At least eight hours per week on-the-job is required. However, School-based Apprenticeships can be organised in a number of ways. It can be by:
i – Working one or more days a week
i – On weekends
i – During school holidays
i – Blocks of time (e.g. a number of weeks in a row)
This is negotiated between the employer, the school and the student.
For more information please download the Australian School Based Apprenticeships & Traineeships (SBAT) Booklet or contact your school:
Australian School Based Apprentice-Traineeship Info Booklet
Support for school staff to manage School based Apprenticeships/Traineeships is provided by the following key process.
Key Processes ASBA Management 2018
ASBA Pre-Approval Consent Form Department for Education