People working in all industries in Australia have to undertake training to learn the skills and knowledge needed to work in that industry. The training can be at a range of levels through degree, diploma and certificate courses and can take place in schools, universities, TAFEs or on the job.

What are Part-Time School Based Apprenticeships & Traineeships?

A School Based Apprenticeships and Traineeship (SBAT) program integrates education, training and employment and is an opportunity for students to study at school whilst at the same time undertaking government approved and accredited training qualifications as a paid employee.

The student will be enrolled in the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE)  and complete a certificate course through the SBAT.

SBATs are suited to students who:

  • wish to obtain a full industry based apprenticeship or traineeship after school
  • would like to gain an industry qualification as well as their VCE or VCAL
  • want to keep their options open – broadens pathway choices after completing Year 12
  • want to combine paid work, learning (VCE/VCAL) and training in a specific industry
  • want the opportunity to gain two separate nationally recognised certificates at the same time: their industry certificate and a VET course at BSSC through their VCE or VCAL program.

Steps involved

  • Students gain the offer employment as part-time apprentice or trainee in their chosen industry with an employer willing to take them on in this capacity.
  • The employer liaises with a training facilitator to set up the required employment and training contracts.
  • A training plan is developed for the student which incorporates industry training, school and work commitments.
  • The student’s program and results of the industry training are entered on the VCAA database.
  • The units of competence completed during training are credited to the student’s VCE Certificate.

Credit upon successful completion of the program

  • A credit contribution to a VCE certificate.
  • Depending on the certificate level of the apprenticeship/traineeship, there may be a reduction in the first year of a full apprenticeship.