The apprenticeship sector today welcomed the NSW government’s announcement of hundreds of fee-free training courses for school leavers and job seekers, aimed at lifting the attraction of a skilled career.
The plan will see school leavers able to experience a range of skills through the Summer Skills program, helping to find what interests them and decide their next steps.
“We are pleased to see the NSW Government taking the initiative with 2020 school leavers by exposing them to vocational choices, helping them determine their career paths,” said Jason Sultana, Executive Officer of the Apprentice Employment Network NSW & ACT.
Mr Sultana said there are currently more than 1,000 vacancies for apprentices and trainees in our network across a range of industry sectors.
“Hopefully, we might see some of those given exposure to these short, taster courses decide that an apprenticeship or traineeship is right for them,” he said.
He also noted that the group training network, represented by AEN NSW & ACT, already receives state government funding for pre-apprenticeship programs that offer young people a real-life opportunity to experience a job in a wide range of industries from the traditional trades to business administration or health care.
“These pre-apprenticeships give young people a headstart on an apprenticeship or traineeship, and can provide a springboard into a fulfilling skilled career,” he said.
“If anyone is undecided about the direction they want to take, I’d urge them to look at a pre-apprenticeship because it’s the ideal way to gain an insight into the industry or the job that they have in mind.
“While the offer of free training places will help in promoting VET to school leavers and job seekers, pre apprenticeships also provide unmatched hands-on experience of how a selected career path looks and feels for a young person.”
Under the model of group training, GTOs are the legal employers of the apprentice and trainees and are responsible for recruitment, matching to a host business, meeting all employer obligations including paying wages and entitlements, arranging formal training and assessment, and providing pastoral care and support.
GTOs currently employs about 23,000 apprentices and trainees across Australia and have placed more than a million into work since their inception in the 1970s.
About the Apprentice Employment Network NSW & ACT
The Apprentice Employment Network NSW & ACT is the peak body representing its network of 29 Not for Profit Group Training Organisations (GTOs) employing apprentices and trainees throughout New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory. We employ one in nine of all apprentices and trainees in NSW & ACT. www.aennswact.com.au, www.iwantanapprenticeship.com.au
Jason Sultana is available for comment.
Jason Sultana p: 0419 466 584 E: jason@aennswact.com.au
