The Queensland State Government has announced a $25 million investment into a Pre-Apprenticeship Support program to help young Queenslanders secure the training they need for the job they want.
The Pre-Apprenticeship Support program offers a paid apprenticeship for the duration of the 12 or 14 week course, along with real work experience and upon graduation, connections to employers with the aim of continuing the apprenticeship.
Minister for Training and Skills Development Di Farmer said the new pathway, which will be delivered with Group Training Organisations (GTOs), including Skill360, will not only help people into career pathway apprenticeships, but support them to complete their qualifications.
“For this new pre apprenticeship pathway we are working with seven GTOs who will recruit and train 301 people aged between 15 to 24 years old to complete a certificate I level qualification in construction, engineering, or hospitality.
“Those who complete the program will be supported to transition into a subsequent apprenticeship, either employed by the GTO or with another employer.
“This pathway allows people to explore the different options open to them before embarking on an apprenticeship, meaning when they do take that step, they’re much more likely to successfully complete it.”
Skill360 is one of the GTOs selected to deliver the program and will be recruiting 30 people for trades programs in Cairns.
Member for Cairns Michael Healy said it would make a real difference locally.
“Skill360 will recruit, screen and induct 30 people here in Cairns and provide tailored support to the participants to prepare them for working in construction, including gaining some initial skills and hands-on experience through paid employment while studying a Certificate IV in Construction,” Mr Healy said.
“After completing this Cairns Construction Pathway participants will better understand what to expect when they start an apprenticeship, can choose the trade that offers the best prospects for them and they can be safe and productive from their first day on the worksite.”
Skill360 CEO Mike Bareham said he was excited to start delivering their pre-apprenticeship program.
“This is a great opportunity for those interested in a construction-related apprenticeship to get a start, knowing they have additional support to help them succeed and get off on the right foot towards becoming a qualified tradesperson,” Mr Bareham said.
“This project will also be a great opportunity for employers who haven’t employed or hosted an apprentice before, or for a while, because they will be getting support from Skill360 to match the right person for their business who also has some understanding and skills that they can put to use straight away.
“Industry data provided by Construction Skills Queensland shows a continuing growth in construction apprentice numbers, and in approved construction projects in the region. It is essential that we keep growing the pipeline of locally skilled and trained construction workers to keep up with the labour demand to ensure these projects can be delivered using local workers.”
The Pre-Apprenticeship Support Program is funded through the $200 million Future Skills Fund. For further information visit www.desbt.qld.gov.au/training/future-skills-fund or call 1300 369 935.
FIND OUT MORE about Skill360 Pre-Apprenticeship courses in Construction and Hospitality.
