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    Get paid while you train. Apprenticeships and traineeships let you gain practical experience at work while studying for a nationally recognised qualification.

    We’re here to help you build a career you can be proud of. Find out how to apply and start today.

    Before you start

    Starting an apprenticeship or traineeship? Here are some ways to prepare:

    Explore

    Talk

    Chat with an Apprenticeship Connect Australia Provider (ACAP) to:

    • choose the right apprenticeship or traineeship
    • find an employer
    • access ongoing support and advice.

    Discover

    Search for apprenticeships and traineeships with:

    Try before you commit

    Not sure yet? Fee-free pre-apprenticeship and pre-traineeship courses let you test whether you’ve made the right choice for you. They also count towards your full qualification if you continue.

    For more information, call us on 131 601 or visit the webpage below.

    Test your trade

    When you’re ready to begin

    Your ACAP, employer and TAFE NSW will guide you through the process. You can start in February or July, depending on when you sign up with your ACAP.

    The process is simple:

    1. Sign your contract and Training Plan Proposal (TPP)
      Your ACAP will help you and your employer prepare these documents.
    2. Your ACAP sends us your TPP
      This usually happens within 48 hours.
    3. We review and approve your TPP
      We’ll check your course is available and return the signed TPP to your ACAP, usually within 2 weeks.
    4. Enrol with TAFE NSW
      When enrolments open, we’ll confirm your place and send you an enrolment link or form. If you’re under 17, a parent or guardian must co-sign.
    5. Your ACAP lodges your TPP and contract
      Your ACAP submits these to Training Services for approval, usually within 2 weeks.
    6. Registration complete
      Once Training Services approves everything, your apprenticeship or traineeship is officially registered. You’ll receive a confirmation letter and Training ID.
    7. Develop your Training Plan
      We’ll work with you and your employer to set key dates, assessments and milestones. This happens within 12 weeks of contract approval.

    Once these steps are done, you’re ready to start learning on the job.

    Fee-free apprenticeships

    Tradespeople are in demand. Kickstart your career with a fee-free apprenticeship at TAFE NSW. Get paid, gain practical skills and build your future.

    Smart and Skilled fee-free traineeships

    Launch your career with a Smart and Skilled fee-free traineeship at TAFE NSW. Student fees covered until June 2025 – gain experience, earn and get qualified.

    School-Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships (SBAT)

    Get a head start with a SBAT at TAFE NSW. Gain experience, earn while you learn, and graduate job-ready with your HSC while exploring your interests and skills.

    Apprentice and trainee essentials

    Change your employer

    To change employers, cancel your Training Contract, sign a new one, complete a cancellation form, get employer approval and finish a probation period.

    Recognition and Credit Transfer

    Apply for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) or Credit Transfer to count your skills or past studies toward your qualification – helping you finish faster.

    Student support services

    TAFE NSW offers free support like counselling, study help and disability assistance. Our Disability Teacher Consultants provide confidential guidance.

    Fee-free apprenticeships

    Tradespeople are in demand. Kickstart your career with a fee-free apprenticeship at TAFE NSW. Get paid, gain practical skills and build your future.

    Smart and Skilled fee-free traineeships

    Launch your career with a Smart and Skilled fee-free traineeship at TAFE NSW. Student fees covered until June 2025 – gain experience, earn and get qualified.

    We’re here to help

    Have questions about apprenticeships or traineeships? Call 131 601 or send us an enquiry below.

    Enquire now