School-Based Apprenticeships
and Traineeships

School Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships (SBATs) allow students to begin a nationally recognised qualification while still at school, combining paid work, formal training, and HSC studies.

SBATs give students the opportunity to “learn and earn” at the same time, building real-world skills, industry experience, and confidence while they complete secondary education.

Students can complete SBATs in a wide range of industries, including trades, business, hospitality, early childhood education, retail, health, construction, information technology, and more, depending on local employer and training provider availability. This flexibility helps students explore their interests and clarify future career pathways while keeping further study options open.

What is an SBAT?

SBATs offer students a unique opportunity to combine their education with practical workplace experience. These programs are regulated under the Apprenticeship and Traineeship Act 2001.

By participating in SBATs, senior students can gain a valuable head start on their chosen career while completing their HSC. They receive formal training from a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) and practical on-the-job experience with an employer, acquiring essential skills and knowledge for their industry. Upon successful completion, students earn a nationally recognized VET qualification and HSC credit.

School-based trainees complete their entire traineeship by the end of their HSC year. School-based apprentices, on the other hand, finish the initial stage of their apprenticeship training during their HSC year and continue their apprenticeship beyond graduation.

Key Components

Hunter Christian School is one of the leading Christian schools in Newcastle, offering education that nurtures the whole child.

Component One

School Attendance

Students must actively participate in their school program while enrolled in a school-based apprenticeship or traineeship and fulfill all requirements for Stage 6.

Component Two

Paid Employment

Students are required to complete a minimum number of paid working days by December 31st of their HSC year. This requirement typically ranges from 100 to 180 days.

Component Three

Training

Students engage in both on-the-job training with their employer and off-the-job (formal) training. Formal training is provided by a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) through a Board Developed or Board Endorsed VET course. To ensure timely HSC credit, school-based trainees and apprentices must complete their formal training component by the end of Term 3.

Component Four

National Qualification

Upon successful completion, students earn a nationally recognised industry qualification. Apprenticeships typically lead to a Certificate III qualification, while traineeships often result in a Certificate II or III.

Component Five

HSC Credit

The formal training component generally contributes a minimum of 4 units towards the HSC, typically spread over two years.

Testimonial

“Students at Hunter Christian School are offered personalised guidance, mentorship, and career planning. We assist students by transforming their academic excellence into successful professional opportunities. Our students have access to platforms such as JobJump and a dedicated Careers area within Canvas where they receive frequent updates. In addition, from Stage 5, our students begin the process of thinking about their career, and work on the transferable skills required.”

Kristin Clulow,
Director of Careers and Pathways

Considering an SBAT?

FAQ

Contact Us
Before enrolling, ask yourself:
  • Interest: Is this a career I’m passionate about?
  • Workload: Can I balance school, work, training, and other commitments?
  • Support: Do I have a strong support system?
  • Commuting: Can I reliably travel to work and training?
  • Employer: Do I have a potential employer lined up?

If you can answer “yes” to most of these questions, an SBAT might be a fantastic choice for you.

Industry Areas - Apprenticeships

School based apprenticeships are available in Automotive, Electrotechnology, Baking, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration, Wall and Ceiling Lining, Marine, Hairdressing, Beauty Therapy, Carpentry, Horticulture, Roof Tiling, Meat Processing, Jewellery Manufacture, Locksmithing and more.

NSW Education – School-based apprenticeships and traineeships

Industry Areas - Traineeships

School based traineeships are available in Automotive, Dental Assisting, Electrotechnology, Baking, Beauty, Tourism, Retail, Floristry, Transport and Logistics, Education (Early Childhood), Construction, Beekeeping, Music Industry, Aged Care and more.

NSW Education – School-based apprenticeships and traineeships

Relevant Parties

Implementing school-based apprenticeships and traineeships require a number of parties to work together.

  • The school
  • The parent / guardian
  • The employer
  • The Registered Training Organisation (RTO)
  • Apprenticeship Network Provider
Australian Apprenticeships Network Support

You can find your nearest Apprenticeship Network Provider by visiting:

australianapprenticeships.gov.au