500 careers and counting

With 64% of young people worried about the career planning process, it’s perhaps no surprise that 80% say having a career plan will help them feel more confident about the future​.

A Vocational Education and Training (VET) pathway ticks many boxes.

An apprenticeship or traineeship offers the opportunity to earn money while getting practical skills in real workplaces, and it’s not just trade qualifications on offer.

In fact, VET pathways open the door to 500 qualifications in more than 50 different industries. It’s a practical alternative to higher education and opens the door to limitless opportunities which allow those who qualify to earn an excellent salary without the worry of higher education debt.

The statistics are compelling:

• First year apprentices usually earn $500 to $700 per week
• Skills are recognised nationally (ie: opportunity for travel)
• 95% of trade and 90% of non-trade students were employed after completing their qualification

There’s plenty of ways to find out about apprentice or trainee opportunities:

• Family and friends
• Job boards
• Websites
• Social media
• Walk in

There’s also three key skills that employers look for when engaging an apprentice or trainee:

• 44% strong interpersonal skills
• 32% desire to learn
• 31% punctuality

Employers also say they value a positive attitude, good communication and collaboration, time management skills and showing initiative.

Completing an apprenticeship or traineeship doesn’t close the door to a university degree down the track. In fact, many qualified people then undertake a degree to get the knowledge they need to set up their own business.

Find out more about how apprenticeships work or book a school visit