Information for secondary students and school leavers

Pre-trade training

Pre-trade training is a way of developing theoretical and practical skills before you become a Modern Apprentice, or start another industry training programme.

Who can do pre-trade training?

Pre-trade training is a good option if you:

tried to get into industry training – for example an apprenticeship – but the employer was not convinced that you had enough knowledge or practical experience. Sometimes, employers will suggest the pre-trade training option to you and offer you the opportunity of work experience during your course
are interested in industry training and want to shorten that training by gaining unit standards before you start an apprenticeship
want to try a certain job or industry without having to commit long term
want to try a variety of different things to see what job you are interested in
are really interested in industry training or a Modern Apprenticeship and you want to show a potential employer your commitment to the industry and your willingness to learn.

Modern Apprenticeship – is this for you?
Industry training – the best choice in your situation?

What are the benefits of pre-trade training?

Benefits of pre-trade training are that:

you gain essential skills, which will form basic knowledge for later career progression
some employers prefer to hire you once you have completed pre-trade training
you can try an industry and find out if you like it without committing long term.

"A pre-course would be helpful (before you do an apprenticeship as an auto electrician). It's much easier if you have a basic knowledge first. I didn't but I had to work twice as hard as the other guys to understand everything."

Jo ann Roberts, Auto Electrician

How can you get into pre-trade training?

Pre-trade training courses are mainly offered by polytechs or private training establishments (PTEs). Contact them or check out their websites to see what they offer.

Many education providers have an open day where you can visit and watch other students showing what they have learned on their course. This gives you a chance to see other trainees in action and talk to them about how they find it. You will quickly see if the course is right for you.

What is expected of you?

At the start of the course you will get a course overview explaining exactly what is expected of you.

You will be required to:

attend the course sessions
complete your tasks on time
be successful in your assessments.

Most courses combine theory and practice. Ask your education provider what the course will include and what is expected of you before signing up.

"You are not stuck in a classroom all day. You are in the workshop learning and doing things. It was cool how it was practical and theory-based."

Phillip Jopson, Automotive Engineer

What does pre-trade training cost?

Course costs vary so it’s best to ask the education provider. It’s also a good idea to check out your funding options. A number of training providers offer subsidised pre-trade training courses – you can talk to your education provider, Work and Income or Career Services to find out more.

Student loans, student allowance and other funding options
Scholarship, grants and awards
Career Services regional office locations

What qualification will you get?

The qualification you get depends on the course you do.

Not all pre-trade courses are part of the National Qualifications Framework (NQF). If the course is not part of the NQF you won't be able to cross credit them to a National Certificate later on. Make sure you ask your education provider about this so you can make an informed decision.