What are SBATs and how do they work?

School Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships (SBATs) are a great way for you to get a head start on your career while still at school. SBATs are available to all Year 10, 11 and 12 high school students in NSW.

By choosing to do an SBAT you can gain a nationally recognised qualification as part of your Higher School Certificate (HSC). This is achieved by combining part-time work with formal training at school, TAFE NSW or another Registered Training Organisation. There are a range of industry opportunities available, with over 200 SBAT qualifications to choose from!

What will I get out of an SBAT?

A school based apprentice will:

• Complete stage one of an apprenticeship part-time while completing the HSC
• Work a minimum of 100 - 180 days* in paid employment by December 31 of the HSC year
• Participate in formal training with TAFE NSW or another Registered Training Organisation.

A school based trainee will:

• Complete a certificate II or III qualification while completing the HSC
• Work a minimum of 100 - 180 days* in paid employment by December 31 of the HSC year
• Participate in formal training with TAFE NSW or another Registered Training Organisation.

* as outlined in the relevant Vocational Training Order

Can I complete an SBAT and get an ATAR?

Yes, it is possible to complete a school based apprenticeship or traineeship AND receive an ATAR. Talk to your Careers Adviser about your pattern of study and how an SBAT will fit into your HSC.

How often will I go to work?

Generally, one day per week during school terms as well as additional days during the school holidays. The days and times will be negotiated between you, your school and employer.

Will I be paid for the days I work?

Absolutely! As a school based apprentice or trainee you must be paid according to the wage rates and conditions of employment in the appropriate award or industrial agreement.

How do I get started?

It’s simple:

• Decide on the occupation that interests you
• Discuss with your Careers Adviser and parents/carers about how this will work with your HSC
• Use your networks to gain employment – start with family, friends, local employers and explore job search websites
• If you already have a casual job, ask your employer if they would like more information about employing you as a school based apprentice or trainee.

What happens after the HSC?

A school based apprentice will enter stage two of their trade qualification and continue in employment as a full-time or part-time apprentice. A school based trainee will be fully qualified and can begin working full-time, continue on to higher Vocational Education and Training or commence university.

Things to consider

Students who take on a school based apprenticeship or traineeship are motivated young people who don’t just want to plan their future career, they want to experience it now. It’s very important that you think about how you can manage your SBAT by considering:

• Is this a career I’m interested in?
• Can I balance school, work and training along with family and community commitments?
• Do I have a support network around me to help along the way? Teachers, Careers Adviser, parents/carers, friends, mentors etc
• Can I make travel arrangements to get myself to work and training on time?

If you answered YES to the questions above, an SBAT may be a great option for you.