School Based Apprenticeship Programs a great way to get ahead
Posted on 13/05/19 in
Albury local, Kurtis Somerfield, pursued the apprenticeship program in order to gain a 'work ready' skillset and qualifications, all by the time he finishes high school.
Backed by the NSW Business Chamber, Apprenticeship Support Australia has successfully signed up Super Retail Group’s first young person to undertake the school-based apprenticeship program in NSW. Kurtis Somerfield has commenced his Certificate III in Retail with the Super Retail Group’s leading automotive parts business, Supercheap Auto in Albury, as an alternative pathway to tertiary education.
Kurtis pursued the apprenticeship program in order to gain a ‘work ready’ skillset and qualifications, all by the time he finishes high school.
“I am learning new things every day, gaining experience in the workplace whilst gaining a qualification,” Mr Somerfield said.
Apprenticeship Support Australia’s Regional Manager, Southern NSW & ACT, Tony Keir has observed that school-based apprenticeships and traineeships have increased in popularity in recent years as an option to tertiary pathways for a rewarding career. “The program is a way of developing the skills base of tomorrow and providing youth with that crucial first opportunity,” Mr Keir said.
Employers also benefit from taking on school-based apprenticeships and traineeships, with an opportunity to develop a tailor-made worker who is ready to join a staff base upon completion of school; while receiving a variety of Australian Government financial incentives.
Super Retail Group, in conjunction with Apprenticeship Support Australia, launched their national school-based apprenticeship program in February this year as a valuable way for local stores to strengthen their connection with their local communities.
Super Retail Group’s Chief Human Resources Officer, Jane Kelly said; “At Super Retail Group, we are committed to social initiatives which are designed to benefit the communities in which we operate. We see our involvement in our local communities as a key part of our business operations, and encourage our team members to do the same. A positive way we support our communities is by offering a school-based traineeships through our extensive Australian retail store network. School-based traineeships are a valuable way for our stores to strengthen their connection with their local community, whilst engaging with the next generation of the workforce. We were proud to launch our school-based traineeship program nationally in February this year which supports young members of our communities to unlock their potential for a rewarding and valuable future in retail."
School-based apprenticeships and traineeships are completed by students on a part-time basis outside of school hours, allowing them to learn key skills that provide them with a head-start in their chosen career pathway. Super Retail Group are encouraging students who are interested to approach their local store (Rebel, BCF or Supercheap Auto).
School-based apprenticeships are available to all NSW Year 10 and 11 high school students looking to complete Year 12. There are numerous apprenticeship and traineeship options for students to train for careers in retail, hospitality, business, agriculture through to first year trade qualifications in electrical, carpentry, hairdressing and other industries.
For more information,
click here and complete the form to get in touch with one of our local industry training consultants who can provide you with program specific details.