Free ECEC apprenticeships on offer for the Sunshine Coast

Young Queenslanders finishing school this month will have “plenty of opportunities” to work in early childhood education and care (ECEC) and other professions, the Queensland Government have said, as they promoted the State Government’s new $32 million free apprenticeship initiative during school visits last week. 

 

Queensland Minister for Training and Skills Development Shannon Fentiman visited the Sunshine Coast Technical Trade Training Centre (SCTTTC) at the Caloundra State High School, saying “With graduation for thousands of our young high school student just around the corner, I would encourage them to consider the fantastic opportunities an apprenticeship can provide.” 

 

The free apprenticeships and free tafe initiatives have up to 172 courses on offer, including 139 apprenticeships and traineeships which completely without cost. On the Sunshine Coast 182 young people have taken up the offers since 1 July. 

 

The SCTTTC was Queensland’s representative at the Australian Training Awards 2018 and was named as one of the nation’s top three training facilities promoting VET as a viable pathway.

 

More than 500 employers from throughout the Sunshine Coast have hosted work experience students from SCTTTC, as the centre aimed to meet the skill needs of local businesses and industries.

 

“We appreciate the many vocational training opportunities for our students who are seeking viable career pathways to ensure they have the skill sets to be job-ready,’’ Caloundra State High School Principal Julie Pozzoli said.

 

“Our centre has already been recognised by the local community as an authentic and meaningful learning environment for vocational education. Our programs are industry-driven to ensure our students graduate with increased employment prospects,’’ she added. 

 

Ms Fentiman said 94 per cent of SCTTTC’s graduates either gained employment or transitioned to further education or training opportunities last year.

 

The fully subsidised training is offered in 139 apprentice and traineeships in sectors and industries showing a high demand for workers, including:

 

• Electrical
• Plumbing
• Engineering
• Healthcare
• Hospitality
• Early childhood

 

For more information please visit the website, or phone the free apprenticeship hotline on 1800 210 210.