New research confirms what many in the trades already know: pre-apprenticeship programs are a game-changer for young Australians looking to build a career in the skilled trades.

The study by the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) found that students who completed a pre-apprenticeship in the same field as their apprenticeship were more likely to complete their apprenticeship than those who didn’t.

This is especially true for trades. 

For Thomas Heather, this reflects his own journey. Thomas enrolled in an engineering pre-apprenticeship in secondary school where he joined the ranks of top ten students in Victoria. 

“From a very young age, Dad’s always had me out the shed. He just said, one day, ‘jump on the lathe and give it a go’ and that’s where it all started,” Thomas said.

“The pre-app itself was something I enjoyed. I had fun and learnt a lot. It gives you a taste of what that industry has in it and gives you a sense of whether it’s something you’d want to keep doing or not.”

Thomas advanced to an engineering mechanical apprenticeship at Bendigo TAFE straight after school. 

“I did look at doing a university degree in engineering, but I don’t think that was for me. I’m not a sit behind the desk type of person. I’m hands-on, which is where Bendigo TAFE is fantastic,” he said.

Having completed his apprenticeship, Thomas is now employed as a fitter and machinist developing conveying systems for companies across Australia. 

“I definitely think Bendigo TAFE has prepared me for the workforce. The apprenticeship opened my eyes into what was possible.” 

Thomas’ story is echoed by others who have found their path through innovative pre-apprenticeship programs – like Build 10 at Bendigo TAFE.

Build 10 is an intensive, hands-on construction pathways program uniquely designed for Year 10 students who are interested in construction and are at risk of leaving school early. 

Developed by Bendigo TAFE alongside local secondary schools, Local Learning & Employment Networks and Head Start programs, Build 10 offers accelerated learning, real-world experience and a supported transition into apprenticeships and further training.

For Jack Mullane, Build 10 was a turning point. 

“I was just struggling. I wasn’t doing well in class. I didn’t want to get up for school, didn’t want to do any schoolwork,” Jack shared.

“Having Build 10 on Thursdays and Fridays at the end of each week gave me something to look forward to and kept me in school,” Jack said.

The program’s focus on hands-on learning and basic building projects – helped Jack discover a passion for landscape construction.

“I found satisfaction out of landscaping jobs, transforming nothing into something,” Jack said.

One of the most valuable lessons Jack took from Build 10 was how to approach employers and seek out opportunities. After completing Year 10, he secured work experience with a landscaping company, which soon led to a full-time landscape construction apprenticeship. 

“We were taught how to approach a business, ask for jobs and work experience. I messaged my employer and asked if I could do work experience. It went on from there,” Jack said.

Now on track to a thriving career in landscaping, Jack has big goals in mind.

“I would love to complete my apprenticeship and work to start my own business as a landscaper,” Jack said.

Thomas and Jack are among many individuals embodying the real-world impact of pre-apprenticeship programs – not just in boosting completion rates, but in transforming lives. 

With offerings in automotive, building and construction, electrotechnology, plumbing, engineering, horticulture and salon assistance, Bendigo TAFE continues to lead the way in preparing young Victorians for meaningful, hands-on careers.

Quote attributable to Bendigo TAFE Acting CEO Janelle Arena

“Pre-apprenticeships change lives.

“Research backs it – and so do stories like Thomas and Jack’s. These programs give young Australians the skills, confidence and direction to thrive in their careers. At Bendigo TAFE, we’re proud to support pathways that lead to real careers.”