School-Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships (SATs) provide students in Years 10, 11, and 12 with the opportunity to combine paid employment, vocational training and school education. This practical pathway supports students in developing industry-specific skills while earning credits toward their Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) or Queensland Certificate of Individual Achievement (QCIA).
SATs are tailored to fit within a student's school timetable, allowing them to balance their academic commitments with hands-on vocational training. Students are generally released 1 day a week to attend their SAT and in some circumstances 2 days a week depending on trade hour requirements (example: electrical). The release day is determined in consultation with the employer, the student, their family and timetable preferences. Through collaboration among students, parents/carers, employers, schools and registered training organisations (RTOs), SATs ensure a genuine, structured learning experience that aligns with the student's career aspirations.
As a school-based Apprentice or Trainee, students remain enrolled in full-time education while undertaking paid employment and formal training as part of their school timetable. Students are employed as apprentices or trainees, receive a wage and engage in training that is nationally recognised. Students enter a training contract, a legally binding agreement outlining the responsibilities of the student, employer and RTO. It ensures that employment and training align with the student's school studies.
Students are required to work a minimum of 7.5 hours per week, averaged over every three months, for every 12 months of their training contract. The work schedule is flexible, allowing for more hours to be worked during school holidays if students are unable to work during exams. Guidance is provided by Apprenticeship Connect Australia Providers (ACAP) to assist in the negotiation and management of the SAT agreement. ACAP providers in Queensland are: Apprentice Support Australia (ASA), Busy at Work, ITEC Employment, MAS National, MEGT and SYC. The Department of Trade, Employment and Training regulates Queensland Apprenticeships and Traineeships.