Through an Australian School-based Apprenticeship, they’re diving into carpentry while still at school, showing how hands-on learning can be a powerful choice.
It’s not just a career path – it’s helping to solve the shortage of skilled workers in Tasmania’s building industry
Grade 10 student Wil from Burnie High School always knew what his dream career was. “Since I was in primary school, I wanted to be a builder,” he says.
What started as holiday work with local builder Joe from Build It NW Tasmania has grown into a three-day-per-week Australian School-based Apprenticeship (ASbA) that’s setting him up for success.
“Now I’m learning new things, getting paid and building my future”.
What is an ASbA?
An ASbA offers students a different pathway to traditional full-time schooling by blending part-time work and training with education.
Students typically spend several days per week with an employer while continuing their core studies.
“ASbA can offer a different career path for students, particularly those who don’t do well in a classroom setting” explains Andrew from the Tasmanian Building Group Apprenticeship Scheme (TasBGAS).
“In some cases, this helps keep the student more engaged and connect to their learning.”
The power of partnerships
Group Training Organisations (GTOs) like TasBGAS play a crucial role in making ASbAs work.
TasBGAS employs and trains apprentices and trainees in the building and construction industry while supporting host employers.
“My role is to employ and mentor Wil through his apprenticeship and assist him and his host employer, Joe” Andrew explains.
This three-way partnership creates a supportive framework that benefits everyone.
A student’s perspective
For Wil, the ASbA has been a game changer to how he learns.
His typical day starts at 7:30 AM, planning and organising work activities including concreting, framing, operating string lines, reusing bricks for new formations, and installing windows.
“I’m finding it easier to communicate with people and have confidence. I feel I have more work ethic,” Wil says.
The hands-on learning has complemented his classroom studies seamlessly.
“I’ve been able to easily balance my maths and English classes and my apprenticeship with no issues.”
The experience has reinforced his career goals while also giving practical skills for the future. “I was already keen to become a builder, but this has helped me with a pathway to making it happen,” he reflects.
Real support that makes a difference
Will’s success shows how important collaborative support is.
“I feel supported by Host Employer Joe, my Field Officer Andrew and my teachers at school,” he says.
“It makes such a difference to what I’m learning”.
A win-win for everyone
Joe’s company handles everything from house builds to renovations and extensions.
From an employer’s perspective, ASbAs offer significant advantages by helping to develop the future workforce, and giving students real-world experience at the same time.
“ASbAs can be an investment for a business. They can teach students skills that will benefit them and the whole industry in the future,” Andrew notes.
Students also gain practical skills and career pathways,
As Wil puts it, “Getting out in to work, learning new things and getting paid for it” represents the best of what ASbAs can offer – a practical pathway to career success that works for students who are ready to take the next step.
Getting started
For those business considering ASbAs, it’s easy to get started.
“Reach out to a GTO or an Apprentice Network Provider,” Andrew advises.
“There’s plenty of support available, just like a regular apprenticeship.”
Wil’s advice
Eight weeks into his apprenticeship, Wil hasn’t looked back. His advice to other students considering an ASbA is practical.
“If you love this kind of work, go for it. But if you aren’t interested or willing to put in the work, it won’t work for you”.
For students ready to enter the workforce, ASbAs provide a valuable alternative.
“Some students are ready to enter the workforce more than others,” Andrew says. “These students should have the ability to kick start their careers if they are motivated and ready.”
For more information about Australian School-based Apprenticeships and Group Training Organisations, contact the ASbA team asba.admin@decyp.tas.gov.au or visit the vocational learning webpage.