The power of trade foundations curriculum
At the heart of youthBuild is the Trade Foundations Curriculum. It teaches students construction basics in a way that works for every classroom.
“Any teacher can pick up the Trade Foundations Curriculum and use it. That’s what makes this program special – every school can do it,” says youthBuild Manager, Ryan.
This isn’t just another class, it’s your gateway to understanding how the maths and English you’re already learning connect to real, well-paying jobs.
Why maths and english matter more than you think
Did you know that construction work relies heavily on strong maths and reading skills?
“Every trade needs strong maths and reading skills,” Ryan explains. “When you’re measuring timber, reading building plans, working out how much material you need, or even speaking with clients and fellow workers, you use the maths and english skills you’re already learning at school.”
In an aging workforce there’s high demand for new workers. These foundation skills make you valuable and stand out from the crowd.
Backed by $800,000 Government investment
The Tasmanian Government is investing $800,000 over four years into youthBuild. Creating opportunity for approximately 3,000 students across all 55 DECYP high schools.
This major funding will:
- Prepare Year 9 and 10 students for apprenticeships and career pathways.
- Teach real building and construction skills.
- Create Tasmania’s next generation of skilled construction workers.
This investment shows how serious Tasmania is about creating opportunities for young people.
Perfect for every school and teacher
youthBuild works in any classroom setting. Any teacher can deliver the Trade Foundations Curriculum. Schools with VET teachers can take it even further.
“We work with schools that have VET teacher skills,” Ryan says. “The curriculum is our starting point, but schools with trade-qualified teachers can do more hands-on projects.”
The program offers:
- no building experience needed for teachers
- strong focus on maths and reading skills students already have
- clear connections between classroom learning and real jobs
- community projects that let students see their impact.
Real projects, real impact
It’s more than theory; students work on practical projects while developing real skills. From creating structures for community groups to helping on local building projects. Students will apply the skills they’ve learnt along the way.
Tasmania’s construction boom equals your opportunity
Tasmania has $30 billion worth of building projects planned. This is creating unprecedented opportunities for skilled workers.
“We have older workers retiring and lots of demand for new houses and buildings,” Ryan explains. “By starting with good basics, we’re getting students ready for real job opportunities.”
What you’ll experience in youthBuild
Students will:
- discover how maths and reading connect to construction careers
- learn basic building skills through structured lessons
- work on meaningful community projects
- find out if construction is right for them
- build confidence and practical skills.
“It’s about giving students a solid start,” Ryan says. “The Trade Foundations Curriculum makes sure every student gets the main skills they need, whether they become apprentices or choose something else.”
Program launch date
The program begins in Term 1, 2026, with schools joining as they’re ready. This gives everyone time to prepare for an exciting new way of learning.
“We’ve made this as easy as possible,” Ryan explains. “The curriculum is ready, the money is there, and the opportunities are real. We just need schools and students ready to try it.”
Take your next step
For students:
Curious about well paid careers that use your existing skills? youthBuild is your chance to explore construction while building your career path.
For schools:
Curious how this could work in your classroom? With government funding and curriculum ready, youthBuild offers real career preparation without complexity.