MEMBER for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall today announced that the State Government would invest $10 million to help school leavers start their career through free pre-traineeship and pre-apprenticeship courses.
Mr Marshall said that this initiative would provide a platform for more students to access training and include greater support for school leavers.
“As the school year draws to a close, many students will be thinking about their next move and we want more students to consider a career in the trades, so this is a ‘try before you buy’ initiative,” Mr Marshall said.
“The government’s investment will help up to 2,000 students find the career that suits them, and increases the likelihood of completing a subsequent traineeship or apprenticeship.”
Mr Marshall said that from 2016, the government would cap the traineeship fee at $1,000 under new reforms to vocational education and training in NSW.
“Recognising the need to continue encouraging more trainees we will enable more access for students to be trained in the skills to get a job,” he said.
“This change means more people can access high quality, affordable training so they have the skills for the jobs of the future, and employers have a skilled workforce.
“Over 85 per cent of the current traineeship qualifications on the NSW Skills List will be cheaper for students in 2016, with the average saving being $1,128.
“The adjustment is in response to ongoing consultation with training providers, industry and students.”