Apprenticeships and traineeships

If you’re looking to get straight into hands-on work (but need a bit of guidance), explore our range of apprenticeships and traineeships. The combination of on-the-job training and instruction from industry experts will prepare you for ongoing employment.

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Hear from our students

Alyssa Heard describes her experience as an apprentice.

I'm fortunate to be one of those people who's always known what they wanted to do with their life. My name's Alyssa Hurd, and I started working in hospitality as a waitress in a golf club when I was 15 to earn extra money. The head chef took an interest in me when she found out how passionate I was about cooking. Towards the end of Year 12, she took me under her wing and offered me an apprenticeship, and I enrolled in a Certificate III in Commercial Cookery. Winning several awards proved that I was on track. Creating fresh and slow food that's made with love is important to me. I also love baking and I'm now doing Certificate III in Patisserie. Travelling is also on the cards to gain industry experience and eventually I want to own my own business.

Why study at Federation

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Federation is a big uni with small-uni values. From the moment you receive an offer to the day you graduate, we make sure your experience is personalised. You’ll never get lost in the crowd.

76.7%

of Federation TAFE graduates had an improved employment status after training (above national VET average).
_{National Centre for Vocational Education Research survey results 2022}

67%

of Victoria’s 364 occupations in shortage can be fulfilled via a TAFE education.
_{The TAFE Value and Perception Challenge Report 2024}

17%

of apprentices and trainees at Federation TAFE are female, closing the gender gap.

80%

of future jobs are attainable via a Victorian TAFE education.
_{The TAFE Value and Perception Challenge Report 2024}

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Pathways to an apprenticeship

If you don’t feel ready to do an apprenticeship yet, consider easing back into study with a Certificate II in General Education for Adults. Keen on a learning trade but not sure which one? Completing your VCE Vocational Major might help narrow your interest area.

Certificate II in General Education for Adults VCE Vocational Major

I feel very proud to win the Golden Plate Apprentice of the Year Award for a second year in a row … I owe a lot of my success to all my teachers at Federation TAFE and the mentors I have worked under. "

— Alexis Saville, Certificate III in Commercial Cookery 

Apprenticeships and traineeships essentials

Keen to find out more about Federation? Start with the basics.