Pre-apprenticeship programs have been found in a recent study to improve apprenticeship outcomes. The National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) last month released new research that shows pre-apprenticeship programs can significantly boost the chances of successfully completing an apprenticeship. The report Understanding the Value of Pre-apprenticeships found that students who completed a 'pre-app' in the same field of education as their apprenticeship were 7.3 per cent more likely to finish their apprenticeship than those who did not enrol in a pre-apprenticeship program. A pre-apprenticeship is an introductory course that allows students to get a taste of an industry before committing to a full apprenticeship. The courses are designed for learning the fundamental skills of a trade with hands-on and practical lessons and can run from between 12 and 20 weeks. Some pre-apps give credit toward an apprenticeship in that field. NCVER managing director John King said the findings highlighted the important role pre-apprenticeships can play in preparing students for success. “Pre-apps help turn initial curiosity into commitment, building both skills and passion,” Mr King said. “Helping more students complete their apprenticeships is a national priority, and this research confirms that well-designed pre-apprenticeships can make a difference, especially those aligned to job tasks and tailored to different learner needs.” The positive effect of pre-apprenticeships was more evident in trade occupations, where those who had completed a pre-apprenticeship were 4.1 per cent more likely to complete their apprenticeship than those who had not. “This may reflect the value of hands-on preparation and the motivation among students who actively choose trade pre-apprenticeships,” Mr King said. The research found that some groups benefit more than others, such as younger apprentices, males, and those not identifying with an equity group were more likely to both commence and complete an apprenticeship after enrolling in a pre-app. The study also found that around one in three students who did not complete their pre-apprenticeship still moved into apprenticeships with employers. However, they were less likely to complete their apprenticeship when compared to those who had not enrolled in a pre-apprenticeship. Mr King said there needed to be understanding of why students who leave pre-apprenticeships early are less likely to complete their apprenticeship. “That insight could help the VET sector design better supports to ensure students succeed.” The report can be found at https://www.ncver.edu.au/research-and-statistics/publications/all-publications/understanding-the-value-of-pre-apprenticeships
