Four organisations sharing the one purpose of supporting Queensland's future
Supporting apprentices to succeed takes more than quality training. It takes strong partnerships, shared commitment and the right support at the right time.
That spirit of collaboration was on display at TAFE Queensland - SkillsTech's (RTO 0275) Acacia Ridge campus, where four Apprentice Connect Australia Providers (ACAPs) came together to connect with apprentices and trainees and showcase the support services available throughout their training journey.
The event brought together Apprenticeship Support Australia, BUSY at Work, MAS National and MEGT, highlighting a united commitment to helping apprentices overcome challenges, build confidence and successfully complete their qualifications.
As apprentices progress through their training, David O'Brien, Area Manager with Apprenticeship Support Australia, believes access to mentoring and personalised support can make a significant difference.
"Our recent National First Year Experience Report, which surveyed 12,376 current and former apprentices and trainees across Australia, found that some of the biggest challenges are actually around the broader experience of working and learning at the same time. Financial stress and maintaining a work-life balance were the two most commonly identified. And feeling unsupported by a supervisor, manager or workplace," Mr O'Brien stated.
"At Apprenticeship Support Australia, our role is to support both sides of the apprenticeship relationship. We maintain contact with apprentices throughout their training, provide guidance when challenges arise, help address workplace issues and connect them with additional support where needed. We also work with employers to help them understand how to create a positive learning environment.
"Ultimately, we want apprentices to feel that they have someone in their corner," David said.
Jessica Martin, Women in Trades Specialist Support Officer with BUSY at Work, believed the event also demonstrated the value of working together to strengthen outcomes for apprentices, employers and industry.
"It's important for all four providers to come together because it shows apprentices we're not competitors. We're here for the same reason. No matter which provider an apprentice is with, we can work together to make sure they receive the mentoring and support they need throughout their apprenticeship."
Zoe Parker with MAS National observed that for many attendees, the workshop provided a rare opportunity to meet all available support providers in one place.
"Bringing all four ACAPs together gives apprentices direct access to support while they're already on campus. It's a chance for them to ask questions, connect face-to-face with their provider and better understand the support available to them. It's also valuable for providers to come together, learn from one another and strengthen the network of support available to apprentices moving forward."
Caitlin Farrell, Mentor with MEGT, said that supporting today's apprentices means investing in Queensland's future.
"When apprentices feel connected, supported and equipped with the right tools and services, they're more likely to succeed. By helping apprentices build confidence, advocate for themselves and access the support they need now, we're helping develop the future skilled people who can be in a workforce that is more empowered, connected and driven."
At TAFE Queensland - SkillsTech, we're proud to work alongside organisations that share our vision of helping apprentices succeed. Together, we're strengthening pathways into industry, supporting and celebrating apprentice success all while helping develop skilled people in the trades that can build Queensland's future for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games and beyond.