Taster Program

How it works

Trade Taster programs deliver training to year 10 students, one day per week for up to nine weeks.

Students participate in units of competency, gaining a deeper understanding of an industry. This assists them in making an informed decision when choosing a TAFE at School course or continuing with further studies in the future.

The fully funded Taster Programs have been designed to fit around high school subjects, allowing students to get a head start on their learning journey while maintaining studies at school.

Available programs

Students will be able to choose from a selection of industries that will vary from location to location.

During the program students will complete a number of individual competencies from various TAFE Queensland courses, giving them a taste for what a career in that industry would be like.

The programs* will offer exposure across a variety of industry areas, including:

• agriculture
• hairdressing
• light automotive
• engineering
• plumbing
• carpentry
• heavy automotive
• health care
• community services
• cookery
• finishing trades
• electrical
• furniture making

*Not all study areas are available in all locations. Please refer to your school for further information.

Outcomes

It is important to note that successfully completing this program will not give you a formal qualification or any Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) credits. However after completing the Taster Program you may want to continue your training with a TAFE at School Course or school-based apprenticeship or traineeship, to get a head start on your career while you're still at school. 

Eligibility criteria

To take part in the Taster program you must be a year 10 student and be currently studying maths and English at a year 10 level. You must also be able to arrange travel to the relevant TAFE Queensland campus where the program is offered. 

In order to apply for the taster program you will also need to have a Unique Student Identifier (USI). Your USI is a reference number that creates a secure online record of your training and qualifications from recognised training providers in Australia. You can quickly and easily create your USI online. To create a USI visit the Australian Government’s Unique Student Identifier website.

What it costs

There is no cost to eligible students. The Taster program is fully funded by the Queensland Government for Year 10 students who are not currently using their VET in Schools funding on another qualification. Participation in this program will not exclude students from accessing future government funding and initiatives.

Locations

Taster programs are offered at our campuses, these locations are below.