The courses have been developed by TAFE New England, in consultation with Training Services NSW and are available in a wide variety of vocations including electro technology, construction, kitchen operations, engineering, automotive, nursing and early childhood.

TAFE New England Director of Education John Michael said they hope that school leavers will take advantage of these courses to get a taste of what a career in those various industries is like. 

“The courses will run for approximately six weeks from various dates in November,” he said.

“This is a great example of agencies working together to give school leavers an opportunity to try-before-you-buy a career and gain some practical skills and knowledge that will give them a head-start on an apprenticeship.”

Essential Energy Regional manager Northern Mark Summers said they are recruiting new apprentices across regional and rural NSW to pursue careers within the electrical trade.

“We have 25 powerline worker apprenticeships that are open to people of all ages and backgrounds – men, women, school leavers, Indigenous and mature age applicants – in locations across Essential Energy’s footprint,” he said.

“Essential Energy is looking to recruit high achievers seeking a diverse and challenging career in the electricity industry.

“As an equal opportunity employer, we want our workforce to reflect the local communities we serve and we value a diversity of backgrounds and experience.”

Mr Summers said the skills new recruits will develop as they learn their nationally-recognised trade will play an important role in ensuring Essential Energy can continue to meet future network and customer needs.

“The successful applicants will begin their apprenticeships in February 2017, participating in a three-week induction program at one of Essential Energy’s dedicated training centres,” he said.