Most weekdays, Lucas is up early and out the door by 8am. He drives from Launceston to a small heritage cottage near Scottsdale, where he spends the day learning hands-on building skills. By the afternoon, he’s heading home tired, but happy. While many of his friends are still in school, Lucas is following a different path that suits him better.
Lucas is part of an Approved Learning Program through the Department for Education, Children and Young People. This program lets students stay enrolled in school while working towards real qualifications on the job. It’s a great option for students who learn best by doing, not just sitting in a classroom.
Learning on the job
Lucas is learning from Keven, a builder with nearly 50 years of experience. “I’ve been learning how to frame walls, lay concrete, install floorboards, and even build a cathedral ceiling,” Lucas says.
He’s doing all this as a first-year carpentry apprentice through the Housing Industry Association’s (HIA) Apprentices program. Right now, he’s helping restore a cottage built in 1871 called Vinegrove. But more than that, he’s building his own future.
“I’ve always liked working with my hands,” Lucas says. “I enjoy seeing the progress we make each day. It’s long hours, but I love it. One day, I’d like to meet more tradies and maybe even start my own business.”
A different way to learn
Corey, who manages apprentices at HIA, says Lucas is a great example of how apprenticeships can help students who don’t enjoy traditional school. “Some young people are practical learners,” Corey explains. “They learn best by doing. Apprenticeships give them a real pathway to a career.”
HIA also runs a program called YouthBuild, which brings small building projects into schools. It helps spot students who might enjoy a trade career early on. Then, HIA matches them with experienced builders like Keven through their Group Training Organisation (GTO).
Support for everyone
The best part? Employers don’t have to worry about the paperwork. “We take care of everything—pay, TAFE, insurance, super,” Corey says. “That way, the host trainer can focus on teaching, and the apprentice can focus on learning.”
Lucas also gets support from an HIA Field Officer, who checks in regularly to make sure he’s doing well. “Lucas is still learning, but he’s picking things up quickly,” Corey says. “He’s gaining confidence and skills every week.”
A smart start to the future
Apprenticeships are a great way to earn while you learn. “By the end of four years, you’ve got a qualification, real experience, and no student debt,” Corey says.
It’s also a win for the building industry. Lucas is already making a difference on-site, bringing energy and a fresh perspective. “It’s been a great experience for everyone,” Corey adds. “The employer gets support, and the apprentice gets guidance every step of the way.”
Want to learn more?
If you’re interested in apprenticeships or hands-on learning, check out the Vocational Learning webpage or talk to a Group Training Organisation like HIA Apprentices. Just like Lucas, you can start building your future today.