Apprentice numbers are at record highs with refrigeration and air conditioning leading the charge.
Out of all the new trade commencements in New South Wales there are more apprentices learning refrigeration and air conditioning than any other trade.
The latest figures showasignificant growth in numbers to 1 June 2021, with Certificate III in Electrotechnology representing the top profile in both number and ranking.
The growth in apprentice and trainee numbers is remarkable given the COVID-19 issues that have lingered on since early last year and continue to reign havoc in NSW.
For the first time in a decade, apprenticeship commencements are at an all time-high.
If this increase can be sustained it will make a significant difference to the HVACR industry over time.
National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) figures shows apprenticeship commencements for the December quarter 2020 increased by 141.5 per cent compared with the December quarter 2019 (October to December).
The total number of apprentices and trainees in-training was 297,920, an increase of 13.9 per cent from 31 December 2019.
TAFE SA is leading the nation for apprentice and trainee growth.
Overall, SA achieved a 21.5 per cent increase in apprentice and trainee commencements in 2020 compared to a year earlier – the largest increase of all the states and territories.
South Australia also came out on top when it comes to school-based commencements with an increase of 20.1 per cent.
SA Education Minister, John Gardner, said the commencement figures are a ringing endorsement of the government’s work to re-establish the prestige of vocational education and training pathways.
“We have worked very hard to create an environment where industry and schools are supported to work closely together and it’s paying off,” he said.
“We are ensuring that opportunities are closely aligned with long-term career opportunities and the introduction of industry-endorsed Flexible Industry Pathways will only accelerate the growth in school-based apprenticeships.
“We are also strengthening career education so that students have a clear picture of opportunities from a young age.
“This will help them to make informed choices about their pathway into training, further study and work.”
TAFE SA chief executive David Coltman said it was great to see the continued strong demand for courses.
“TAFE SA continues to provide students across the state with flexible study options, with training delivered by expert lecturers to ensure our apprentices and trainees are well prepared for work,” Coltman said.