The National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) has released new research that shows pre-apprenticeship programs can significantly boost the chances of successfully completing an apprenticeship.
The report, Understanding the value of pre-apprenticeships, found that students who completed a pre-apprenticeship in the same field of education as their apprenticeship were 7.3 percentage-points more likely to finish their apprenticeship than those who did not enrol in a pre-apprenticeship program.
NCVER managing director John King said the findings highlight the important role pre-apprenticeships can play in preparing students for success.
‘Pre-apprenticeships help turn initial curiosity into commitment, building both skills and passion,” King said.
“The positive effect of pre-apprenticeships was particularly evident in the trade occupations, where those who had completed a pre-apprenticeship were 4.1-percentage-points more likely to complete their apprenticeship.
‘This may reflect the value of hands-on preparation and the motivation among students who actively choose trade pre-apprenticeships.”
The research found that some groups benefit more than others. Younger apprentices, males and those not identifying with an equity group were more likely to both commence and complete an apprenticeship after enrolling in a pre-apprenticeship.
‘Helping more students complete their apprenticeships is a national priority. This research confirms well-designed pre-apprenticeships can make a difference, especially those aligned to job tasks and tailored to different learner needs,’ King said.
The study also found that around one in three students who did not complete their pre-apprenticeship still moved into apprenticeships with employers. However, they were less likely to complete their apprenticeship when compared to those who had not enrolled in a pre-apprenticeship.
‘We need to understand why students who leave pre-apprenticeships early are less likely to complete their apprenticeship. That insight could help the VET sector design better supports to ensure students succeed,” he said.
Download the report: Understanding the value of pre-apprenticeships