TRADES AT SCHOOL

Interested in trades? Start building your career now!

OCA Certificate in preparing for work

Swap classroom time for tradie time with this practical programme specially designed for Year 12 and 13 high school students. With a focus on BCATS trades training (Building, Construction and Allied Trades Skills), it’s the ideal bridge from high school to the building site.

Download the Programme Guide

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Key Information

Start date: School term
Duration: One year
Credit: 60
Entry requirement: Must be Year 12/Year 13 with an approved school

Fees

This programme is free to all Year 12 and Year 13 students.

Teaching Styles

Want a taste of life in the construction industry? Step out of the school yard and into the OCA workshop.

Engaging classes with lots of hands-on activities and carpentry projects
Plenty of feedback, individual support and guidance from industry experienced tutors who know their stuff
Role plays and group work
Culturally sensitive and respectful environment
Have fun and get a head start on your career!

What will I learn?

Workplace rights, responsibilities and expectations – we’ll get you work-ready
Safe workplace practices
Life skills (work ethics, leadership, team building, budgeting, drug and alcohol awareness)
Operate hand and power tools
Build garden furniture and structures
Major in building and construction or manufacturing and mechanical engineering. You choose!

How will OCA support me?

Targeted mentoring
Ongoing guidance – both during your studies and after
Wrap-around support through the Fono
Our tutors come direct from industry and can connect you with construction employers

What will I walk away with?

Site Safe Certificate – First Aid
Foundation industry and workplace skills that give you an edge
A pathway into further training and work in building, construction and allied trades

Apply Today