Apprenticeship and traineeship student handbook
We’re here to help you begin your training journey with confidence. Our induction events and information sessions provide the essential information, support services, and resources you need to get started and make the most of your learning experience.
TAFE Queensland website Our website is a great resource for new students. Here you can find your campus map, access student rules and policies, learn about available student support and online services, and find news and events. For more information, visit: tafeqld.edu.au/getting-started
Induction information You’ll soon meet with a TAFE Queensland Induction Officer who will guide you through your apprenticeship or traineeship journey. During your induction, you’ll learn about your training obligations, how to develop and maintain your training plan, the importance of keeping your training record up to date, and what is expected of you while attending training with TAFE Queensland. This session is designed to help you feel confident, informed, and prepared for a successful training experience.
Important information Department of Trade, Employment, and Training website has a wide range of information and fact sheets on topics relating to the apprenticeship and traineeship system in Queensland. These include information such as: • adequate training arrangements • apprentice and trainee rights and responsibilities • assistance and support • changes to your apprenticeship or traineeship (such as extensions, permanent and temporary transfers) • completing the apprenticeship or traineeship • types of apprenticeships and traineeships (including who can study and how an apprenticeship or traineeship can be undertaken – full-time, part-time or school-based). These information sheets can be found here: qld.gov.au/education/apprenticeships
Your training journey
Every apprenticeship and traineeship follows a series of key stages, from starting your training to completing your qualification. Along the way, you’ll gain practical skills, receive support, and build the knowledge needed for your career. Induction
TAFE Queensland will take you and your employer through everything you need to know on your training journey with us. This will include negotiating your training plan, providing you with a training record and ensuring your employer has all the right tools, equipment, and supervision in place for you to undertake your apprenticeship or traineeship.
Work with your employer
You will undertake work with your employer, who will teach you the key skills required to work in their business.
Training with TAFE Queensland
From time to time, your employer will release you from your job to undertake training with TAFE Queensland. You and your employer will update your training record throughout your journey to document your training.
Verification
After each training unit is complete with TAFE Queensland, your employer will verify that your on-the-job training component is satisfied.
Completion
Once all training units outlined in your training plan are complete and verified, TAFE Queensland will work with your employer and the Department of Trade, Employment, and Training (DTET) to issue your qualification and complete your traineeship or apprenticeship. You will receive the qualification from TAFE Queensland and the Completion Certificate from DTET.
TAFE Queensland Apprenticeship and Traineeship Student Handbook
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TAFE Queensland’s training compares really well to working on-site. You’re learning from people who’ve been there, done that. They’re passing on their skills to the next generation. Fraser Jolly Engineering apprentice, 2J’s Brew and Q Fab
Click the play icon or scan the QR code below to view the video.
Getting started
Skills Check
Student ID cards
Before you enrol in your course, you may be invited to complete a Skills Check an online assessment tool used by TAFE Queensland to understand your current abilities in English, Maths and using Digital Technology.
Your TAFE Queensland Student ID card is your passport to student life.
The Skills Check measures your levels against the recommended or required benchmarks, listed on your course page, based on the Australian Core Skills Framework (ACSF). Unless it is a formal entry requirement for your course, your results will not stop you from enrolling. They simply help us to provide the right support to help you succeed. Understanding your skill levels before starting a new course is important. It allows you to: • make an informed choice about your course before you go ahead and enrol • explore alternative courses or pathways • access learning support so you have the best chance to graduate successfully. If the Skills Check identifies any skill gaps, you can access learning modules designed to help you improve. To find out more, please visit: tafeqld.edu.au/courses/apply-and-enrol/ how-to-apply/skills-check
You’ll need it to borrow books from the library, gain access to certain facilities, and to sit exams. You may also be eligible for discounted travel, movie tickets, meals, and more. For security reasons, it’s important to keep your ID card with you at all times while on a TAFE Queensland campus.
Where to get an ID card You can get your TAFE Queensland Student ID card through your local Customer Service Centre or by applying online for a digital ID card. You’ll need photo identification and proof of enrolment. Most students receive a digital ID card on their smartphone, although some courses may still require a physical card. For more information visit: tafeqld.edu.au/current-students/ it/student-id-cards
Replacement cards Your first Student ID card is free. Take care of it, as replacement cards will incur a fee. If your ID card is lost or damaged, head to your Customer Service Centre to obtain a replacement card. For more information visit:
Unique Student Identifier (USI)
tafeqld.edu.au/getting-started
Anyone undertaking a nationally-recognised training program in Australia must have a Unique Student Identifier (USI). Your USI gives you access to your own online USI account that contains all of your training records and results from nationally recognised training.
Updating your contact details
Your Apprentice Connect Australia Provider will have ensured you have a USI. Please ensure you have your USI handy to provide to TAFE Queensland at your induction. You can create your USI online at:
You must keep TAFE Queensland up to date with any changes to your contact details, including your emergency contact details. If your details are incorrect, you may miss out on important information such as timetable updates, results, certificates and student surveys. If you change address, update your email address, or get a new phone number, remember to update your details in the Student Portal.
usi.gov.au TAFE Queensland Apprenticeship and Traineeship Student Handbook
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Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) provides you with an opportunity to receive recognition for both formal and non-formal learning you have undertaken.
The RPL process takes into account all relevant skills, knowledge, and experience that you have. Credit transfer is a process that provides you with credit for previous formal study that is equivalent to your apprenticeship or traineeship qualification.
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You may also be eligible for Credit Transfers if you have completed previous formal study that is equivalent to your apprenticeship or traineeship qualification. Your induction officer will discuss any potential RPL and Credit Transfer options with you and your employer during your induction when negotiating and finalising your training plan. For more information regarding RPL and Credit Transfer visit: tafeqld.edu.au/rpl
TAFE Queensland Apprenticeship and Traineeship Student Handbook
Even though I’m still a junior in the salon, I get to do toning, basin work, drying — all the behind-the-scenes jobs that keep the day running smoothly. It’s very hands-on. Charlotte Doak Hairdressing apprentice, Giggles Hair Salon
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TAFE Queensland’s responsibilities Training contract
Training plan
You and your employer will have already completed your training contract with your Apprentice Connect Australia Provider. Your training contract formalises your apprenticeship or traineeship.
During your induction, a TAFE Queensland Induction Officer will discuss your training plan. This will outline the training to be delivered to you by both your employer and TAFE Queensland.
Amendments to your training contract From time to time, changes may be needed to your training contract. This may include changes to your employment arrangements, training mode, qualification, employer details, supervision arrangements, or the expected completion date of your apprenticeship or traineeship. If any changes occur, you and your employer should contact TAFE Queensland as early as possible, and we will liaise with your Apprentice Connect Australia Provider and support you through the process. Further details regarding your training contract can be found here: qld.gov.au/education/ apprenticeships/about/ training-supervision/ contract/register 8
Your training plan also includes assessment arrangements and your training attendance with TAFE Queensland. At induction, the training plan will be negotiated and agreed to by you, your employer, and TAFE Queensland. Further information regarding training plans can be found here: qld.gov.au/education/apprenticeships/about/ training-supervision/document/plan
Training record Your training record captures the workplace tasks and on-the-job training you complete throughout your apprenticeship or traineeship. Maintaining an up-to-date record helps track your progress and ensures your training aligns with your training plan. You are responsible for: • Regularly updating your training record. • Documenting workplace tasks and activities as they are completed. • Seeking your employer’s verification before submitting your training record to TAFE Queensland. Your employer is responsible for: • Providing a range of workplace tasks and experiences that align with your training plan. • Review and verify your training record regularly. • Supporting your ongoing workplace learning and development. Keeping your training record up to date helps all parties monitor your progress, identify areas where additional training may be required, and support the successful completion of your apprenticeship or traineeship. For more information visit: qld.gov.au/education/apprenticeships/about/ training-supervision/document/record
TAFE Queensland Apprenticeship and Traineeship Student Handbook
TAFE Queensland’s responsibilities
Academic appeals
Privacy
If you are not satisfied with any academic decision or procedure, you should talk to your teacher in the first instance. If you are not satisfied with your teacher’s decision, you may submit an application to have this reviewed.
TAFE Queensland is committed to ensuring your personal information is safeguarded at all times. Your information is used only for the purposes for which it is collected, and we do not provide information to third parties without your consent, unless required to do so legally.
For more information about our academic appeals process visit our website:
For more information, you can view our privacy statement at: tafeqld.edu.au/privacy
tafeqld.edu.au/student-rules
Rules and responsibilities
Failure to progress If at any time during your training, we have concerns that you are not progressing as planned under your training plan, we will discuss our concerns with you and your employer to find a solution. If a solution is not reached, we may seek advice or further action through the Department of Trade, Employment, and Training (DTET).
At TAFE Queensland, we are committed to providing the highest quality of service to our students. In accordance with this, the student rules and policies provide information on your rights and responsibilities — whether you’re on or off campus. Please make time to read through the rules and policies in full at: tafeqld.edu.au/student-rules
Some of the reasons this process may be initiated:
tafeqld.edu.au/policies-and-procedures
• you are withdrawn from training or are not being released from work to complete your off-the-job training as planned
Setbacks happen, but they don’t have to derail your trade career.
Reboot Your Trade Training program
• your employer is unable to provide workplace training as planned • you are deemed not competent in a unit of competency on your training plan • you have excessive absences from work or training
TAFE Queensland’s Reboot Your Trade Training program supports eligible apprentices with cancelled contracts by providing funded training, personalised guidance, flexible learning options, and assistance in finding a new employer. The program is designed to help you stay connected to your trade, while between employers.
• you do not complete the assessment as required
For eligibility requirements, eligible trades, training locations, and more information about the support available:
• your training record is not kept up-to-date.
tafeqld.edu.au/reboot-your-trade-training
TAFE Queensland Apprenticeship and Traineeship Student Handbook
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TAFE Queensland’s digital services Create a password
Using Connect
To access TAFE Queensland’s digital services you first need to create a password by following these steps:
Connect is TAFE Queensland’s online Learning Management System (LMS). It has everything you need in one handy location, giving you the flexibility to study anywhere, anytime. As a TAFE Queensland student, you’ll have access to the learning materials for each unit of study five days before your start of study (SOS) date and continued access to all units until you finish your course. When using Connect, you will be able to:
ccess Password Manager: a passwordreset.tafeqld.edu.au 1. enter your User ID/Student Number 2. follow the prompts. Your password will remain valid for 60 days. Automatic reminders will prompt you to change your password as required.
TAFE Queensland student portal The portal is your one-stop shop for easy access to the information you need about your study with TAFE Queensland. You can access the portal via mobile and desktop to: • view your current study plan and results • pay your fees and or apply for a VET student loan • update your address and contact details • access live chat for support. Access the portal via: tafeqld.edu.au/student-portal
WiFi on campus Free WiFi is available for students at most TAFE Queensland campuses. You can use the WiFi to access your course materials, online services, and more. By using the WiFi, you are agreeing to the student rules and policies.
• collaborate with your classmates in forum discussions • access class resources, including presentations and notes • check your class study schedule • submit your assignments • find your educators’ details and check their availability.
Access and logging in Please note: students in programs delivered in partnership with other universities may use an LMS other than Connect. Please seek assistance early if you are having difficulties. You can access Connect online at: connect.tafeqld.edu.au • Username: [studentnumber]@tqstudent.edu.au • Password: Your network password Simply log in with your username (Student ID) and network password.
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TAFE Queensland’s digital services
Download the Connect App 1. Open App Store for iPhones or Google Play for Android devices. 2. Search for Brightspace Pulse. 3. Select GET, then INSTALL. 4. Follow the on-screen instructions, then OPEN. 5. At Pick Your School, type TAFE Queensland and tap the result. 6. Complete your login with your usual student number and login. You can also access Connect using the Brightspace Pulse App. With Brightspace Pulse you can access communications, content and grade results in Connect.
Resources and help You can find support information and videos under the Help section in Connect. It includes short tutorials and guides on the tools and processes for navigating Connect, enabling notifications, submitting assessments, tracking your progress, checking grades, and engaging in discussions with your peers. You can also check out:
Find important information, resources and services you need to achieve success at the online student hub. If you can’t find what you’re looking for or need help, contact us. You can access the student hub online at: tafeqld.edu.au/current-students
youtube.com/tafeqldconnect
Privacy TAFE Queensland is committed to ensuring your personal information is safeguarded at all times. Your information is used only for the purposes for which it is collected, and we do not provide information to third parties without your consent, unless required to do so legally.
i Connecting to WiFi
For more information, you can view our privacy statement at:
Network name: TQGuest
tafeqld.edu.au/privacy
Troubleshooting: tafeqld.edu.au/wifi
Password: MakeGreatHappen!
TAFE Queensland Apprenticeship and Traineeship Student Handbook 11
TAFE Queensland values feedback, and the information you provide assists us with ongoing improvement of our products and services.
i Feedback If you want to provide feedback to TAFE Queensland at any time throughout your studies, you can do so by using the online feedback form on our website at: tafeqld.edu.au/contact/feedback
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At TAFE Queensland, we value your feedback. That’s why you’ll receive a series of student surveys at different points throughout your study journey. Surveys are a vital part of improving the student experience, so we encourage you to complete all surveys you receive. All responses are confidential. SAS Student Training and Employment Survey
WHO: Students receiving government subsidised training under Certificate 3 Guarantee (C3G) or Higher Level Skills (HLS).
Early Experience Survey (EES)
WHO: All newly commenced Vocational Education and Training (VET) students completing accredited training (excluding RPL, offshore, AMEP, ELICOS, and third-party provider students).
WHEN: Quarterly (March, June, September, December).
WHEN: W ithin three weeks of the start of semester (usually February and July). Student Satisfaction Survey (SSS)
WHO: VET students enrolled in accredited training within the semester, onshore (excluding higher education, AMEP, non-accredited training, credit transfer and RPL students). WHEN: Six-monthly (usually May and November).
Learning and Teaching Survey (LTS)
WHO: S elected VET and international students undertaking accredited or non-accredited training.
NCVER Student Outcomes Survey (SOS)*
WHO: S elected VET students issued with an award in the previous calendar year.
Quality Indicator Survey (AQILEES)*
WHO: A ll onshore and offshore students who have participated in VET activity during the specified calendar year.
WHEN: Mid-way through the course of your studies.
WHEN: Annually (usually May/June).
WHEN: January.
NOTE: the above list is indicative only, you may also receive other surveys to complete.* Deployed by external contractor or organisation
Each year TAFE Queensland Scholarship program awards 100x $5,000 scholarships to people looking to change their lives and build lifelong careers. Scholarships can be used to pay for study-related costs such as course fees, travel expenses, childcare, uniforms, tools, books and other study materials.
i Scholarships Achieve your career goals with the help of a TAFE Queensland Scholarship. For more information visit: scholarships.tafeqld.edu.au 14 TAFE Queensland Apprenticeship and Traineeship Student Handbook
Enrolments, fees and charges The Queensland Government may contribute towards the costs of your apprenticeship or traineeship. There may also be a student contribution fee, as set by the Department of Trade, Employment, and Training (DTET), which you will need to pay before you start classes or training. In some cases, your employer may pay this fee for you. For more information about Queensland Government subsidised training and incentives visit: qld.gov.au/education/ apprenticeships/forapprentices/support/ financial
Paying your fees You should complete a Payment of Fees form at your TAFE Queensland induction to indicate how you will pay your fees. You can pay by credit card, cash, or by direct debit payment plan (if you are eligible). Your employer or a third party may pay fees on your behalf by completing an Authority to Invoice form.
Costs of training Your costs of training may include: • travel or accommodation costs to attend training • uniforms and equipment • tuition costs • parking or transport costs (to attend work or training).
Financial hardship If you are unable to pay your fees due to extreme financial hardship, you should make an appointment to talk with our Customer Service Centre to discuss possible solutions. Make sure you do this before your fees are due to avoid any difficulties.
Travel and accommodation If you have to travel at least 100km return to attend the closest training organisation that delivers your training program, you may be eligible for a travel and accommodation subsidy. This subsidy is available through the Department of Trade, Employment, and Training (DTET), and is paid on completion of your training. We will verify your actual attendance dates on your form before you submit it. We can also verify your attendance online to allow faster payment of your subsidy. For more information, call the Apprenticeships Information Hotline on 1800 210 210 or visit: qld.gov.au/education/apprenticeships/advice/ support/financial
Withdrawal and refunds If you wish to withdraw from your course or a unit, please contact us as soon as possible. If you withdraw after your training commencement date, academic or financial penalties may apply. Withdrawing from units may affect your progress in your apprenticeship or traineeship. To read our refund policy visit: tafeqld.edu.au/policies-and-procedures
Student support services Sometimes you may need some extra support along your apprenticeship or traineeship journey. We’re here to help, with student support services available to all of our students.
Mental health and wellbeing
AccessAbility support
Looking after our mental health is just as important as maintaining our physical health. Being in a strong mental health space will benefit your study experience. Building your resilience and having strategies to cope with life changes will not only assist you in your studies, but will be beneficial in your future work environment.
At TAFE Queensland, we are committed to making everyone’s experience enjoyable and worthwhile. If you have a disability (including dyslexia or other learning challenges) and need help, we can provide practical assistance, support, and advice.
For more information and to access any of our support services, please visit:
Our AccessAbility Support team will work with you to develop an individual support plan. This may include:
tafeqld.edu.au/student-support
• communicating with teachers on your behalf when required
Counselling
• loaning you assistive technology
If you need someone to talk to about problems that may be affecting your training and progress, our experienced and friendly counsellors are here to help. You might need help with issues such as time or stress management, personal issues, or crosscultural and special needs. Counselling is confidential and free of charge.
• providing mentors, sign language interpreters, readers, and scribes
Indigenous student support If you are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander student, we have support officers who can provide culturally appropriate information and assistance. For more information and to access any of our support services, please visit: tafeqld.edu.au/studentsupport
Student support For more information on student support services visit: tafeqld.edu.au/student-support
• coordinating alternative assessment arrangements. As an apprentice or trainee, you may have access to both tutorial and mentoring support through the Disabled Australian Apprentice Wage Support (DAAWS) program. We can work with you, your employer, and your Apprentice Connect Australia Provider to apply for and organise this support.
Library services All students can access the TAFE Queensland library network which offers a range of physical and digital services and resources to support you throughout your study. Visit the libraries portal site: library.tafeqld.edu.au/quickfind
i Emergency support If you’re worried you may harm yourself or someone else, or need emergency help for someone else in this situation: Please call 000
A range of external support services are also available TIACS 0488 846 988 | tiacs.org 8am-10pm Mon-Fri - If you would like to speak to a mental health counsellor free of charge reach out to TIACS Mates in Construction 1300 642 111 | matesinconstruction.org.au 24/7 MATES Helpline 1800Respect 1800 737 732 | 1800respect.org.au National Sexual Assault, Domestic Family Violence Counselling Service NAWIC - National Association of Women In Construction 1800 767 977 | nawic.com.au QLife 1800 184 527 | qlife.org.au National LGBTI Telephone Counselling and Information line Mensline 1300 789 978 | mensline.org.au Telephone and online counselling Queensland Program of Assistance to Survivors of Torture and Trauma 07 3391 6677 | qpastt.org.au Lifeline 13 11 14 | lifeline.org.au 24/7 Crisis Support Reach Out | reachout.com Online mental health support for Young People Head to Health | headtohealth.gov.au Digital mental health resources from trusted service providers
TAFE Queensland Apprenticeship and Traineeship Student Handbook 17
TAFE Queensland takes pride in providing quality training for apprentices and trainees with industry-standard tools and facilities. With specialist facilities for a wide range of industries, you can be confident you’ll receive the highest quality trade training available. For more information regarding our facilities visit: https://tafeqld.edu.au/about/facilities/trade-facilities
Safety and security..As a student, there are steps you can take to help ensure the safety of yourself and others: • take precautions with your personal belongings and don’t leave items unattended or bring valuable items onto campus • be mindful of your sitting position as poor posture can lead to physical and mental fatigue, and possible injury • be careful when lifting or moving heavy objects and remember to use your knees, rather than your back, to lift the weight • obey safety signage and wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) • only use property, plant, and equipment for its intended purposes • follow directions given by TAFE Queensland staff and report all injuries, incidents, hazards, or near misses to your teacher. You are entitled to respectfully challenge directions or decisions of TAFE Queensland staff if you think they are unlawful, unreasonable, or could endanger a person’s health or safety. 18 TAFE Queensland Apprenticeship and Traineeship Student Handbook
i Smoke-free campuses As part of our commitment to provide healthy, vibrant campuses for our students, all TAFE Queensland campuses are smokefree. This also includes e-cigarettes. For more information about TAFE Queensland’s SmokeFree Policy visit: tafeqld.edu.au/smokefree
BULLYING HAS NO PLACE IN MY WORKPLACE. Call it out and act. Learn how at qld.gov.au/LetsProtectRespect
This initiative is part of the Queensland Government’s Good people. Good jobs: Queensland Workforce Strategy 2022–2032.
Acacia Ridge 247 Bradman St, Acacia Ridge QLD 4110
Cloncurry 35 Ramsay Street, Cloncurry Qld 4824
Mooloolaba 34 Lady Musgrave Drive, Mooloolaba Qld 4557
Alexandra Hills Windemere Road, Alexandra Hills Qld 4161
Dalby 463 Bunya Highway, Dalby Qld 4405
Nambour 91 Windsor Road, Nambour Qld 4560
Ashmore Corner Heeb Street and Benowa Road, Ashmore Qld 4214
Eagle Farm 776 Kingsford Smith Drive, Eagle Farm Qld 4009
Redcliffe 64-68 Klingner Road, Redcliffe Qld 4020
Atherton 1/11 Vernon Street, Atherton QLD 4883
Great Barrier Reef International Marine College 55-61 Tingira Street, Portsmith Qld 4870
Robina 94 Laver Drive, Robina Qld 4226
Bracken Ridge 157 Norris Road, Bracken Ridge Qld 4017
Grovely Fitzsimmons Street, Keperra Qld 4054 Gympie
Bowen 98-158 Queens Road, Bowen Qld 4805
Gympie 71 Cartwright Road, Gympie Qld 4570
Bundaberg 118 Walker Street, Bundaberg Qld 4670
Hervey Bay 47-95 Urraween Road, Hervey Bay Qld 4655
Burdekin Seventeenth Street, Home Hill Qld 4806
Ingham 74 Townsville Road, Ingham Qld 4850
Caboolture Tallon Street, Caboolture Qld 4510
Innisfail 45 Flying Fish Point Road, Innisfail Qld 4860
Cairns Gatton, Newton, Eureka and Wilkinson Streets, Cairns Qld 4870
Ipswich Corner Mary and Byrne Streets, Bundamba Qld 4304
Charters Towers 1-13 Macpherson Street, Richmond Hill Qld 4820 Chinchilla 9 Zeller Street, Chinchilla Qld 4413 Coomera Marine 198 Foxwell Road, Coomera Qld 4209
Kingaroy Corner Bunya Highway and Geritz Road, Kingaroy Qld 4610 Mt Gravatt 1030 Cavendish Road, Mt Gravatt Qld 4122 Mount Isa 165-179 Abel Smith Parade, Mount Isa Qld 4825
1300 308 233 | TAFEQLD.EDU.AU RTO 0275 | CRICOS 03020E | IHE PRV13003 The information contained in this guide is correct at time of printing, August, 2026. For the most up-to-date information refer to our website at tafeqld.edu.au
Roma Timbury Street, Roma Qld 4455 South Bank 66 Ernest Street, South Brisbane Qld 4101 Southport 91-99 Scarborough Street, Southport Qld 4215 Springfield Education City Drive, Springfield Qld 4300 Sunshine Coast Health Institute 6 Doherty St, Birtinya QLD 4575 Toowoomba 100 Bridge Street, Toowoomba Qld 4350 Townsville 763 Ingham Road, Bohle Qld 4818 Warwick 200 Dragon Street, Warwick Qld 4370 Whitsundays Shute Harbour Road, Cannonvale Qld 4802 Yarrabilba Basalt Drive, Yarrabilba Qld 4207