This report summarises key findings from both quantitative and qualitative research that examined the effect of pre-apprenticeship programs on apprenticeship completions and the value that both students and employers place on pre-apprenticeship programs in helping students to obtain successful apprenticeship outcomes.

While both the quantitative and qualitative findings confirm the value of pre-apprenticeships in improving apprenticeship outcomes, they also highlight the need for careful program design and implementation. 

To maximise their impact in preparing apprentices for successful careers, pre-apprenticeship programs must: 

• be tailored to the specific needs of different student and training cohorts
• support completion
• maintain strong alignment with apprenticeships, where appropriate.

The report is accompanied by two support documents.

Key findings

• Students who completed a pre-apprenticeship in the same field of education as their apprenticeship were more likely to finish their apprenticeship than those who did not enrol in a pre-apprenticeship program.
• The positive effect of pre-apprenticeships was particularly evident in the trade occupations.
• 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.
• Around one in three students who did not complete their pre-apprenticeship still moved into apprenticeships with employers.