What is a pre-traineeship?
A pre-traineeship is a short, entry-level program designed to give individuals practical experience and basic training in a chosen industry before committing to a formal traineeship or apprenticeship.
It provides a supportive introduction to the workplace, combining hands-on experience with foundational learning to help participants build confidence, develop essential skills, and gain a clearer understanding of their chosen career pathway.
Pre-traineeships are ideal for job seekers who are unsure about their future direction and want to explore an industry in a real work environment. They offer an opportunity to “try before you commit,” while being supported by both a training organisation and an employer.
By the end of a pre-traineeship, participants are better prepared to make informed decisions about their career and are often well-positioned to transition into a traineeship, apprenticeship, or employment within the industry.
Previous Pre-Traineeships
In March 2025, GTES proudly partnered with the International Child Care College (ICCC) and Wagga Wagga Early Years Learning Centre (WWEYLC) to deliver a Childcare Pre-Traineeship program. This initiative provided 12 participants with the opportunity to gain valuable insight into the early childhood education and care sector through a combination of structured training and hands-on workplace experience.
Throughout the program, participants were introduced to the fundamentals of working in early childhood settings, including supporting children’s learning and development, understanding workplace expectations, and building effective communication skills within a team environment. Of the 12 participants, 6 were offered full-time traineeship positions with WWEYLC, demonstrating the strength of the program in developing job-ready candidates. Since then, two participants have already successfully completed their traineeships, with more to complete in the coming months.
Following the success of the program, GTES again partnered with ICCC and WWEYLC in March 2026 to deliver another Childcare Pre-Traineeship intake. This year, 10 students participated, with 9 successfully completing the program and 4 being offered full-time traineeships with WWEYLC.
These programs have played an important role in strengthening the Early Childhood workforce in our region, while also supporting young people to take their first steps into meaningful and rewarding careers in education and care.
Why choose a pre-traineeship?
A pre-traineeship is a great way to explore a career in Early Childhood education before committing to a full qualification. Participants gain a head start by completing the first three units of the Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care, while also developing practical skills in real childcare environments.
Students gain valuable experience working alongside qualified Early Childhood professionals, learning how to support children’s development, contribute to daily routines, and understand workplace expectations in a childcare setting. They also build confidence, communication skills, and a stronger understanding of whether this career pathway is right for them.
If you are looking to enter the industry or are unsure about your future career direction, a pre-traineeship provides the perfect opportunity to learn, explore, and grow.
Keep an eye on GTES’s website and social media channels for upcoming pre-traineeship opportunities.