Vocational Education Training Adelaide | VET | Schools

Vocational Education Training in Schools

ATEC offers a clear pathway for school-enrolled students looking to transition into a trade apprenticeship in Construction, Electrotechnology, or Engineering.

Through strong connections with private employers and as a registered Group Training Organisation (GTO), ATEC supports students in securing apprenticeship opportunities—either during their VET in Schools training or upon completion.

Our training begins at the pre-employment stage, equipping students with the hands-on skills, safety knowledge, and industry awareness needed to confidently step into their chosen trade.

ATEC proudly delivers CITB’s doorways2construction® program, an industry-backed initiative that provides secondary students with real-world career education and access to Flexible Industry Pathways into the building and construction sector.

In many cases, units of competency completed during VET in Schools may be credited towards a Contract of Training, allowing students to fast-track their apprenticeship and reduce the time required to achieve a full trade qualification.

Construction Pathways

Overview: CPC20220 Certificate II in Construction Pathways
This pre-apprenticeship course is designed to give students hands-on experience across a wide range of trade areas within the construction industry. Students will develop practical skills in carpentry, concreting, tiling, joinery, plastering, plasterboard fixing and flushing, bricklaying, and even demolition. The training is aligned with competencies from the nationally recognised Construction Training Package, ensuring students are industry-ready.

Pathways:
Successful completion can lead to:

A school-based or full-time apprenticeship in General Construction or Carpentry
Entry-level work as a construction labourer or trade assistant
Further study in Certificate III Construction or related trade qualifications

Benefits:

Offers students a broad introduction to multiple trades, helping them choose a specialised pathway
Builds essential skills in workplace safety, tool handling, and teamwork
Gives students a competitive edge when applying for apprenticeships
Strong employment demand across South Australia due to ongoing infrastructure projects and housing developments

Engineering Pathways

Overview: MEM20422 Certificate II in Engineering Pathways
This course introduces students to the exciting world of engineering and manufacturing, focusing on metal fabrication, machining, hand and power tools, technical drawing, and safe workshop practices. It’s ideal for students interested in mechanical work, metal trades, or precision engineering.

Pathways:
Graduates may progress into:

A full-time apprenticeship in Engineering, Metal Fabrication, Mechanical Fitting, Boilermaking or Toolmaking
Work experience or entry-level roles in manufacturing, maintenance, and engineering workshops
Further study in Certificate III in Engineering – Fabrication Trade or Mechanical Trade

Benefits:

Provides exposure to high-demand industries such as defence, mining, automotive, and shipbuilding
Builds confidence in using technical equipment and interpreting engineering drawings
Helps students develop foundational STEM skills relevant across multiple industries
Offers strong job prospects due to a national skills shortage in engineering trades

Certificate III Advanced Carpentry

Overview: Units from CPC30220 Certificate III in Carpentry
The Doorways to Construction (D2C) Plus program is a half-year, highly practical course designed for students who have already completed the introductory Doorways to Construction program and are ready to take their skills to the next level. The course focuses specifically on carpentry and construction techniques, supported by theoretical knowledge and essential industry-recognised safety units preferred by employers.

Students engage in hands-on projects that replicate real-world carpentry tasks, such as framing, fix-outs, formwork, and tool handling, while continuing to develop their understanding of the building and construction industry.

Pathways:
Completion of the Advanced Carpentry cluster can lead to:

A full-time or school-based apprenticeship in Carpentry or General Construction
Further study in Certificate III in Carpentry or pathways into Building and Construction Management
Employment opportunities as a carpentry labourer or trade assistant, with a strong foundation for future licensing

Benefits:

Builds on the foundations of the initial Doorways to Construction program with more in-depth training and industry exposure
Equips students with job-ready carpentry skills and safety credentials valued on active worksites
Provides opportunities to connect with employers and transition directly into apprenticeships
Supports career progression in a high-demand industry, with long-term potential for self-employment or supervisory roles