An Australian School-based Apprenticeship (ASbA) gives students in Years 10, 11 and 12 the chance to gain a nationally recognised qualification while completing their school studies. Students earn a wage, learn practical skills at work and complete formal training as part of their education program.
This pathway helps students explore real career opportunities, build confidence and create a strong foundation for life after school.
For full details and current eligibility, refer to the ACT Government website.
You can also download the Cple ASbA Enrolment Guide to understand how to get started with your ASbA Pathway.
Every training provider offers different qualifications, support and study models. When choosing a provider, students, parents and schools should consider:
• How often students attend in-person classes
• How flexible the study model is
• What support the provider offers
• Whether the training counts toward the Year 10 or Year 12 Certificate
• The provider’s reputation in the sector
At Cple, we work closely with schools and employers to create a supportive experience where every student can succeed. Our flexible models make it easier to balance school, work and training.
ASbA qualifications at Cple
We offer ASbAs across three qualifications.
CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care
For this pathway, students will need to be employed within the early childhood education and care sector. This hands-on experience is a key part of the qualification.
BSB20120 Certificate II in Workplace Skills
A great fit for most workplaces. This qualification suits a wide range of job types, so students have many options when choosing a workplace.
BSB30120 Certificate III in Business
For this pathway, students will need to be working in a business where they complete administration or customer service tasks. These skills are practical and transferable across many industries.
How ASbA study works at Cple?
ASbA students can use all of Cple’s flexible study options. This includes online learning, optional in-person sessions for extra support and personalised help from our trainers. We work with each student to create a plan that fits their life and commitments.
Each study plan is tailored and built around the student’s:
- School timetable
- Workplace roster
- Personal commitments
Our most common study model
- Students work two days per week in their ASbA workplace
- Once each month, one of those workdays includes an in-person study session at Cple
- Study session days may change each semester to match school and workplace needs
Why this study model works
This structure ensures:
- Minimal impact on school subjects
- Smooth coordination with employer rosters
- Consistent contact with trainers
- Manageable learning that fits around Year 10–12 schedules
Funding options
Students only pay a $350 Student Administration Fee at enrolment. A payment plan for this fee is also available.
The Government covers the remaining training cost.
For full details, view our User Choice Funding information.
Australian Apprenticeships in the ACT are funded by the ACT and Australian Governments.
How long will it take to complete a qualification?
At Cple, students are not required to complete their full qualification before finishing school. Progress is based on each student’s individual assessment schedule.
If the qualification is not completed by graduation, students can transition into a full-time or part-time traineeship with their current workplace.
Cple will support the student to engage in these discussions with their workplace.
When can students start an ASbA with Cple?
Any time.
Cple has rolling enrolments, which means you do not need to wait for a term or semester. Students can start when they feel ready, without pressure or deadlines.
How to start an ASBA with Cple?
Students begin by completing Work Experience (WEX) in the industry they are interested in. This helps students decide if the pathway is right for them and gives them a chance to build a connection with a potential employer.
Students can arrange WEX through their school WEX Coordinator, Careers Advisor or VET Coordinator.
If the WEX goes well for both the student and the employer, the next step is to discuss starting an ASbA with the school, the employer and Cple.
The ASbA Information Pack explains each step in the enrolment process.
Eligibility for ACT User Choice funding (ASbA)
To be eligible for a User Choice training contract, an Australian School-based Apprentice must:
School enrolment requirement
- Be enrolled in a school under legislation that covers education in the relevant state/territory
Work and study requirements
- Combine part-time work with an employer and structured industry-approved training whilst attending school
Ongoing training and employment
- Continue employment and on/off-the-job training throughout the year, including school holidays.
Funded Pathways Available
Many of our courses are government funded. Find out if you’re eligible.