If I already have the qualification, Can I Redo it as an Apprenticeship

Many people who start an apprenticeship or traineeship have not done any post-school education. This is particularly true amongst young school-leavers.

However, recently we have seen an increase in adult and mature apprentices and trainees, and young people who complete a vocational qualification either at school or prior to starting an apprenticeship or traineeship. For these people it is important to keep in mind that you can't re-do the same vocational qualification once you have completed it.

This means that if you have done a certain certificate or diploma, you won't be able to do the same one as an apprenticeship or traineeship. For people who want to do some training before starting an apprenticeship or traineeship, this is important to remember.

You can also do an apprenticeship or traineeship in a different area in some circumstances.

You may be able to do an apprenticeship or traineeship at the same level, providing it leads to a different occupation outcome that is listed on the National Skills Needs List (NSNL).

The rules around what you can and can’t do as an apprenticeship or traineeship if you have already completed a qualification are complex.

There are 3 areas of your previous qualification that taken into consideration:

• What industry your previous qualification was in;
• What certificate level it was;
• The year you commenced that qualification.

Then these areas of the apprenticeship or traineeship you want to do are considered:

• What certificate level it is;
• Is it on the National Skills Needs List (NSNL);
• Does it lead to a different occupational outcome.

With so many factors in each decision it is best to check your eligibility with your Australian Apprentice Support Network (AASN) provider before you make any decisions about accepting an offer of an apprenticeship or traineeship.