Published: 26th July 2022.
Written by Jodie Magrath
Learning a trade can be extremely worthwhile. You’ll not only be prepared to take on a range of work opportunities, you’ll also develop skills that can prepare you for a lifelong career. If you’re interested in a trade or planning to start an apprenticeship, a course in your trade sector can give you the start you need. If you’re not sure which qualification would be best for you, here are some of the most popular choices for further study in trades:
Certificate II in Floristry (Assistant)
A Certificate II in Floristry (Assistant) is a great way to get started in a career in floristry. You’ll develop the skills to create various flower arrangements in a floristry assistant role. This course will allow you to recognise flower and plant materials, assemble floristry products and use floristry tools and equipment. The Certificate II in Floristry (Assistant) also covers topics such as receiving, storing, and caring for floristry stock and interacting with customers.
Certificate II in Building and Construction Pre-apprenticeship
The Certificate II in Building and Construction Pre-apprenticeship can prepare you to take on an apprenticeship in the building and construction industry. You’ll develop basic construction skills and be able to use tools and other industry equipment. The course also covers measurements and calculations, basic levelling procedures and interpretation of plans and drawings. You might work as an apprentice bricklayer, apprentice carpenter, apprentice scaffolder or builders labourer.
Certificate II in Plumbing
If you’re planning to work as an apprentice plumber or builders labourer, consider enrolling in a Certificate II in Plumbing. This course will develop your skills with welding (oxy/metal arc), carrying out levelling, reading plans and calculating plumbing quantities. The Certificate II in Plumbing also covers topics such as working safely in the construction industry, including on roofs and at heights.
Certificate II in Electrotechnology
A Certificate II in Electrotechnology can lead to a successful apprenticeship in the electrical industry. You might take on an apprenticeship as an electrician, electrical fitter, air conditioning and refrigeration mechanic or electrical and instrumentation technician. This course covers topics such as fixing and securing electrotechnology equipment, solving problems in ELV single path circuits and carrying out basic network cabling for ELV equipment and devices.
Certificate III in Floristry
The Certificate III in Floristry can help you advance your career in this rewarding industry. You’ll be prepared to work in roles such as florist or floristry assistant and will be able to design and create professional flower arrangements. The Certificate III in Floristry also covers floristry tools and equipment, hand-tied and wired floristry products, flower and plant materials, design and colour fundamentals and sales and merchandising.
Certificate III in Carpentry
If you want to further your building skills as part of a carpentry apprenticeship, a Certificate III in Carpentry is the qualification you need. You’ll learn to use carpentry tools and equipment, handle carpentry materials, install floors, construct wall frames, erect roof trusses and install windows. This course also covers topics such as working safely on a construction site. You might be employed as an apprentice carpenter, apprentice joiner or formwork carpenter.
Certificate IV in Plumbing and Services
The Certificate IV in Plumbing and Services is designed for qualified plumbers who need to further their skills to get a speciality licence in hydraulics or operations. You’ll cover topics to prepare you for work as a drainer or gasfitter including designing and sizing plumbing, gas, sanitary and drainage systems. This course also explores business skills including legal and risk management, workplace health and safety and cost estimates.