Victoria University
4 months (bricklaying) or 5 months (carpentry) full-time; 2 years for VDSS students
This pre-apprenticeship program equips aspiring construction workers with foundational skills in bricklaying and carpentry through hands-on training in modern facilities. Designed for school leavers and career changers, it prepares students for apprenticeships and entry-level roles in the building industry.
Applicants must complete a Pre-training Review (PTR) and literacy and numeracy assessment to determine suitability. VDSS applicants have their literacy and numeracy levels assessed through consultation with their secondary school. Meeting minimum admission requirements does not guarantee entry, as some courses receive more applications than available places. Applicants' education, work experience, and other relevant experience may be considered. Special entry programs are available for those from disadvantaged or underrepresented backgrounds.
The course comprises 9 core units covering workplace communication, measurements and calculations, basic levelling procedures, workplace health and safety requirements, emergency life support, construction industry preparation, plan and drawing interpretation, and working platform safety. Students then select one trade stream: Bricklaying (5 units covering tool identification, basic techniques, brick veneer, cavity brick, and masonry blockwork) or Carpentry (10 units including tool identification, setting out, sub-floor construction, wall frames, roof frames, external cladding, windows and doors, interior fixings, timber dismantling, and formwork). All training occurs in multi-million dollar facilities including concrete laboratories, survey laboratories, engine laboratories, soldering/construction laboratories, power systems laboratories, and computer workstations with simulation software.
Victoria University offers state-of-the-art training facilities including the 'Construction Futures' hub with a Six-Star Green rating, providing modern high-tech labs and dynamic workshops. VU is ranked in the top 3% of universities worldwide and #1 for skills development according to QILT. The university maintains over 4000 industry connections and is committed to cultural diversity and inclusivity, creating a supportive learning environment. VU provides comprehensive support through The Learning Hub with 24/7 mentoring and study sessions.
Graduates are well-positioned to secure apprenticeships in bricklaying or carpentry, with employers preferring applicants who have completed pre-apprenticeship training. Career pathways include roles as bricklayers, stonemasons, carpenters, and joiners across the building and construction industries, as well as related sectors such as manufacturing and mining. The program provides a direct pathway to Certificate III qualifications in specialized trades. Earnings potential increases with apprenticeship completion and trade qualification, with salary information available through Jobs and Skills Australia.
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