At Gold Coast Trades College, our High School Programs are designed to give students a genuine head start in the trades. We combine structured theory with hands-on training in industry-standard workshops that replicate real workplace environments — so students learn by doing, not just by listening.

Available to students in Years 10, 11 and 12, our programs allow young people to begin building practical skills and working towards apprenticeship pathways while still at school. Whether students intend to transition straight into an apprenticeship or continue further study after Year 12, they graduate with real experience, confidence and direction.

Across our Construction, Plumbing, Electrotechnology and Automotive trade streams, students complete targeted short courses that help them:

• Discover their interests and strengths
• Develop real-world, job-ready skills
• Gain exposure to industry expectations
• Build employability and workplace confidence
• Contribute credit points toward their Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE)

Our flexible delivery model is designed to complement Senior Schooling commitments, allowing students to balance their academic requirements with vocational training. This structure supports a smooth transition from school into apprenticeships, traineeships or further study — backed by nationally recognised qualifications that enhance employability.

At Gold Coast Trades College, training is practical, purposeful and supportive. We focus on helping students thrive in the trades industry — not simply sit in a classroom and hope for the best.

Our High School Programs are supported by Queensland Government funding, making them accessible to a broad range of eligible students.

Eligibility criteria apply.

We warmly encourage parents and carers to visit our campus prior to enrolment. Seeing our facilities, meeting our trainers and understanding our supportive learning environment firsthand helps families feel confident they are making the right choice.