TAFE at School Gold Coast Region
Career Taster Vehicle Trades
Program Description
Get hands on and explore the future of the automotive industry through this practical, non-accredited program designed to build skills, confidence and clear career pathways. This immersive 9-day experience begins with a one-day orientation and workshop safety induction, giving students the knowledge and expectations required to work safely and confidently in a trade environment.
Participants then rotate through eight days of practical automotive trade exposure, gaining real world experience across light vehicle, heavy and commercial vehicles, automotive engineering and automotive electrical systems. The program is delivered end to end by skilled teachers, with a strong focus on collaboration across trades, ensuring a well-rounded and engaging learning experience. Students will also benefit from industry engagement opportunities, including guest speakers and insights from past apprentices, helping to connect training with real world pathways.
Through hands on workshop activities, students are introduced to the fundamentals of light vehicle servicing and maintenance, exploring key systems found in cars and small vehicles while developing foundational workshop skills used across the automotive industry. Students gain exposure to the technology and servicing requirements of heavy and commercial vehicles, learning about truck systems, routine maintenance tasks and the specialised tools and environments used in the commercial transport industry. Participants also explore how vehicles are designed, tested and improved through practical engineering activities, developing an understanding of structural design, mechanical forces and performance testing. In addition, students are introduced to automotive electrical systems, where they learn how circuits, sensors and wiring systems operate, and how common electrical faults are identified and repaired in modern vehicles.
The experience wraps up with an end of program celebration, recognising student achievements and providing an opportunity to showcase their work.
Topics Covered: Light vehicle, Heavy and Commercial Vehicle, Vehicle Electrical, Vehicle Engineering.
Timetable Information
Class times: 8:00am - 3:00pm
Delivery Mode: Face to Face
Duration: 9 weeks
Location: Ashmore Campus
Address: Benowa Road & Heeb Street, Ashmore 4214
First Day: Students to meet in the courtyard outside cafeteria (A block on Ground Level). Please refer to the https://issuu.com/tafeqldgctas/docs/ashmore_campus_map for location details
For more information about the program, visit https://tafeqld.edu.au/news-and-events/events/rolling/goldcoastcareer-taster-programs
Eligibility Criteria
To take part in the Career Taster program you must be 15 to 17 years old and either:
• Be a Year 10 student currently enrolled in a mainstream Queensland school, or
• Be enrolled in a Special Assistance School, or
• Be disengaged from school.
Resources Required
Under Workplace Health and Safety legislation students are legally required to always wear appropriate protective clothing in class and around the Trades area. You will need to have the following:
• Steel capped safety work boots
• 100% cotton drill industry-standard clothing – overall or long-sleeved shirt and pants
• Safety Glasses
• Stationery such as pens, notebook, pencils and eraser
• Note: No Singlets or crop tops can be worn to any of the classes
Campus Facilities
Check out our Ashmore Trade Training hub Ashmore TAFE Campus & Courses - Gold Coast | TAFE Queensland (tafeqld.edu.au)
Facilities and Services
• Campus Library
• Customer Service Centre
• Student Learning Hub
• Canteen
Parking and Public Transport
• Free parking is available on campus.
• Bus stops are located out the front of the Heeb Street entrance.
Program Funding
The Career Taster Program is fully funded by the Queensland Government and is offered at no cost to eligible Year 10 students. It is also important to note that this program does not use any of your VET in Schools (VETiS) funding entitlement. Disclaimer: The information contained in this brochure is to be read in conjunction with the course information.
Contact Us
Enrolment and Program Enquiries
Email: Schools.GoldCoast@tafeqld.edu.au
Phone: (07) 5581 8810
Attendance/ Absences
Email: SchoolAbsentees.GoldCoast@tafeqld.edu.au
Important - Please include Full Name, Contact Number, and your program enquiry. Parent/guardian email required.