Career Tasters offer Year 10 students immersive, hands‑on experiences across a range of industries—such as health, community services, construction, hospitality and trades—without requiring commitment to a full qualification or school‑based traineeship or apprenticeship. Delivered one day per week over several weeks, students engage in real industry-aligned activities and competency units in a supported TAFE or RTO setting. These tasters provide invaluable insight into workplace culture, practical skills and employer expectations, enabling students to evaluate whether a particular field suits their interests and strengths. This early exposure supports informed decision‑making before committing to formal courses, helping students shape their vocational pathway with confidence and clarity.
TAFE Taster Programs for Year 10 Students
How it works
TAFE Taster programs deliver training to year 10 students, one day per week for up to nine weeks.
Students participate in units of competency, gaining a deeper understanding of an industry. This assists them in making an informed decision when choosing a TAFE at School course or continuing with further studies in the future.
Available programs
The programs* will offer exposure across a variety of industry areas, including:
- agriculture
- hairdressing
- light automotive
- engineering
- plumbing
- carpentry
- heavy automotive
- health care
- community services
- cookery
- finishing trades
- electrical
- furniture making
*Not all study areas are available in all locations. Please refer to your school for further information.
Outcomes
It is important to note that successfully completing this program will not give you a formal qualification or any Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) credits. However after completing the Taster Program you may want to continue your training with a TAFE at School Course or school-based apprenticeship or traineeship, to get a head start on your career while you're still at school.
Eligibility criteria
To take part in the Taster program you must be a year 10 student and be currently studying maths and English at a year 10 level. You must also be able to arrange travel to the relevant TAFE Queensland campus where the program is offered.
In order to apply for the taster program you will also need to have a Unique Student Identifier (USI). Your USI is a reference number that creates a secure online record of your training and qualifications from recognised training providers in Australia. You can quickly and easily create your USI online. To create a USI visit the
Australian Government’s Unique Student Identifier website.What it costs
There is no cost to eligible students. The Taster program is fully funded by the Queensland Government for Year 10 students who are not currently using their VET in Schools funding on another qualification. Participation in this program will not exclude students from accessing future government funding and initiatives.
How to Apply
Term 4 TAFE Tasters are now open.
Step 1: Download the Flyer
Apply at: tafeapply.com
Application Code: Please refer to the flyers for the correct code.
Step 2: Ensure students have the following details ready:
- LUI number
- USI number
- Personal email address
- Mobile number (if available)
We send all communication to both parents and students, so please ensure parent contact details are accurate.
Important Notes
Students who applied for a Term 3 2025 program but were unsuccessful will need to submit a new application.
We encourage students to apply as early as possible to avoid missing out.
Applications close Monday, 8 September 2025
Once we receive the application and school approval, offers will be sent to both parents and students.
📩 Students must accept their offer within 5 business days.
If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact TAFE:
📞 07 5581 8810
📧 schools.goldcoast@tafeqld.edu.au