Two years after becoming the first state trade school in NSW, Colyton High School Trade School continues to give students a head start in their careers.

Specialising in construction training in partnership with the Housing Industry Association, Colyton High School Trade School gives students the opportunity to take part in school-based apprenticeships and traineeships while still attending school.

The formal study and on-the-job training not only contributes to their HSC but also means they have completed the first year of a full-time apprenticeship in a skill shortage area such as construction or hospitality.

Vocational Education and Training co-ordinator Kim Bosnich said the program had revolutionised the way apprenticeships were looked at by the employer and employee.

``The benefits are plain to see,'' she said.

``In essence, the students do the first year of their apprenticeship part-time in years 11 and 12, and walk out of school with a full-time job.

``They also have the comfort of knowing they have the HSC to fall back on if things don't work out,'' she said.

``Employers get the chance to mould their apprentices from the start and it could potentially help the high drop-out rate of apprentices by introducing them slowly into the workforce.''

Three students graduated from the program last year, and a further 18 students have expressed interest in being involved in the 2009 school year.