There a quite a few LAME's in Qantas who never did an apprenticeship, just did 10 basics and with a bit of good timing ended up on a company course.
BIG call
I know 4 motor mechanics, 2 sheeties, 1 fiberglass, and a pastry chef all lames and all have served apprenticeships, not at qantas but in there trades and all got a course before you.
dont you know all promotions at qantas are merit based
dont be bitter because you did not make the cut
P.S. you need 11 basics to sit a type course