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Careers & Transition

Te Whare Rapuara

The Careers and Transition Department provides students with careers and course advice services and access to facilities and resources to maximise their career decisions and further study options. The overall focus of career education at Wellington Girls’ College is to assist all students to make informed decisions about their future education, training and work pathways, within and outside college.
The Careers and Transition whare is easily accessed in T20.

Our Team

Ms K Johnson

Tertiary Liaison
Course Advice
Subject Choices
Careers Advice
Hall of Residence Applications
Scholarship Assistance
Studylink Information

Ms R McGuinness

Gateway Teacher
Course Advice, Subject Choices
Careers Advice
Gap Year & Student Exchange
Spirit of New Zealand Co-ordinator
Trades Academy Assistance
.

Ms W Caseley

STAR Co-ordinator
Gateway Co-ordinator
Course Advice
Subject Choices
Careers Advice
Job Vacancies
Job Application Assistance

Ms J McCallister

Common Confidential References for Halls of Residence
Testimonials

 

 

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Ms S Sulaiman

Scholarship and Application References

 

 

 

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Ms J McCallister

Undergraduate Degree Entrance Requirements.

Information about changes in university and polytechnic entry requirements and courses arrive frequently. Students should check out plans for study with the school careers department or on the relevant website.

Tertiary Information

Click HERE to view documents covering university application dates, degree requirements etc

THE ACADEMIC STAIRCASE

Certificates:
Certificates are the first stage in academic study and are offered at some Universities and Poytechnics as well as many private providers. Certificates are usually one year long and typically can be entered with level 1 literacy and numeracy or for some courses completion of Yr 12 is required. Certificates can also be used to staircase into some Diploma programmes or Bachelor degrees providing you pass with excellent results.

Diplomas:
Diplomas are between one and two years long and can provide students with a qualification or they can be used to staircase into Bachelor degrees. Diplomas usually require a minimum of 48 level 2 credits with literacy and numeracy.

Bachelor Degree – Undergraduate:
Bachelors can range from 3 to 5 years plus. Entry to Bachelor degrees is University Entrance but many institutes have higher entry and subject specifications. See UE power point and tertiary websites for details.

Postgraduate Diplomas:
This requires a previous degree majoring in a subject or a related area of study that the postgraduate diploma is in. Some are highly specialized professional qualifications eg the postgraduate diploma in clinical psychology. Some postgraduate diplomas form the first year of a masters degree.

Graduate Diplomas:
Most graduate diplomas can be taken by students with an undergraduate degree major in an unrelated area. They provide an opportunity to change subject areas within your first degree area or in a completely different area. Graduate diplomas can be taken as a way of meeting the prerequisites for further study in a new area, or as a way of completing a “mini-degree” in a different area, enhancing your employment prospects. Some graduate diplomas, eg, the graduate diploma in journalism or social work are professional qualifications which prepare you in a specific field.

Honours Degree:
Postgraduate honours degrees entail one year of full time coursework after completing an undergraduate degree. Most honours programmes comprise a selection from 400 level courses in one subject, though most programmes give you the option of including 1 – 2 courses from another subject.
Usually students study an honours degree in the same subject they majored in for their undergraduate degree. You usually need good 300 level grades to be eligible, but prerequisites can vary between subjects.

Masters Degree:
A masters degree comprises a minimum of one or two years study and can involve either coursework or research or a combination of both. Your research is presented in the form of a thesis, dissertation or a research project. Part time study may be possible but is not automatic. Masters degrees can be awarded with either honours or distinction. Students who are making good progress can apply to transfer to a doctorate.

Doctorate:
A doctorate involves extensive, sustained and original research and study in a subject of your choice, with the results being presented in a thesis.
Your work will contribute to intellectual knowledge in your field. It is normally the highest academic qualification available and is a mark of intellectual ability, self discipline and commitment. A doctorate prepares you for an academic career in your chosen subject.
Candidates must have at least a masters or honours degree with first or second class honours or have been admitted to the university equivalent status. The minimum period of full time enrolment is two years and the maximum is normally four years.

Thinking about university? – Check out this guide for New Zealand students, parents and whānau

Click on the University logos for more information

Click on the Polytechnic logos for more information

NCEA study resources, advice & inspiration
Compare every course and scholarship in New Zealand.
Study Spy - Find your perfect course
Money Hub - Alternative Study Options 2021
Victoria Uni - How our degrees work
Must-Know Tips for Studying Biomed and Health Science
What Employers Want - Know Where Your Qualification Fits on the NZ Qualification Framework
Resources for NCEA Students in 2023
Everything you need to know about student loans, student allowances, StudyLink and repayments

There are many Private Training Establishments in Wellington and throughout New Zealand. See Careers for advice and information.

Understanding the differences between uni and school
Tips on transitioning to uni
Study tips for exam success
Yr 13 checklist - uni bound
Halls application process & tips for students
Schol tips for students
Australian Universities Admissions Centre
UK Tertiary Study
Study In The USA
Top 100 USA Universities
Must-Know Tips for Studying Biomed and Health Science

Careers & Job Seeking Assistance

Careers – How Can I Help Myself?
There are a number of places where you can get information about Careers.
Number one is always checking out ideas with a Careers Adviser.
You can also look for information yourself.

Making the right decisions about jobs, training and careers can be difficult. Career Services can help you and your family make sense of the huge amount of information available to you. Career Services is the government agency that provides free and independent information and advice about jobs, courses, training and careers. The Career Services website has information on over 5000 study and training options, with information on funding and scholarships. There are 670 job profiles, interviews with people doing the job, salary ranges, skills and qualifications needed and workplace demand.

Careers Services
School Leavers' Toolkit
Practical tips to help you discover where to next after school
CV & Cover Letter Templates
Getting Ready For An Interview
Job Vacancy & Recruitment Sites
The Ultimate New Zealand Student Jobs Guide
Complete Student Jobs Guide
Student CV Templates
Cover Letters for Student Jobs
Common Interview Questions
Search for holiday work, part time work or casual work
Find jobs and job vacancies from all career sites in NZ
NZ Salary Guide
SEEK is New Zealand's number one employment marketplace
Trade Me Jobs is one of the biggest job portals in NZ
Apply free to New Zealand’s top internships, graduate jobs & programs
Find a part-time student job in your area
JobBoard Updated Weekly

Women in Trades
https://www.tradecareers.co/links

Train or Retrain
https://www.connected.govt.nz/education-and-training/

Kiwi Trade Apprentices
https://kiwitradeapprentices.org.nz/

Apprenticeships in New Zealand – The Definitive Guide
https://www.moneyhub.co.nz/apprenticeships.html

School Connect
http://www.schoolconnect.co.nz/

My Future
http://myfuture.edu.au/

Show My Pathway
http://choice.skills.org.nz/

Oompher
https://www.careers.govt.nz/about-careers-nz/oompher/

The Skills Organisation
http://skills.org.nz/about-us

Just the Job Career Videos
http://www.justthejob.co.nz/

Occupational Outlook
http://occupationoutlook.mbie.govt.nz/

Personality Test (Based on the Myers Briggs Model)
https://www.16personalities.com/

Moneyhub – What to Study
https://www.moneyhub.co.nz/what-to-study.html

Money Matters & Budgeting Advice
https://www.sorted.org.nz/

Money in a Nutshell
https://www.moneyhub.co.nz/money-in-a-nutshell.html

Subject Choices
https://www.aut.ac.nz/subjectchoices

Top Tips for Choosing NCEA Subjects
https://www.moneyhub.co.nz/top-tips-for-choosing-ncea-subjects.html

NCEA Subject Choice
https://www.careers.govt.nz/ncea-subject-choice/

Resources for NCEA Students
https://www.moneyhub.co.nz/resources-for-ncea-students.html

Exclusive tips to make your money go further while you study
https://www.moneyhub.co.nz/student-money-tips.html

Five Free Must-Haves for High School Students
https://www.moneyhub.co.nz/school-student-freebies.html

Year 13 Leavers’ Checklist
https://www.moneyhub.co.nz/year-13-checklist.html

School Leavers’ Toolkit
https://school-leavers-toolkit.education.govt.nz

Ultimate Leavers’ Checklist
https://www.moneyhub.co.nz/year-13-checklist.html

Infrastructure jobs
https://www.connexis.org.nz/ijobsite/

Wellington JP Services
https://justiceofthepeace.org.nz/Page/Search?Location=Wellington&Surname=

Scholarships & Grants

Are you looking for a scholarship or grant? Check out the links below:

StudySpy Scholarships
Te Pokai Tara - Universities New Zealand Scholarships
MoneyHub - Want free money to study?
Careers.govt.nz Scholarship Info
Auckland University
AUT
Lincoln University
Massey University
University of Otago
University of Canterbury
Waikato University
Victoria University
WelTec
Whitireia
Scholarships for Māori Learners
Scholarships for Pacific learners
Kaiwhakaako Māori
Kia Ora Hauora Scholarships
Māori Education Trust
Scholarships Aotearoa
Teach NZ
First Foundation
Practical information about education for parents and carers
Supporting Pasifika young people, families and communities to unleash their full potential.
The purpose of the scholarship programme is to achieve greater participation by Māori in the health and disability workforce and to help ensure the delivery of quality health services for Māori.
The Hauora Māori Training Fund
The Whakapiki Ake Project engages with rangatahi Māori enrolled in secondary schools to promote health as a career.
We provide support and offer study advice to undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral level students through our Māori student centres, advisers and associations.
New Zealand's five midwifery education providers will work together to support the success of Māori and Pasifika students and increase the number of midwives in our Māori and Pacific communities.
Get support throughout your journey from study to employment with Te Ara Oranga
Learn about the Ngarimu VC and 28th (Māori) Battalion Memorial Scholarships
Sport NZ Funding
Scholarships to Study Abroad
National Collegiate Athletic Association
Six Star Hospitality

Studylink


Student Loan:
The Student Loan is there to help with study costs. You may get a loan to help with your compulsory fees, course-related and living costs. You do have to pay this back.

Student Allowance:
This is a weekly payment for full-time students to help with day-to-day living expenses. There are certain criteria you have to meet to qualify, but you won’t have to pay it back.

Moneyhub Student Loan Information
Studylink Information
Fees Free Information

STAR - Free & Partially Funded Courses

STAR money is available for senior students to have learning experiences outside of school with tertiary providers such as WelTec and Whitireia and private training organisations such as NZ School of Tourism, The Learning Place and YOOBEE. It is intended that students use these experiences to explore options for their futures, to motivate themselves for successful completion of NCEA qualifications and to develop independence and confidence in undertaking new experiences as well as learning skills they may not otherwise have opportunities to learn.

STAR funding subsidizes courses for Y13 students to gain First Aid Certificate, Defensive Driving and City and Guilds Barista certificate.

STAR money is also available to extend our gifted and talented students with such opportunities as sitting university papers in a specific subject.

To find out about current STAR opportunities check our calendar and/or the current notices or come to see Ms Caseley, the STAR Coordinator, in the Careers and Transition Department.

Wellington Community Centre offer an array of courses in the following areas:

  • Speak
  • Look
  • Make
  • Explore
  • Write
  • Taste
  • Play
  • Develop

Check out the website to see what courses are available under these tabs

Courses at Wellington High School.

Defensive Driving Course
Courses advertised throughout the year

Defensive Driving course Cost is $130pp (Subsidised by STAR FUNDING)

Only need to hold a LEARNERS LICENCE to do this course however must be able to drive a car as you will need to do a driving practical assessment

You must attend all 4 x classes held at WGC 3.30pm – 5.30pm one class a week over a 4 week period, plus do a 1 hour practical Def Driving Coaching Session with the instructor (who will provide the car) but this must be done within 2 weeks of the last day of your course. (We arrange this practical assessment during school time)

Within 2 weeks of completing your practical drive you must hand in your completed Defensive Driving book to Ms Caseley

This coaching session and attending 4 classes, and completing the book work is a pre requisite to get 6 months off your Restricted Licence.

This is an amazing course and with the cost being only $130 you should take up this opportunity.

Do not leave this to the last minute to do as the certificates (which you need as proof) can take up to 6 weeks to receive……

Learner Licence
Everything you need to know to pass your Learners Licence will be covered. Open to those students that want to get their Learners Licence. Only one course run per year. See Ms Caseley in Careers

Students can obtain up to eight NCEA credits by passing tests for the Class 1 Driver Licence

Students who have, or who obtain Class 1 driver licences, can be awarded unit standards which count towards NCEA and other qualifications on the NZQF framework.

There are three standards which can be awarded through a ‘recognition of prior learning’ process. The three standards correspond to learner, restricted and full licences.

The learner must present an official photographic Class 1 Driver Licence to their school as part of the process to provide necessary evidence.

  • A learner’s class 1 driver licence counts towards NCEA Level 1 (2 credits).
  • A restricted class 1 driver licence counts towards NCEA Level 2 (4 credits).
  • A full class 1 driver licence counts towards NCEA Level 2 (2 credits).

Students will need to complete the form below, and present their actual Licence to Careers department to be verified in order to gain these credits.

https://www.nzqa.govt.nz/assets/qualifications-and-standards/qualifications/ncea/NCEA-subject-resources/Class-1-driver-licence/NZTA-Class-1-driving-licence-Recognition-of-Prior-Learning.pdf

For beginners, gourmet enthusiasts or those wanting to be the best house party host, a wide range of courses have been designed to satisfy the time and budget conscious. A great way to experience first-hand the world of Le Cordon Bleu.

National Youth Drama School – Holiday Programme.

National Youth Drama School Classes
STAR / Gateway courses at S.I.T
The largest single provider of STAR and Gateway funded courses in New Zealand
NZ School of Tourism - Courses

University of Canterbury Click below for further info and list of papers available. If you are interested see Ms Caseley in Careers.

You need to have an Excellent Endorsement at L2 to do these University papers

Why become a STAR student? STAR at UC offers keen and capable secondary school students:

• a stimulating challenge while they are studying towards University Entrance
• an opportunity to make a head start on their tertiary degree study
• the confidence that they have what it takes to succeed in tertiary study.

What can STAR students study by distance at UC? We offer a wide range of courses across these areas:

• Economics

• Education

• Humanities

• Languages

• Mathematics

• Social Sciences

• Sport Coaching

What does a STAR course involve? Workload expectations As a general guide, a 15-point course at UC should equate to a workload of about 150 hours. If the course is run over one semester (as opposed to whole-year courses), this is a workload of just over 8 hours a week on average, which will include the time spent on tutorials, reading the online course materials and working on assignments.

University of Canterbury - STAR Programme

Most of these courses are offered over each of the terms and the popular courses are run more frequently within each term.

Please note that these courses fill up fast so you need to be proactive about registering your interest with Careers as soon as possible.

Automotive Engineering
This programme is designed to give participants a hands on taste of the Automotive Engineering studies and to help prepare for further study in this industry. this course will cover various practical tasks, underpinned by the relevant theory. Students need to be aware that some additional revision work maybe necessary in order to successfully achieve these units.

Beauty Services Introduction
Gain an understanding of the Beauty services industry. Participate in various practical activities which may include: Make Up – Glamour, Day, Occasional along with Nail Art. Learn what subjects to take at secondary school that will assist them in gaining acceptance into training in the Beauty Services industry.

Beauty Services / Make Up Artistry
Gain an understanding of the Beauty Services industry. Participate in the application of make-up through a range of five products and the use of the different tools of make-up application, cleansing of skin for make-up application, hand care and nail art. Learn what subjects to take at secondary school that will assist them in gaining acceptance into training in the Beauty Therapy / Make Up Artistry industry.

Coffee Making Introduction
Demonstrate knowledge of, and prepare espresso equipment and ingredients. Extract espresso and explain potential problems with espresso and espresso equipment. Prepare milk and explain potential problems with preparing milk for espresso beverages. Participate in various practical activities including: : Learn how to prepare and serve a range of espresso beverages. Present espresso beverages for service.

Business Admin 1
This programme is designed to introduce students to a career in Business admin and to give them a hands on taste of the work involved.

Business Admin II
This programme will introduce students to the key responsibilities and skills required by someone considering working in a receptionist role.

Carpentry
This programme is designed to give participants a hands on taste of the building industry. Students will earn in an up to date, fully equipped workshop. this course is suitable for Y12 & 13 students who have a genuine desire to enter this industry. this course will cover various practical tasks which will be underpinned by relevant theory. Students need to be aware that some additional revision work maybe necessary in order to successfully achieve these unit standards. U

DJ’ing (Introduction)
This programme is designed to introduce participants to the basics of DJ’ing and will provide students with the opportunity to experience a different aspect of the music industry.

Electrical Engineering
This course is designed to give students the opportunity to see what is involved in the electrical and related trades. During this two day course students will learn to make up and connect flexible cords to appliances and accessories. this is an extension of what is covered in the Trades Introduction electrical Day. ideal for students with areal interest in pursuing a career in this field.

Extreme Songwriting (Introduction)
You have only 3 days to compose and perform a hit song! That means choosing a topic, developing characters, deciding song form, writing lyrics, composing music and arranging the performance. Poets, lyricists, singers, songwriters and players of musical instruments are welcome. There will also be the opportunity to have your song recorded live.

Hairdressing
This programme will give students an understanding of the hairdressing industry and the importance of maintaining good stock control procedures and practices. Participate in various practical activities. Braiding, Shampooing hair and scalp, Blow-waving, straightening and Hair Put-ups. Learn what subjects to take at secondary school that will assist them in gaining acceptance into training or an apprenticeship in the hairdressing industry.

Knives & Food Safety (Cookery)
This programme is designed to give students interested in working or preparing for work in a food business the skills and understanding of practices of safe food handling techniques. students will also gain necessary for handling and maintaining knives.

Light Engineering (Fabrication & Welding)
This programme is designed to give students a hands on experience of Light Engineering including ; Fabrication and Welding used in the following industries. Automotive, Plumbing, Drain laying, Gas fitting and Roofing industries. It will assist students with making career choices and prepare them for further study.

Live Sound
This programme is designed to introduce participants to the basics of Live sound theory and practice. students will gain skills top set up and operate small PA systems.

Nursing & Health Studies (Introduction)
An opportunity to meet tutors/ programme managers and current students. Learn about subject choices that will enhance your acceptance on to these programmes.

Learn about the programmes on offer including Certificate in Nursing, Bachelor of Nursing & Bachelor of Health Science (Paramedic). Participate in a range of Nursing Activities.

Performing Arts Experience Day
Students will explore acting, dance and performance skills from the range of courses on offer. These will include a selection from the following: Maori, Cook Islands, Samoan, Contemporary, Jazz, Hip Hop, Acting and Music Theater. If you love to be on stage, love performing and have a live for your own or other cultures – then this is an opportunity not to be missed.

Plumbing, Drain laying, Gas-fitting & Roofing – Soldering
This programme is designed to give students a hands on experience of Plumbing, Drain laying, Gas-fitting & Roofing – Soldering trade areas and help prepare them for further study.

Radio Training
View facilities at the Media Training school and meet with tutors and current students. Have a go at some of these activities: Voice an ad: record a voice break or speed break on air; play a promo game; do a crossover or news read; music quiz.

Trades (Introduction)
This programme is designed to give participants a hands on taste of the various trades (Plumbing/Roofing, Automotive Engineering, Electrical & Carpentry) over 4 days. Includes theory and practical elements.

Check out the programmes on offer at Whitireia

WelTec courses run over Terms 1, 2 & 3.

Most of these courses are offered over each of the terms.

Please note that these courses fill up fast so you need to be proactive about registering your interest with Careers as soon as possible.

Bakery
To gain knowledge and skills to cook food items by baking; and to prepare and produce hot and cold dessert items in a commercial kitchen.

Beauty Therapy (Intro)
Taster courses introduce young people to tertiary studies providing hands on learning experience for one day. This course introduces students into a career as a Beauty Therapist. Students will gain knowledge and skills of basic Hairdressing and Make-Up Artistry.

Cookery
To gain knowledge and skills to handle and maintain knives in a commercial kitchen; and to practice food safety methods in food business while preparing basic dishes.

Hairdressing (Introduction)
Taster courses introduce young people to tertiary studies providing hands on learning experience for one day. This course introduces students into a career as a hairdresser and artist. Students will gain knowledge and skills of basic hairdressing and make-up artistry.

Mocktails
To gain knowledge and skills to prepare and serve hot & cold non alcoholic drinks in a commercial hospitality environment, including mocktails; maintain a safe and secure environment for people in the hospitality industry; and to maintain personal presentation and greet customers in the hospitality industry.

Make- Up Artistry (Intro)
Taster courses introduce young people to tertiary studies providing hands on learning experience for one day. This course introduces students into a career as a make-up artist. Students will gain knowledge and skills in make-up artistry.

Restaurant Services
To gain knowledge and skills to prepare and clear areas for table service in a commercial hospitality environment, and provide table service in a commercial hospitality environment.

Tourism
To gain knowledge and skills to provide customer service for international visitors; and demonstrate cross-cultural communication for the tourism and travel industry.

If you are a secondary school student, you can start learning skills for a career. We offer day courses that give you a taste of what your future career may be like.

There are only two First Aid course run each year targeting Year 13 students. As such students need to check if they need it as a prerequisite entry requirement for their chosen University course. This would be directed at students looking at entering the Health profession.

This is a 2 day course condensed down to a one day course however students will need to do the pre course preparation pack prior to attending. The course is normally held on a Teachers only day.

Applications
Register your interest with Ms Caseley

Cost
Sorry since this is such a popular and expensive course we require participants to contribute towards the cost which is $160.

Y13 MOJO City & Guilds

City & Guilds are pulling out of offering the training with MOJO to gain the Barista qualification in the pacific region, so after May this year no training at this level will be available in NZ. The Careers Department in consultation with MOJO are looking at alternative options for a MOJO Barista course in the future and this site will be updated once this has been arranged.

We offer a number of courses specifically targeted to high school students who are looking to get a head start in the creative world

Gateway

Gateway is a fantastic way to blend conventional school study with workplace learning and experience. It is a programme for career exploration that gives students the opportunity to gain experience and credibility that can be used when applying for tertiary education and employment.

 

Students will:

  • Learn practical industry skills and gain industry knowledge
  • Gain credits that contribute to NCEA
  • Have industry Unit Standards added to their record of learning where applicable
  • Gain Unit Standards that can go towards a range of national qualifications
  • Learn about the range of jobs available
  • Develop first hand knowledge of what it is really like to work in the industry
  • Become confident about entering the workforce through better knowledge of the requirements and expectations of workplaces
  • Be able to make a more informed choice about tertiary study
  • Work in the FlowerPot Pop Up Shop
  • Volunteer

Internal and External Gateway what is the difference?

There are different ways a student can participate in the Gateway Programme. The scheme at WGC is

designed to be flexible and to meet the needs of the student, school and employer as much as possible.

Pathway 1: Gateway Programme as a core subject – Internal Gateway

Students spend 1 day each week in a workplace/industry of their choice for approximately 7 hours/week for 10-20 weeks. A student’s timetable will dictate which day is most suitable as their workday. A student may ‘work’ outside of school hours if that is more suitable.

  • Students choose Gateway as a core subject
  • Submit an application to be on the Gateway programme
  • Have parental support or approval to be on this programme
  • All students complete Core Industry Unit Standards in their Gateway class to achieve a minimum 20
  • Credits (does not include Flowerpot standards)
  • All credit achievement counts towards NCEA (National Certificate of Educational Achievement)
  • All students must participate in The FlowerPot Pop Up Shop (They will gain 15 credits at Level 3 and 5 credits at Level 2 )
  • All students must complete a Health and Safety course (worth 7 credits at Level 3)

Pathway 2: Gateway Programme – NOT as a subject – External Gateway

Students work outside school hours either after school and/or during holiday periods. This would suit students who cannot or do not want to be out of school but want an insight into a specific career/industry area.

  • See Ms Caseley to discuss suitability to be accepted on the External Gateway programme
  • Submit an application to be on the Gateway programme
  • Have parental support or approval to be on this programme
  • Students complete Gateway Industry Unit Standards during study or own time aiming to achieve 20 credits
  • Students meet with Ms Caseley regularly during their study time or lunchtime
  • All credit achievement counts towards NCEA (National Certificate of Educational Achievement)
  • All students must complete a Health and Safety course (worth 7 credits at Level 3)
  • Students have to participate in the FlowerPot Pop Up Shop (They will gain 15 credits at Level 3 and 5 credits at Level 2 )

How to apply

  • Contact Careers Department for further information
  • Fill out an application form

Retail is an exciting career choice with loads of possibilities – from helping customers, product displays, marketing, running a store, to management at head office.

Warehouse Stationery Blue Shirts in Schools is a Gateway programme that gives students a chance to get valuable
work experience in retail and help make the move from school into a career.

Students will gain credits that can be used towards a nationally recognised New Zealand Certificate in Retail.

They’ll be supported along the way and learn important skills in line with industry standards including: effective communication; personal presentation; product knowledge and teamwork.

Blue Shirts Info

Retail is an exciting career choice with loads of possibilities – from helping customers, stock management, marketing, to running a store.

SEEDS (Students Entering Employment Developing Skills) is a Gateway Programme that gives students a chance to get valuable work experience in supermarket retail and help make the transition from school into a career.

Students will gain credits that can be used towards a nationally recognised New Zealand Certificate in Retail.

This could also lead to a career in retail or a pathway into a butchery or bakery apprenticeship. They’ll be supported all the way and learn important skills in line with industry standards including: customer service; personal presentation; food safety; product knowledge and teamwork

Countdown SEEDs Info

Harness Racing NZ – So you are interested in horses?

Recognizing the need to educate and inform the younger members of our communities about the horse and the harness racing industry, Harness Racing New Zealand now offer equine training for high school students. The students have access to first class workbooks, resources and assessments that have embedded numeracy and literacy and were developed by industry professionals.

The following are a sample of the unit standards that are available to students to gain credits for. There are a number of other unit standards available.

  • 1660 Identify and catch, and prepare a horse for exercise
  • 1656 Groom a horse
  • 6579 Clean and maintain saddlery for horses
  • 1658 Demonstrate knowledge of the nature and requirement of a career in the equine industry

 

NZ FASHION TECH NZ – For students interested in a career in the fashion industry.

The following are the unit standards that are available to students to gain credits for:

  • 17914 * Demonstrate knowledge of workplace practice in the apparel or textile industry
  • 17915  Demonstrate knowledge of safe working practices in the apparel or textile industry
  • 4838 Demonstrate knowledge of clothing materials
    * The 20 day component in Unit 17914 includes attendance at both school and work experience

The Flower Pot

The creation of a pop-up shop, The Flower Pot was borne of the idea to provide as part of the Gateway programme, opportunities and real life experiences for students beyond what ‘the classroom’ or the Gateway placement could provide.

It will be hands-on learning with a high degree of responsibility and accountability but within a well-supported and managed framework. Students will gain valuable transferable skills and experience that will assist them in whatever career path they pursue.

How does it work?
There are different ways a student can participate in the FlowerPot External Gateway Programme. The scheme at WGC is designed to be flexible and to meet the needs of the student and the school as much as possible.

The FlowerPot External Gateway programme :

  • Students identify an area they wish to specialize in or choose to be a FlowerPot assistant
  • Students are assigned tasks and responsibilities after discussing their interests with us
  • Students meet with Ms Caseley regularly at least one period each week during their study or during morning tea / lunchtime
  • FlowerPot is specifically run for Mothers Day
  • All credit achievement counts towards NCEA (National Certificate of Educational Achievement)
  • Students will receive written reference at the end of their rotation
  • Open to Y11 – Y13 students

Skills gained by Gateway Students by being actively involved in the FlowerPot Pop Up Shop.

  • Communication
  • Teamwork
  • Problem resolution
  • Planning & goal setting
  • Time management
  • Ability to meet deadlines
  • Sales, marketing and promotion
  • Resolving disputes
  • Meeting management
  • Brainstorming
  • Responsibility
  • Public Speaking
  • Making connections
  • Networking / Social Networking
  • Pricing and finance
  • Budgeting skills
  • Cash handling
  • Simple and efficient record keeping
  • Administration and using office equipment
  • Using IT effectively
  • Personal Productivity
  • Imagination –Inventiveness
  • Prepare an array of floral products
  • Condition and trim the flowers and foliage for keeping them fresh
  • Package and display giftware
  • Purchase stock
  • Stock control and inventory
  • Product and shop display


HITO Schools Gateway Programme

Careers in the beauty, barbering and hairdressing industries promise real opportunity, excitement and diversity. HITO’s Gateway programme is a great way for secondary school students to experience first-hand what it’s like to work in these industries.

How it works
Students enrolled in Gateway spend one day per week (for a minimum of 10 weeks) doing work experience in a barbershop, beauty therapy clinic or hair salon. This time can be spread throughout the school year or completed during term breaks.

Units
All units in the Gateway Programme are Level 2.

Hairdressing Gateway students learn a variety of practical skills within the salon environment, including communicating with customers and preparing salon equipment, which are supported by additional theory.

  • 21940 Demonstrate knowledge of workplace requirements for employment in salon (5 credits)
  • 28025 Demonstrate knowledge of the client journey in a salon (2 credits)
  • 21938 Converse and interact with clients and operators in a salon environment (3 credits)
  • 21937 Assist an operator in a salon environment (4 credits)
  • 9953 Provide client service and care in a hairdressing or barbering salon (4 credits)
  • 28026 Present a personal fashion image for work in a hairdressing salon environment (3 credits)

The Hairdressing Gateway course can lead onto an apprenticeship

Barbering Gateway students learn how to assist with a variety of basic barbering tasks and how to be a productive barbershop employee. Their practical learning is supported by theory.

  • 21940 Demonstrate knowledge of workplace requirements for employment in salon (5 credits)
  • 28025 Demonstrate knowledge of the client journey in a salon (2 credits)
  • 21938 Converse and interact with clients and operators in a salon environment (3 credits)
  • 21935 Maintain order and supplies in a hairdressing or barbering salon environment (5 credits)
  • 19808 Select and maintain barbering tools and equipment (4 credits)
  • 21936 Protect the client for hairdressing services in a salon environment (1 credit)

The Barbering Gateway course can lead onto an apprenticeship

Beauty therapy Gateway students learn a variety of basic beauty skills, including maintaining stock, assisting senior operators, and presenting themselves suitably in the workplace. Students spend time in the clinic learning practical skills which are supported by additional theory.

21940 Demonstrate knowledge of workplace requirements for employment in salon (5 credits)
28025 Demonstrate knowledge of the client journey in a salon (2 credits)
27639 Apply knowledge of basic beauty concepts to maintain personal presentation for a commercial beauty salon (3 credits)
21938 Converse and interact with clients and operators in a salon environment (5 credits)
27637 Maintain order and supplies for a commercial beauty salon (4 credits)
27638 Provide client service and care and assist the operator to prepare for service in a beauty salon environment (3 credits)

The Beauty Therapy Gateway course can lead onto an apprenticeship

Further Information

This is the introductory brochure for the HITO Schools Gateway Programme.
https://www.hito.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/12061-guide-to-gateway-update-june-2019-v2.pdf

Application / Enrollment process

If you are interested in any of these HITO Gateway programmes please contact Ms Caseley in the Careers Department to discuss your suitability.

You will have two options:

  • Doing this as part of the mainstream Gateway class (You will be already taking or prepared to move to Gateway as a core subject)
  • Alternatively do this programme externally. External Gateway means you will do this course in addition to your already existing subjects but your placement in a Salon will be done outside school hours or on the weekend.

Discuss the programme with your parents to ensure you have their support

You should have already approached or have been working at a salon who is willing to take you on or alternatively provide a list of Salons that you may wish to do your placement at.

If selected you will be required to fill out various Gateway forms which the Careers Department will give you if your application is successful and fill out the attached HITO Student enrolment form
https://www.hito.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/schools-programme-enrolment-form-v2.pdf

New Zealand Institute of Sports – Gateway programmes

Have fun and learn new skills during your school holidays and gain extra NCEA Level 2 and 3 credits. NZIS offers Level 2 and Level 3 Gateway programmes over the school holidays. (Please note you must attend all 5 days)

Why choose the NZIS Gateway programme?

The NZIS Gateway programmes provide a perfect introduction to the recreation, health, fitness or sports industries and give you a taste of what tertiary study would be like.

NZIS Gateway programmes includes:

  • Practical and classroom sessions
  • Work placements
  • Guest speakers
  • Fitness fun
  • Gain credits (approx 8 – 10 credits)

Sports, Fitness & Recreation (Level 2) Programme

  • Demonstrate knowledge of time management Demonstrate, instruct and monitor static stretching (murray not sure why i have a gap below between bullet point but i can not correct it)
  • Demonstrate, instruct and monitor correct use of cardiovascular exercise equipment
  • Participate in a team or group which has an objective
  • Communication with people from other cultures
  • Demonstrate correct techniques when using basic gym equipment
  • Demonstrate knowledge of basic skills at a beginners level for sport
  • Describe benefits of participation in recreation in the local community

Sports, Coaching & Officiating (Level 3) Programme

Demonstrate knowledge of injury prevention and risk and injury management in sport and recreation

  • Plan a beginner level coaching session for sport participants
  • Conduct and review a beginner level coach session
  • Apply sport rules and regulations while officiating in a competitive sports event

Contact the Careers Department if interested

Retail is an exciting career choice with loads of possibilities – from helping customers, product displays, marketing, running a store, to management at head office.

Warehouse Red Shirts in Schools is a gateway programme that gives students a chance to get valuable work experience in retail and help make the move from school into a career.

Students will gain credits that can be used towards a nationally recognised New Zealand Certificate in Retail.
They’ll be supported all the way and learn important skills in line with industry standards including: effective communication; personal presentation; product knowledge and teamwork.

Red Shirts Info

Youth Development Programme

If you are a year 12 or 13 Gateway student who is interested in youth work, social work or other careers in the social services sector, then Youthline Wellington has a programme for you.

Youthline Wellington has been running a Youth Development Programme (YDP) since 2011. The purpose of YDP is to provide an opportunity for year 13 Gateway students in the Wellington region to gain valuable skills and knowledge in the social services field.

The programme consists of weekly 2 hour sessions over the school terms 2 and 3, in Wellington Central, and Porirua. Students who participate and complete all course work and maintain an attendance of over 80% will gain a New Zealand Level 3 Certificate in Youth Work, and 44 NCEA Level 3 Credits.

Here are some quotes from past students:

“I enjoy the interaction between the group and facilitators and how they’re interested in how you are and what you’ve been doing and genuinely interested in your opinion or comments towards the topic at hand. I’m getting friends out of this course and people skills learning from the other people’s experiences and how even through we’re from different backgrounds we’re still important.”

“I enjoy learning about how we handle ourselves in different ways throughout different challenges in life. I have learnt about the Treaty of Waitangi in a much better way compared to learning it at school.”

If you are interested in this programme please contact the Careers Department

Gap Year

A gap year is simply a year, or even less, taken out from formal education.

NB: The closing date for some GAP providers (Lattitude/Tutors Worldwide) is March of the prior year to travel.|

This year may occur during the transition from secondary school to tertiary education, or even after completing all formal education but before entering the workforce. Regardless of when it occurs, there are many options for gap years that include travel, work or volunteering.

For an excellent overview of taking a gap year, what type of things you can do, including advantages and disadvantages of taking time away from study visit https://www.careers.govt.nz/plan-your-career/im-at-school-and-need-ideas/taking-a-gap-year/

There are several organisations that can assist with overseas placements. Some of these are:

Latitude Global Volunteering
Projects Abroad
IEP Gap Year
Au Pair NZ
Volunteer Service Abroad
Camp Counselors USA

Student Exchange Programs

There is a variety of organisations that provide student exchanges to a multitude of destinations world wide. These are generally for a full year or a semester with varying departure dates. This is a brilliant opportunity to learn a new culture and perhaps a new language.

AFS Intercultural Programs
High School Exchanges
Student Exchange AU/NZ
STS High School Exchanges

Whānau as Career Educators


Parents and whānau are often the first and preferred choice for information, advice and guidance for young people when making career decisions. Parents and whānau ,working alongside school Career Advisors, have a positive impact on student learning and transition outcomes.


Often parents and whanau hear the word ‘career’ and think back to when they were younger it was the norm to choose a career path for life.  Those days are gone.  

Many parents and whānau report they feel overwhelmed about how to help their teenager in making informed career decisions. They often believe they might give them incorrect advice, resulting in the teenager making the wrong decision.  In today’s fast changing world there is no such thing as a wrong choice because a career decision is not a single event. Career paths are no longer linear with a fixed destination, rather career paths are now a journey, with multiple roads and numerous destinations, guided by available support, and ever-growing opportunities.  There will be bumps in the road along the way however, the key is to support your teen in overcoming these bumps. We have a forgiving education system that enables students to recover from false starts so be sure that teens understand the power of resilience and the ability to bounce back is a skill that will serve them well in the 21st century working world.

Parent Resources

  1. Notice and name your Child’s Skills
    Is your teenager really good with people? Mention that they have strong social skills. People skills and interpersonal skills are something that employers are constantly crying out for. Are they avid readers? Mention how people who read a lot have strong critical thinking skills. Try and get in the habit of noticing and naming what they have natural skills and abilities in. That is who they are and that is what they need to know about themselves. “The new question is not what do you want to be but rather how do you want to be? (Savicks, 2019)
  2. Grow your own Network of Contacts
    Grow your own network of contacts and then introduce your teens to interesting people. This will be useful both now as they are deciding what to do after secondary school and later as they are looking for work in their chosen field.
  3. Listen Quietly
    Listen quietly, patiently and uncritically. Just listen and restrain yourself from offering opinions/advice/solutions. As you listen, encourage them to tell you: What do they think are their strengths? What things do they find challenging? Who would they most like to be like?
  4. Find Neutral Sources of Information
    The ability to find and locate information is another important career development skill. Remember that you as a parent/caregiver are not neutral. If they want to pursue a career that you suspect will be low paid or if you think their chances of finding work in that field will be difficult, instead of telling them they are wrong show them neutral sources of information on income levels and labour market statistics. Three websites with great labour market information relevant to New Zealand are:https://www.careers.govt.nz/jobs-database/
    https://occupationoutlook.mbie.govt.nz/
    https://skillshortages.immigration.govt.nz/
  5. Be open to all Possible Opportunities’
    If you keep an open mind to what’s possible, they will begin to believe in different possibilities for their future. Remember your children are not static and they may have many careers throughout their working life
  6. Critically Examine your Definition of Success
    Research shows that once you can provide financially for yourself and your family, additional salary and benefits don’t reliably contribute to worker satisfaction. Much more important are things like whether a job allows you to be in control of your own time, whether you work alongside others whom you respect and whether you feel your job is meaningful.
  7. Encourage Curiosity
    Encourage them to talk to people, to try out new things. Lead by example. Encourage them to do some voluntary work – there are great websites called: https://www.letscollaborate.co.nz/our-kaupapa & https://www.volunteeringnz.org.nz/.
    These list both long and short term volunteering opportunities. Encourage them to get a part-time job. Working part-time will grow their employability and working in customer service will show potential employers that they have work-ready skills that employers value.
  8. Take Action
    Action is the antidote to not knowing what to do with your life. Very few people have this searing moment of clarity where they just instantly know what they are supposed to do with their lives; instead people discover what they like and what they are interested in but trying a lot of different things (Symington, 2014). So keep encouraging the young people to try new things.
  9. Value Emotional Intelligence
    Remember that you cannot choose well if you only base your decisions on rational thought. Like it or not, we are emotional. Human beings invariably include emotions in their decision making processes. By all means, get the facts, know the numbers, know the labour market, know the salary expectations, but don’t discount how you feel about it.
  10. Embrace Uncertainty
    As a society, we seem to be nervous about uncertainty. A lot of us like to know what the plan is, and like to feel secure that we know what’s coming our way, and that is not always helpful when it comes to career development. A really important career skill is to learn about how to capitalise on chance events and how to realise that the chance of something good happening is just as likely, if not more likely, than something not so good. Have conversations with your teenagers about things in your life that were lucky, things in your life that seemed to be chance events that led you to a great opportunity, times in your life when you were presented with an unexpected opportunity and ran with it – help them see that all plans need to be flexible. An inflexible plan can easily lead to disappointment whereas a flexible plan leaves room for unexpected positives.(Lila Pulsford, 2019)

Tips for Parents:

Model what you know and want. Your teen is watching and listening. Take the time to connect, put your phone away, and make sure the time you have with your teen is uninterrupted. Ask for your teen’s input, what help do they want from you, when would be a good time to talk? Ask for feedback, if you give them some information or advice, ask if that is helpful and of benefit to them?

Connect with the school. This includes classroom teachers, their Dean the Career Advisors and Wānanga teachers. Show your teen that you support their goals and understand what they need to do academically to achieve these.

Be informed. Take some time to become familiar with the website, careers calendar and the career management programme WGC is using. Organise visits to training providers, open days and information evenings.


(The National Parent Forum of Scotland)

1. Thinking About University
This replaces the printed guide Universities New Zealand have produced over the last three 3 years and is aimed at the needs of Year 12 and 13 students, their families and whānau.
http://www.thinkingaboutuni.nz/

2. MoneyHub
https://www.moneyhub.co.nz/cv-template-students.html

3. Career Central
How & Why to use Career Central:
https://rise.articulate.com/share/-mT39A_fW0cYj1ZO5x7v7Fy70ZgprAFu#/lessons/VDyd_trRc4I4Paxrs_B0oVFkOzmuupif
Sign into Career Central from home: https://careercentral.school.nz/

4. School Leavers Toolkit
https://school-leavers-toolkit.education.govt.nz/

5. Tertiary Parents & Whanau guidebooks
University of Auckland
https://cdn.auckland.ac.nz/assets/central/for/international-students/prospectuses-flyers/2015%20Parents’%20Guide.pdf

Auckland University of Technology
https://www.aut.ac.nz/__data/assets/pdf_file/0004/177223/parents-guide-final-for-web.pdf

University of Canterbury
https://www.canterbury.ac.nz/media/documents/2020-Parent-Whanau-Guide-LIAI8027.pdf

Lincoln University
http://dotnetrest.lincoln.ac.nz/O365flowClient/cache/sites/www-content/Lincoln%20WWW/Documents/Brochures/Guides/LIN2991%20Parents%20Guide%20_WEB.pdf

University of Otago
https://www.otago.ac.nz/otago706198.pdf

Victoria University of Wellington
https://www.wgtn.ac.nz/study/course-planning/publications/guide-for-parents/guide-for-parents.pdf

Massey University
https://www.massey.ac.nz/massey/prospective/expect/parent-sup/family-guide-on-campus.cfm

University of Waikato
https://www.waikato.ac.nz/study/information-for-parents-and-whanau