The Primary Industry Academy is a skills based course, which links school, Industry Training Organisations, and employers. “Practical Education for the real world”. Volunteer work with a rural focus is a key course component.

LEVEL ONE

Applications are now open and need to be completed online here by Friday 18th August. Code: L1PIA

Course of Study

The Level 1 course provides a taster year to give students exposure to various aspects of primary industry so that they are able to make an informed choice when it comes to selecting their Level 2 course. The end result is work-ready students who have a clearly defined career path ahead of them.

It is a well-resourced course which gives practical, hands-on learning for students. Level One forms part of the two year course with students working towards their New Zealand Certificate in Primary Sector Skills (Level 2).

Entry Criteria

Limited places available –students must apply via written application, a practical interview and attend a formal interview with parents/caregivers . No previous Primary Sector experience is necessary.

Have a keen interest in Primary Industry – Ag, Hort, Fencing, contracting or Forestry

Evidence of good school attendance

Be reliable, motivated, enthusiastic

Assessment

Internal

Up to 40 credits across year 11 &12) – Unit Standards. Students gain National Certificate in Primary Sector Skills Level 2. Field Trips: Approximately 10 teacher- led field visits – no cost

Agri Learn Courses

These are run by Agri Learn in Timaru. Students may gain industry Unit Standard credits in:

Quad and motorbikes – Flat terrain trailed and mounted equipment

Fencing -permanent & temporary

Water supply

These courses are compulsory for all PIA Students. It is expected that once you have confirmed your interest you will commit to the possible extra study to be undertaken in your own time, with help from your teacher, with some practices being held in lunchtimes. You will also be required to attend up to 6 weekend days of practical assessments held in Timaru. Transport to & from home provided.The dates for the practical weekends will be confirmed in November.

Fundraising: students are expected to participate in fundraising activities where they can e.g. tree planting, firewood. Proceeds go towards clothing, equipment and course fees .

LEVEL TWO

Applications for new students to be completed online hereby 18 nd August. Current PIA students do NOT need to reapply. 

Code: L2PIA

Course of Study

Students focus on an area of interest and work towards their New Zealand Certificate in Primary Sector Skills L2 in Agriculture, Dairy, Beef / Sheep, Forestry, Fencing or Horticulture. One day per week on work placement. The practical component is completed in the workplace and the theory units at school.

Students participate in New Zealand Young Farmers’ competition and Agri Learn Training Courses. When possible, these courses are held during weekends.

Chainsaws (3 days)

Advanced Fencing (2 days)

Tractors (up to 2 days)

Animal Handling (1 day)

Class Adventure to the Top of the South Island 4 days T1 or 2 all students.

Mystery Creek Field days Fencing selected students.

Entry Criteria

L1 Primary industry is desirable but not essential. New students must:

Apply to be considered via written application, attend the practical interview and attend an interview with their parents/caregivers

Have a keen interest in Primary Industry – Agriculture, Horticulture, Fencing, Forestry. NB: Forestry entry is by negotiation

Evidence of good school attendance

Be reliable, motivated and enthusiastic

Complete the extra Level 1 AgriLearn courses where applicable

Assessment

Internal

Unit Standards – up to 30-40 credits NZ Certificate in Primary Industry Skills (L2) across Year 11 & 12

Costs

None

LEVEL THREE

Applications for new students to be completed online here by 18th August. 

Code: L3PIA

Course of Study

This course will build an individual programme based on students’ interests. Work experience for 1-2 days per week will be part of this course– this can be during term time, weekends or holidays. A long term practical research project may form part of the course.

Entry Criteria Current PIA students do NOT need to reapply

Entry is by application, practical interview and formal interview only and is aimed at students who are wanting to work in the Primary Sector or in a Trade.. Any student may join this course – Level 2 Primary industry is desirable but not essential.

New students must:

Apply to be considered via written application and attend an interview with their parents/caregivers

Have a keen interest in Primary Industry – Agriculture, Horticulture, Fencing, Contracting or a Trade

Evidence of good school attendance

Be reliable, motivated and enthusiastic

Assessment

Internal

To be negotiated.

Costs

None