Monday April 18th 0900hrs: while most students are enjoying their first sleep in of the Autumn holidays, three Manawatu College students — Alice Astwood (Year 12), Bailey Hamlin (Year 12) and Carla Whittaker (Year 13) — make their way to the Ohakea Air Force Base to begin their week-long Defence Careers Experience (DCE). 

The DCE is an opportunity for students to gain an insight into the life and careers offered by the various defence forces, namely the Air Force, Army and Navy.

Each day was rigorous and followed a to-the-minute routine which started at 0500 (that’s 5:00am for civilians) with a wake-up call, 30 minutes to get ready and an inspection - all before breakfast at 0600.

After breakfast, the 61 students in attendance got into their groups and began their first activity for the day. The activities ranged from gut-busting PT sessions to marching to teamwork challenges which required students to work together as a unit.

The experience was both challenging and rewarding, confirming for the students involved that this is definitely where they see their future.

In addition to the insights and information they gained throughout the week, which included a base visit to Linton Army Camp, the students formed very strong friendships with those attending from other schools.

If you have any interest in a career in any of the defence forces, Carla, Bailey and Alice all recommend taking part in the DCE as it provides you with a first-hand, real-life look into the day to day routines that make up a military career.