I am completing the HITO Level 2 Gateway Programme, the unit standards count towards NCEA plus count towards a hairdressing apprenticeship qualification if I decide to do this in the future.

I thought Gateway was a good idea for year 12 to explore possible career options since I had no clue what I wanted to do or when I wanted to leave school. I attended 3 taster days; my first taster was at McKenzie Lifestyle Village where I helped prepare meals and helped get the residents ready for the day. My second taster was at Geraldine Preschool where I pretty much just hung out with the children and helped around the playground throughout the day. My last taster was in hairdressing and is my current placement. I am working at Hair n Mind in Geraldine where I assist a senior stylist, sweep floors, wash and tone hair and sometimes get to assist on a colouring.  I really enjoy working at the salon but I'm not sure if it's definitely what I want to do. Next year I will probably stay at school for year 13 or even just do half a year till I figure out what I want to do alongside getting my level 3. I would recommend taking gateway for students that are wanting to experience the work force and explore options if they are not sure on what they are wanting to do after school.