Gateway is a great way to find out about and trial potential careers, every year the variety of careers being investigated expands, it is definitely not limited to trades.

This year our Gateway Programme has expanded to accommodate growing demand. We have successfully placed over 50 students in regular weekly work experience placements with students trying out careers, gaining NCEA credits that count towards industry qualifications and making valuable connections to employers and training providers. Students completing the programme are in a better position to make informed career decisions, setting them up well for a smooth transition to future employment and training opportunities.

Work experience largely takes place on Flex Wednesday which means that students have not missed their academic subjects at school and for those heading out on different days, Wednesday is their catchup/study day. Students have learnt and are demonstrating their work ready skills that all employers value such as reliability, good communication, positive attitude, listening, following instructions, and not using cell phones in work hours. The increase in confidence and independence is really noticeable.

Work experience for most will wind up at the end of Term 3 ready for a focused effort on external exams. There are some really satisfying outcomes again this year with career directions being confirmed and plans being made for next steps. Employment, apprenticeships/cadetships, tertiary study, returning to school to gain University Entrance and changing career direction for some, all are excellent outcomes. 

We invite you to check out our Facebook page Roncalli College Gatewayand Instagram roncalligateway for a glimpse at what some of our students have been doing this year and the variety of employers who support and contribute to the success of our programme.