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Photo by Brendan Biggs

CTC adventures

Megan, Marty and Brendan —

These are our 'Tradie Boys': two days a week on pre-trade courses at Polytechnic, then 3 days at school, team building & communication skills in term one. Last year 10 of our 19 young men straight to apprenticeships. Life is about experiences and chances to show you're bravely overcoming challenges, working in a team and being a supportive colleague. 

In February the CTC programme went surfing at Sumner beach, (perfect when it's 31 degrees! then fish & chips after). They tackled the exciting and beautiful Cave Stream. These are our 'Tradie Boys': two days a week on pre-trade courses at Polytechnic.

Term one, also, saw them on a camp that pushed their boundaries. They had high ropes, swings that really test one's character, jumping into the sea - coast-steering. A great way to bond as a group and for some, the first few nights away from home.

In July students took part in a barista course. They learned about the origins of coffee beans from around the world and made some café quality drinks.

Later in term three students learn how to flat, budget, use banking facilities and plan and prepare simple meals. Their CVs and resumes are developed and with health and safety qualifications onboard plus site safe and first aid certificates they are getting very "employable". 

Term four has many students trialing work experience and finding that the skills learnt over the year have them in very good positions to snag jobs that may be available.  From the start of the year our cautious students have become confident and ready employees.

Megan Heather, Marty Taylor and Brendan Biggs