The Gateway Work Experience Programme has once again given our students an awesome opportunity to get out into the real world, gain hands-on skills, and explore different career paths. It’s a great way to bridge the gap between school and work, giving students practical experience while earning NCEA credits.

A huge shout-out to Tracy, our Careers Support, who has worked so hard this term to make sure students could get out on placement. Your effort hasn’t gone unnoticed—we appreciate everything you do!

Of course, Gateway wouldn’t be possible without the support of local businesses and employers who take the time to mentor and guide our students. A massive thank you to:

• Alana Ross – Chroma Hair Design

• Neil Plaisted – Frews Transport

• Katy Payton – Annabel’s Educare

• Tig Dalley – Foothills Farming

• Gary Woolf – Bray St Engineering

• Ben Hayes – B & B Mechanical

• Amy Fisher – Ashley Industrial Services Ltd

• Macca McIntosh – Darfield Automotive

• Scott Mitchell – Mitchell Bros Sawmillers Darfield

• Preston Smith – Coalgate Motors

• Claire or Jane – Darfield Preschool

• Mel Thompson – Annabel’s West Melton

• Jarrod Owens – Onevision

• Dan Mullholland – LK Farms

• Hamish Anderson – AA Auto Centre

• Matt Hart – Pye Group

• Martin Douglas – Volks Power

• Harry – Challenge Darfield

• Dan and Grace Roughan – RHL

We couldn’t do it without you—your support means the world to our students!

Still Looking for More Employers

We are always looking for more employers to partner with us to support students on work experience. Right now, we have a number of students keen on pursuing careers in heavy diesel mechanics, electrical, and building. If you're in these industries and interested in hosting a student for work experience, please get in touch with the Careers Department.

Still Keen? We Have Spots for 2025!

We’ve still got a few funded places left in Gateway for 2025, so if you’re in Year 11–13 and want to:

✔ Earn 20 NCEA credits in employment skills and industry standards including Health & Safety and first aid courses
✔ Gain real-world work experience (minimum of five days)
✔ Have your own transport to get to and from your placement

Then get in touch with the Careers Department ASAP!

Contact Details

• Sarah Grenfell: sarah@darfield.school.nz

• Tracy Mangels: careers@darfield.school.nz

Once again, a huge thank you to Tracy and all our amazing local businesses for giving our students this opportunity.