Tis the season

Gateway and work experience students in Pathways and Rural Skills recently learned the meaning of saying, 'thank you', and the power of expressing gratitude to employers and others in writing for their time, support, advice and guidance. Students wrote letters and cards to those that supported them in their vocational learning journeys this year, which were added to gifts from the high school in recognition of the part our employers have had in our young peoples' lives. For some, their influence has made an incredible difference to their young person. 

Careers Administrator, Tracy Mangels, and I had the professional pleasure and privilege of traversing the Canterbury Plains from Springfield to McLean's Island Road to Windwhistle to the Waimakariri River, visiting and presenting our 30+ employers with their Thank You gifts, letters and cards at their workplaces. Employers were generally taken aback by the generosity and gratitude of their students, and expressed a keenness to further develop their relationship with Darfield High School in the Gateway/work experience space. Here's what some of our employers have said about our students:

Chrissie Fairbrass supported Lucas De Burger with his work experience at Libelle, Darfield. She was very happy with his skills development and gaining of confidence over the course of the year. Lucas will be studying hospitality at ARA Institute of Canterbury in 2023.

Kyle Challis, owner/operator of Challis Motorcycles Limited, Darfield, was absolutely taken aback by his gifts and couldn't wait to read his letter from his Gateway student, Angus Cleland. Kyle was very impressed with Angus's mechanical knowledge and skills during his time at the workshop.

Congratulations to Gateway student, Logan Barrett, on securing his apprenticeship at Power Farming, Rolleston, in heavy diesel engineering, which he will formally start in January 2023. His employer, Brad Fisher, has big plans for Logan and knows that he will succeed due to his outstanding attitude and ability to relate well to others.

Congratulations to Gateway student, Lucas Hickey, for an excellent start to his heavy diesel engineering apprenticeship at Drummond & Etheridge, Rolleston. His employer, Murray Chesterman, holds Lucas in high regard for his mechanical aptitude and willingness to always give his best in all tasks and duties.

Terry and the crew at Kiwi Concrete in Yaldhurst are very proud of how Gateway student, Manawai Ponga, has fitted into their operation through their guidance and support. Manawai has developed great working relationships and has quickly learned the business. He enjoys working with machinery, concreting products and heavy diesel vehicles.

Barbara Scales, co-owner/operator of South Island Peonies Limited, Sheffield/Springfield, raved about the high energy and enthusiasm of her rural skills work experience student, Rhyan Manson. She is pleased to learn that Rhyan is keen to be more involved in the cut flower business where he can put into practice his organisational skills, ability to get on with co-workers and understanding of the importance of product quality.

Henry Mcelrea (left) and Tom Mcelrea (right), owners of Washpen Falls, Windwhistle, were in awe of how Gateway student, Jasmine Gannon, made a part of their eco-tourism business her own. She transformed their track information office into a slick customer-focused operation. They are equally proud of how Jasmine has grown and gained confidence through her work with customers, becoming the 'face of the business' during her time with them.

Darfield High School wishes to extend its gratitude and appreciation to our Gateway/work experience employers for their time, commitment, dedication and life-changing experiences offered to our young people. We look forward to working with you all again in 2023. 

Ngaa mihi mahana koutou katoa. Warmest regards to you all.