Gateway to engineering in Whangarei
The Gateway programme is a key part of Whangarei’s innovative Apprenticeships Work partnership.
The recruitment outlook for Whangarei’s engineering sector is much stronger thanks to the partnership of key industry employers under the “Apprenticeships Work” banner, together with Whangarei Boys’ High School.
This approach is helping local companies like Culham Engineering identify the best young apprenticeship candidates while it’s assisting WBHS to equip a modern engineering workshop at the school. Local employers have already contributed $110,000 of workshop equipment.
WBHS Gateway co-ordinator Phiona Wilson says the school is anticipating another successful year with Gateway and Apprenticeships Work. Last year students spent 4372 hours in the workplace and were assessed against 1344 units.
Headmaster Al Kirk says the opportunities Apprenticeships Work offers the school, its senior students and employers have exceeded everyone’s expectations.
“Apprenticeships Work has allowed the school to offer meaningful career pathway options for students while also meeting the vocational standards local employers expect,” Mr Kirk says.
“Using Gateway, employers can evaluate boys’ potential as an apprentice, and students are having their curriculum activities assessed in a ‘real’ workplace.”
It’s helped young people like 16 year-old engineering Modern Apprentice Hereora Luke.
Since starting with Culham Engineering earlier this year, Hereora has gained confidence in his work skills and future.
“When I did my Gateway placement last year I asked to come back over the summer break. I soon decided this is where I wanted to be.
“Watching the more experienced apprentices’ progress motivates me to achieve the same.
“I’m really happy. I’m still learning and I get a bit of money each week to do so.”
Culham Engineering’s apprentice co-ordinator Fred Walker can’t speak highly enough of skill development in the workplace.
“This company has a long background with apprenticeships. Over its 45-year history about 500 apprentices have gained their qualification on these workshop floors,” Fred says.
“It’s good to see young boys interested in trades training and to see their skill level grow.
“The six weeks we have the students gives us time to get to know each boy and evaluate their potential as an apprentice.”
