Leaving School 20 by Oliver Lee Publications Ltd

A free guide to study and career options for high school students Years 11-13 MAY 2021 | ISSUE # 20

NAOMI CURRIE ELECTRICAL APPRENTICE – PAGE 10

KEAN McLEOD AUTOMOTIVE REFINISHER – PAGE 13

BOBBI-JO APIATA-HENRY FACTORY SUPERVISOR FISHING TRAWLER – PAGE 12

NZCareers Expo 2021

CHRISTCHURCH AUCKLAND DUNEDIN HAMILTON WELLINGTON

13–15 MAY 2021 20–22 MAY 2021 9 JUNE 2021 13–14 JUNE 2021 25–26 JUNE 2021

DAN SPEARING ST JOHN OPERATIONS MANAGER – PAGE 23

CAREERSEXPO.ORG.NZ

KIERAN McCAHON FARM SYSTEMS SPECIALIST – PAGE 19

HEATHER GEE-TAYLOR BEEF AND SHEEP FARMER – PAGE 20

BEN MASCARINA MAINTENANCE ENGINEER – PAGE 14

ALICE ORR CUSTOMER SERVICE EXECUTIVE – PAGE 24

LEAVINGSCHOOLNZ WWW.LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ

School’s out. Engineering’s in.

If you’re wondering what’s next after school, consider a career in engineering – there’s many different fields to suit your interests. With a New Zealand Diploma in Engineering (NZDE), you can get a qualification pathway that combines applied academic study with practical skills, and only takes two years to prepare you for employment in the engineering profession. Plus, it’s currently FEE FREE to study.

Entry criteria for the NZDE is minimum 12 credits at Level 2 in Mathematics (preferably achievement standards in Algebra, Calculus or Trigonometry). Foundation courses are available to help meet the entry criteria. The NZDE is closely aligned to the three-year BEngTech with a smooth pathway between the two.

Begin your step into engineering at nzbed.org.nz

CONTENTS

05 INTRODUCTION | LEAVING SCHOOL – ISSUE #20

Advice from six prominent New Zealanders from past issues of the magazine.

06 AGRICULTURE | HOLLY FLAY

Consider a career that is a combination of science and agriculture and useful for farmers everywhere.

10 ELECTRICIAN | NAOMI CURRIE

This bright spark is lighting the way ahead in a male-dominated industry.

Seeing outstanding scenery and making beautiful memories out on the sea.

12 FISHING | BOBBI-JO APIATA-HENRY

MANAGING EDITOR

Oliver Lee

SUB-EDITOR Elise McDowell CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Sara Carbery, Diana Clement, Peter White PHOTOGRAPHY Steve Bull, Frances Eade, Go With Tourism, iStock, Carissa Marsh, Kelk Photography, Peter McDermott, Paula McInnes, NZ Careers Expo, photosport.nz, Jack Rogers, Alan Stevens, Brennan Thomas, Logan West PAGINATION HNZL 2014 Limited PRINTER Ovato, Auckland PUBLISHER

13 AUTOMOTIVE REFINISHER | KEAN McLEOD

This apprentice automotive refinisher is good with his hands and primed to start his new career.

A change in focus from civil to electrical engineering has this cadet keen to inspire others to join the industry.

Following in family footsteps into a career in civil engineering has turned out well.

14 ELECTRICAL ENGINEER | BEN MASCARINA 15 CIVIL ENGINEER | NATALIE STORM 16 NOTICEBOARD

Here are the key dates, websites and events that are worth keeping track of.

18 DAIRY RESEARCH | GRACE GIBBERD

Working on a research farm is a neat merger of science and hands-on farm work and animals.

19 AGRICULTURE | KIERAN McCAHON

This country boy finds agriculture to be a fantastic mix of science and English.

20 BEEF AND SHEEP FARMER | HEATHER GEE-TAYLOR

Could you see yourself with rolling farmland as your office every day?

22 FARM STOCK MANAGER | ALEX DE’LAY

From hands-on farm experience at 14 to stock manager on the other side of the world.

23 PARAMEDIC | DAN SPEARING

With a desire to improve people’s well-being, this passionate go-getter is also committed to addressing health inequities across Aotearoa.

24 ADVENTURE TOURISM | ALICE ORR

Box 331-667, Takapuna, Auckland 0740 T: +64-9-486 6966 E: oliver@oliverlee.co.nz W: oliverlee.co.nz W: LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ ISSN 2463-3380 (Print) ISSN 2463-3399 (Online)

There is plenty to love in a sector that wants you to be yourself, trains you on-the-job and is full of thrills.

25 NZ CAREERS EXPO

There is a new string to the bow of NZ Careers Expo and it will help you with the decisions you need to make about career, study and training options.

26 BUDGETING TIPS

Get to grips with using apps to sort out your budget.

COPYRIGHT: Reproduction in whole or in part by any means is prohibited. DISCLAIMER: The opinions expressed in this magazine do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. Although all material is checked for accuracy, no liability is assumed by the publisher for any loss due to use of material in this magazine.

28 UNIVERSITY TRANSITION

Transitioning from school to university is unlikely to be simple, so get to know where you can seek help.

29 PLUMBING AND GASFITTING | VALENTINO EYER

With immense variety in this hands-on role, no two days will ever be the same.

30 JOBS IN FOCUS | PRIMARY INDUSTRIES

A look at nine jobs from the primary industries, you might just find your future career here.

S T U DY A R T, D E S I G N + DIGITAL MEDIA AT WHITECLIFFE Interested in studying art, design, or digital media? Our Level 4 Certificate in Arts and Design and Certificate in Digital Media and Design are 18-week programmes designed to equip you with core skills and a portfolio for ongoing tertiary study at Whitecliffe. Join us at our open day on Saturday 26 June 2021 and make an informed decision on your study options.

Enrol now for our July 2021 intake whitecliffe.ac.nz • 0800 800 300 Art • Design • Fashion • Tech

AVAILABLE FREE ONLINE www.leavingschool.co.nz

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WE PUBLISHED THE FIRST ISSUE OF THE LEAVING SCHOOL MAGAZINE IN JULY 2013 AND SINCE THEN THE MAGAZINE HAS GONE FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH.

I would like to thank all our advertisers who have supported the magazine over the last eight years. They make it possible for us to distribute the magazines FREE to every senior high-school student in the country. Special thanks to all the careers advisors and teachers who distribute and promote the magazines to their students. I look forward to continuing to publish inspiring profiles and high-quality career and study information to help students everywhere plan for their future. To celebrate this milestone issue, we thought we’d highlight some gems of wisdom shared by prominent New Zealanders in past issues. OLIVER LEE – Publisher PROFESSOR HARLENE HAYNE Former Vice Chancellor, The University of Otago Leaving School #4 Never stop learning – whether you find yourself in work, at polytech, or at university, continue to challenge your mind with new knowledge and new skills. Be the best person you can be. Look after those around you. Find ways to support your friends, your family, and your community. And finally, discover joy in everything you do. On your road to success, pursue the things that make you truly happy. When you do, I promise that success will follow.

NIGEL LATTA Clinical Psychologist Leaving School #10 The advice I think is most important – and the thing I have said to my own kids – is do something awesome with your life, whatever that might mean for you. We only get one go at being human, so make yours count. Spend your life doing something that makes you excited, that fills you up and that adds to the lives of the people around you. Don’t worry if you don’t have any idea what that is yet; I didn’t when I was your age. It takes a while to figure all that out. But you will. All you have to do is be curious and open, and sooner or later you’ll find your thing.

RT HON JACINDA ARDERN, Prime Minister of New Zealand Leaving School #12 I really believe people should study what they love. If you do that the passion shines through. There’s always been a tendency to think that studying a particular subject will lead us down a prescribed path; medicine equals doctor or nurse; commerce or law gives us accountants and lawyers but that’s definitely changing. Then, of course, there’s the fact that 46 per cent of jobs we do now won’t be around in another 15 or 20 years. MIKE KING Mental Health Advocate Leaving School #15 My advice for school leavers out there is pretty straight forward – just be you. Live your dreams, believe in yourself and take a positive attitude into the work force with you. Show future employers that you can be the benchmark for the company you work for. Be the very best you can be.

Leaving School magazine – issue #1

SAM CANE, All Blacks Captain Leaving School #19 There is always pressure put on you at school to decide on a career or a pathway that you want to go down. My advice would be don’t feel pressured to commit too early but do be really open to all opportunities. Ultimately no matter what qualification you end up with, whether a trade or a degree, what’s more important is the type of person you are and how you treat people.

SOPHIE PASCOE Paralympian Leaving School #16 People often ask me what my greatest achievement is. It’s not the fact I’ve won medals or broken world records, it’s that I’ve made a positive out of what most people would consider a negative. I haven’t let my disability define me, and I’ve made the people around me proud. I’m incredibly proud of what I have achieved and proud of the fact I’m committed to creating a legacy that isn’t just for me.

LEAVING SCHOOL ISSUE #20

| LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ

INTRODUCTION

WELCOME TO ISSUE #20 OF LEAVING SCHOOL MAGAZINE

AGRICULTURE

THE SCIENCE OF FARMING

writer SARA CARBERY // photographer ALAN STEVENS

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT I GET TO BE INVOLVED IN SOME OF THE BIGGER-picture SCIENCE AS WELL AS THE NITTY GRITTY SAMPLES.

HOLLY FLAY

Good science is so important for farmers, says 25-year-old HOLLY FLAY. “It helps them build their businesses and support their animals, the environment and people for generations to come.” Holly works as a research associate with DairyNZ, a wide-ranging role that sees her planning research, carrying out trials on farms, analysing data and samples, and presenting results to peers, scientists and farmers. “I really enjoy the variation in the role,” she says. “No two days are the same and I get to be involved in some of the bigger-picture science as well as the nitty gritty samples. “There’s some desk-based work and some practical, and I get to spend time outside and with the animals.” Holly grew up on a dairy farm in Te Awamutu so she knows first-hand what being a farmer is all about. “Agriculture is such a critical part of New Zealand,” she says, “and farmers are expected to do so much.

They are part-time vets, animal managers, agronomists, pasture managers, people managers, accountants, financial planners, machine operators, mechanics, builders, welders, health and safety officers … and the list goes on!” Running parallel to her lifelong interest in farming is a lifelong interest in science. “I like asking why, and I like things that make sense.” Holly took Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Statistics and Calculus in Year 13 at Te Awamutu College before heading to Massey University where she combined her two passions to study a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry “with a side of agriculture”. “Although the degree I studied was not entirely agricultural, I took a lot of the agriculture/animal papers to keep the interest in agriculture/dairy industry alive.” Following a summer internship with DairyNZ, Holly applied for a DairyNZ master’s scholarship and completed her Master of Science on methane emissions in dairy heifers.

If you’re wondering what to do when you leave school, Holly’s advice is to choose something you are interested in and can see yourself doing in the future – even if it’s just at an industry level and not a specific job. “You don’t have to know exactly which job you might want to do, but if you can narrow it down to the type of work, or the industry, then that helps a lot. The specific job is less important and you can work that out as you go. “Although my degree wasn’t a specific agriculture degree, it has not held me back in getting into the career I have chosen to follow – it is still science and agriculture. “You don’t have to have it all planned out right now.” Holly plans to continue working in research and development, finding opportunities to follow her passion and develop her knowledge, in order to help farmers and optimise resilience in the dairy sector.

KEY FACTS ■ HOLLY FLAY HAS A BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN CHEMISTRY “WITH A SIDE OF AGRICULTURE” FROM MASSEY UNIVERSITY. SHE ALSO HAS A MASTER OF SCIENCE, WHICH SHE COMPLETED WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF DAIRYNZ’S MASTER’S SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMME. ■ SHE WORKS AS A RESEARCH ASSOCIATE FOR DAIRYNZ AND WHILE AT UNIVERSITY, SHE COMPLETED A SUMMER INTERNSHIP WITH DAIRYNZ.

LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ

| LEAVING SCHOOL ISSUE #20

For more information on career options within the dairy sector, visit www.godairy.co.nz and www.dairynz.co.nz/people/ dairy-careers

HOME DAIRY FARMING

AGRI-BUSINESS

AGRI-SCIENCE

QUIZ

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It’s a career and a lifestyle As one of New Zealand’s largest employers, the dairy sector needs motivated and passionate people to make a difference in the world. Discover your future in dairy and learn about the range of career options that dairy has to offer.

Discover your fit Take the quiz to find out what your next step could be towards a brighter future.

Godairy.co.nz

Dairy farming

Agri-business

Agri-science

A dairy farming career is everything from caring for animals to learning new skills, enhancing the environment, and earning good money.

Agri-business professionals provide a range of skilled, professional services to farmers and farm businesses.

Agri-scientists are creative problem solvers provide solutions in areas including genetics, sustainability, animal welfare and care; the environment and farming systems.

Godairy.co.nz

Come along to an Engineering Info Evening in May 2021 to discover the possibilities that come with studying engineering at the University of Auckland. Cara Berghan Graduate, BE(Hons) in Electrical and Electronic Engineering; Systems Engineer, WSP “It wasn’t until I was halfway through my final year of high school when some student advisers introduced me to Engineering, which is crazy to think about now. I now work at WSP Opus as a Systems Engineer, as part of an alliance for the City Rail Link project. When I landed this role, I used Systems Week in my fourth year as an example of when I worked with large groups of people from different backgrounds, different perspectives, who have different understandings of the brief. Your idea of what you’ve been sent in there to learn is completely different to what you end up learning.”

Nicholas Kondal Student, BE(Hons) in Biomedical Engineering “I’ve been a STEM fanatic my entire life, so my mind and heart were set on Biomedical Engineering even before I set foot on campus. So far, it’s allowed me to take courses from various disciplines, from neurobiology and programming to materials chemistry and computer graphics. I thought Biomedical Engineering was going to lead me into building medical devices or prosthetics but it’s a lot more than that. I get to integrate seemingly unrelated concepts in new and exciting ways.”

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ENGINEERING

APPRENTICE ELECTRICIAN 10

WIRED UP FOR SUCCESS

writer PETER WHITE photographer LOGAN WEST

ETCO APPRENTICE HAS BRIGHT FUTURE NAOMI CURRIE loves working in the traditionally male-dominated electrical industry. The 26-year-old was a late arrival on the trades career path. At Papatoetoe High School, Naomi took English, Music, Electronics, Automotive and Tourism in Year 13 before completing a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Creative Writing. “I was trying to find a good career to set me up for life with an actual skill. After doing the degree, it was still left in the air and I was wondering how I was going to make it work. “I took a gap year after university and then revisited what I enjoyed at high school, which was the electronics side. A relative of mine is an electrician so I thought maybe I should give it a go and that’s how I veered off in that direction.” Naomi works for Nexus Electrical Ltd based in Mount Roskill, Auckland. She organised her apprenticeship through Etco (The Electrical Training Company), New Zealand’s largest employer of electrical apprentices. She is six months away from qualifying. “Etco are very good to deal with. If you have any issues with your company, you have someone looking after you. The first kit of tools that you get through Etco are all free of charge.” The technical side of the job is what Naomi loves most about working as an electrician. “A lot of what you do as an apprentice can be labour-heavy like running cables, but you do get to learn the technical side and it is a lot more interesting and a lot more fun.” Every industry has its challenges but Naomi has not discovered too many in the electrical trade. “There was a big learning curve when I first started because it was completely different from what I have learnt previously through school and university. “For me it was learning how to use the tools and learning the processes of the trades.”

MY ADVICE IS IF YOU’RE ABSOLUTELY SURE YOU WANT TO GO INTO A TRADE THEN START it as it as soon as you can. YOU WILL DEFINITELY COME OUT BETTER FOR it. NAOMI CURRIE

There are more female electricians now than ever before but it is still a heavily male-dominated industry. Naomi has not encountered any gender barriers since she started three years ago. She says the men she works with have been very helpful and they all just get on with the job. “People do learn your name a lot faster though,” she says.

Naomi’s advice to females considering taking up an apprenticeship is to do it as soon as you are ready. “In terms of careers it is always better to start straight away if you can. It may sound a little against what teachers say about needing to finish high school but after going through what I have, my advice is if you’re absolutely sure you want to go into a trade then start it as soon as you can. “You will definitely come out better for it.”

KEY FACTS ■ NAOMI CURRIE IS SIX MONTHS AWAY FROM COMPLETING HER ELECTRICAL APPRENTICESHIP, WHICH HAS BEEN ORGANISED THROUGH ETCO, NEW ZEALAND’S LARGEST EMPLOYER OF ELECTRICAL APPRENTICES. ■ SHE WORKS AT ETCO’s HOST NEXUS ELECTRICAL LTD BASED IN MOUNT ROSKILL, AUCKLAND. ■ NAOMI REALLY ENJOYS THE TECHNICAL SIDE OF BEING AN ELECTRICIAN AND FINDS IT VERY INTERESTING. LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ

| LEAVING SCHOOL ISSUE #20

For more information on training and apprenticeships through Etco, visit www.etco.co.nz

Thinking Of An Electrical Trade? Do an electrical apprenticeship with etco. ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING NZ LEVEL 4 NCEA LEVEL 2 (8 CREDITS OR MORE IN ENGLISH, MATHS AND SCIENCE)

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FISHING INDUSTRY

ENVIRONMENT AND LIFESTYLE WINNER

SPECTACULAR SIGHTS AT SEA writer SARA CARBERY // photographer CARISSA MARSH

A few things BOBBI-JO APIATA-HENRY (25) loves about working as a factory supervisor on Sealord’s fishing trawler Ocean Dawn are the travel opportunities, the people she works with and the job itself. “The work is hard but at the end of a good shift it makes you feel like the effort you put in was worth the sleep. Plus, it’s fun. You make it fun, build good relationships with your crew so you just bounce off each other.” The lifestyle the job offers is another plus. The crew works in four-to-six-week rotations, which means Bobbi has lots of time off between sailings to spend with her partner and dogs in Northland. “We basically only work six months of the year.” In her role as factory supervisor, Bobbi manages the onboard factory where fish are filleted, packed and frozen. Most of her job is about managing people, machinery and time to ensure the factory keeps up with the number of fish being caught. After leaving Okaihau College in Northland, and helping to care for her grandmother, Bobbi enrolled on a free six-week Limited Service Volunteer course, which helps young people increase their confidence, earn NZQA credits and learn new skills. While there she enrolled at Westport Deepsea Fishing School and spent nine weeks there before stepping onboard Ocean Dawn for her first trip, six years ago. “It felt good,” she remembers. “I wasn’t getting paid much but it was my first-ever job, so I felt rich after that trip. What made me want to stay mostly though was the family environment and lifestyle.”

Bobbi doesn’t have fond memories of school and admits her attendance was sporadic in the last two years. “I didn’t feel like I was absorbing the information as fast as others, so there was that shame of being the ‘slower’ or ‘dumb’ student.” Bobbi says that what's great about the fishing industry is you can learn on-the-job. “The only things you really need are good personal drive, physical endurance and an awesome attitude.” Her employer Sealord says that other helpful attributes are resilience, good teamwork skills, respect for others and the environment, a safety focus and the ability to follow instructions and rules. Bobbi’s advice to anyone who is struggling with school is to not worry. “Don’t get stuck in the lifestyle that some of your family and friends have made for themselves because you have plenty of options out there. Fishing gives you on-site training. All you need to do is apply, pass a medical and turn up to the boat. It’s pretty simple.” She says fishing has given her courage and confidence, a good work–life balance, great opportunities and spectacular sights – such as the Southern Alps covered in snow, beautiful sunrises and sunsets, and sightings of dolphins, whales and seals. “Beautiful memories that I can guarantee I wouldn’t have made if it wasn’t for my job.”

Ocean Dawn trawler (photo supplied). KEY FACTS ■ BOBBI-JO APIATA-HENRY WORKS AS A FACTORY SUPERVISOR ON SEALORD GROUP LTD’S FISHING TRAWLER OCEAN DAWN. ■ AFTER LEAVING HIGH SCHOOL, BOBBI COMPLETED THE SIX-WEEK LIMITED SERVICE VOLUNTEER COURSE AND THEN ENROLLED AT WESTPORT DEEPSEA FISHING SCHOOL. ■ BOBBI SAYS THAT A DRAWCARD OF THE FISHING INDUSTRY IS THAT MOST OF THE TRAINING IS DONE ON-THE-JOB. LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ

| LEAVING SCHOOL ISSUE #20

For more information on career opportunities in the fishing industry, visit www.sealord.com/nz/careers www.seafood.co.nz/careers and www.deepsea.co.nz

GET YOURSELF PRIMED

writer PETER WHITE photographer BRENNAN THOMAS

AUTOMOTIVE REFINISHER

EARN WHILE YOU LEARN

IT IS ALSO IMPORTANT TO keep AN OPEN MIND AND TRY things YOU THOUGHT YOU WOULD NEVER TRY BEFORE. GETTING A TRADE BEHIND YOU, WHATEVER IT IS, IS JUST HELPFUL.

KEAN McLEOD

You just never know when an opportunity for a future career may come your way. Just ask 18-year-old apprentice automotive refinisher KEAN McLEOD. During his Year 13 at Gisborne Boys’ High School, Kean went to a Got a Trade? Got it Made! SpeedMeet organised by MITO. Students get to talk with employers, speed-dating style, and it was where Kean met Barry Brown from Gisborne Motors. Two months later Kean started working there. “It definitely works. It was a good chance to meet some different employers and get to know them. They tell you stuff about what they do and you can see if you are interested or not,” he says. “When I met Barry, I was a bit more interested in refinishing so it was really good that we both wanted to meet up again after the SpeedMeet. It all kind of started from there.” He is doing his New Zealand Certificate in Automotive Refinishing (Level 3 and 4) apprenticeship through MITO.

“MITO make it easy. They come and visit me every few months and make sure I am keeping up-to-date. They help me out if I am struggling with anything.” Kean loves his work restoring car panels to pristine condition. It gives him loads of satisfaction. “What I do is stripping down panels, cleaning, priming and respraying them, which involves a lot of detail and preparation work. It’s good to see all the work and detail you put into it ends up coming out in a good-looking paint job.” In Year 13, Kean took Design and Visual Communication (DVC), Classical Studies, Maths and Science plus a weekly community course in Computer Studies. He admits he had no idea exactly what he was going to do during his last year at school but knew it would be a trade. The future looks good for Kean. He is getting a trade qualification behind him that will be in demand – people always want their cars looking new again. “I am not 100 per cent sure right now but if I continue doing this after my apprenticeship, I might do my own thing and start up something in refinishing.”

Kean encourages school leavers who like using their hands to get into a trade apprenticeship like he did. “Definitely a key thing to doing well is to have the right attitude and be on to it when it comes to putting in all the detail in every job. “I guess it is also important to keep an open mind and try things you thought you would never try before. Getting a trade behind you, whatever it is, is just helpful. “Do an apprenticeship, become qualified and even if you move on and do something else or go travelling, you always have that trade behind you.” SpeedMeet events will take place again later this year in August and September throughout New Zealand. MITO also offers a secondary school micro-credential in collision repair and refinishing to try before an apprenticeship, visit www.mito.nz/startup to find out more.

KEY FACTS ■ KEAN McLEOD IS DOING A NEW ZEALAND CERTIFICATE IN AUTOMOTIVE REFINISHING (LEVEL 3 AND 4) AND APPRENTICESHIP THROUGH MITO. ■ HE ATTENDED A GOT A TRADE? GOT IT MADE! SPEEDMEET ORGANISED BY MITO, WHICH HE FOUND TO BE A GOOD EXPERIENCE. ■ KEAN RECOMMENDS THOSE WHO LIKE USING THEIR HANDS TO GET INTO A TRADE APPRENTICESHIP.

LEAVING SCHOOL ISSUE #20

For more information on studying collision repair and refinishing through MITO, visit www.mito.org.nz/get-qualified/ apprenticeships-and-training

| LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ

ENGINEERING

CADETSHIP IN ENGINEERING 14

GET TO GRIPS WITH ELECTRICITY writer PETER WHITE photographer LOGAN WEST BEN MASCARINA has always wanted to be an engineer but in his last year of school the focus of his engineering speciality shifted. “Ever since I was young I wanted to get into civil engineering but I ended up getting into electrical. I am happy now that I am working in the electricity industry as a career,” he says. Ben enrolled in the New Zealand Diploma in Engineering (NZDE) at Manukau Institute of Technology in 2020 as part of an engineering cadetship with Northpower. He has quickly moved up the ranks to be a fulltime maintenance engineer with the company while studying. “An opportunity came up, which was the cadetship sponsored by Northpower. The programme involves studying the Diploma in Engineering and also attending placements within the company,” says Ben. Electrical engineers work in telecommunications, power, semiconductors, manufacturing, transportation and other related areas. “I realise that most young people do not know much about electricity other than it powers everything up. I think this industry is actually lacking a lot of young people and it needs to be recognised more among school leavers. “[The electricity industry] is very important but it is actually a lot of fun learning about electricity, how it works and is regulated, and much more.” Working fulltime for Northpower while completing his diploma means

Ben has a full schedule but he is enjoying the challenge and the stimulus from learning every day on-the-job. “What I like most is learning [about] the different equipment I use in the field, plus the variety of the placements and the importance of key aspects – like to never compromise safety.” Ben attended Auckland’s Pakuranga College where he studied Chemistry, Biology, Calculus, Physics and Geography in Year 13. He encourages school leavers to consider all the engineering career options but particularly his field of electrical engineering. Apart from the technical attributes to be learnt through studying and working in the industry, he says there are other broader skills that make a big difference. “It is not just about knowledge – that is the key piece of advice I would give to the younger me at school. “The focus is always on the technical stuff for students but if you are a person that wants to do engineering then the communication part is also important to learn. “People think it is always about what you know but a lot of engineering is also about being able to communicate with other people and how to deal with situations. “For young people new to the industry it is about being open to listening to the advice that older people give you. If you know someone who works as an engineer, then talk to them.”

PEOPLE THINK it IS ALWAYS ABOUT WHAT YOU KNOW BUT A LOT OF Engineering is also about BEING ABLE TO COMMUNICATE WITH OTHER PEOPLE AND HOW TO DEAL WITH SITUATIONS. BEN MASCARINA

KEY FACTS ■ BEN MASCARINA IS STUDYING TOWARDS HIS NEW ZEALAND DIPLOMA IN ENGINEERING THROUGH MANUKAU INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY AS PART OF HIS ENGINEERING CADETSHIP WITH NORTHPOWER. ■ AS WELL AS STUDYING, HE WORKS AT NORTHPOWER AS A MAINTENANCE ENGINEER. ■ BEN STUDIED CHEMISTRY, BIOLOGY, CALCULUS, PHYSICS AND GEOGRAPHY IN YEAR 13 AT PAKURANGA COLLEGE.

LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ

| LEAVING SCHOOL ISSUE #20

For more information on studying engineering, visit www.nzbed.org.nz and for information on studying engineering at the Manukau Institute of Technology, visit www.manukau.ac.nz

CIVIL ENGINEERING

writer SARA CARBERY photograph KELK PHOTOGRAPHY, DUNEDIN

When NATALIE STORM (23) was growing up, her engineer dad would tell her she’d make a good engineer, but she had her heart set on nursing and didn’t take any notice. However, Natalie’s interest in engineering was sparked while she was at Otago Polytechnic on a pre-nursing course. “It wasn’t until I found that nursing wasn’t for me that I took a look into what engineering actually entailed,” she explains. Civil engineering – the design, construction, management and maintenance of civil works such as roads, dams, earthquake engineering, water and sewerage systems – caught her eye and she decided to give it a go. After completing a six-month Certificate in Study and Career Preparation that gave her a good grounding in maths, physics and academic writing, Natalie enrolled in the New Zealand Diploma in Engineering (Civil Engineering) at Otago Polytechnic and hasn’t looked back. “The diploma course was awesome!” she says. “I can’t recommend it enough. “The Otago Polytech lecturers are so helpful and great to work with. The whole course was heaps of fun and super practical.” Before she had finished her course, Natalie was offered a job at Beca on their two-year graduate development programme. She started at Beca’s Dunedin office in February. As one of Asia Pacific's largest engineering consultancies, Beca is a great place to learn on-the-job, Natalie says. “My job involves lots of learning, consultations with clients, health and safety checks, road trips and travel around the country, planning meetings, training, monitoring work on sites, and more learning!” Natalie grew up in Dunedin and attended St Hilda’s Collegiate School where she took Biology, Statistics, Media Studies, Art History and English in her final year.

CIVIL ENGINEERING

FOLLOWING IN THE FAMILY FOOTSTEPS

In hindsight she wishes she had continued with NCEA Physics, but it was a subject she didn’t enjoy at school. “Once I got to polytech, it was one of my favourite subjects,” she laughs. “I guess I just needed to be doing something where it was applicable. Learning is easy when you love what you’re learning but if you don’t, it can be really hard.” Natalie would like to study for a Bachelor of Engineering one day but for the moment she is very happy where she is.

KEY FACTS ■ NATALIE STORM HAS A NEW ZEALAND DIPLOMA IN ENGINEERING (CIVIL ENGINEERING) FROM OTAGO POLYTECHNIC. SHE ALSO HAS A CERTIFICATE IN STUDY AND CAREER PREPARATION. ■ WHILE STUDYING, SHE WAS OFFERED A JOB AT ENGINEERING CONSULTANCY FIRM, BECA, ON THEIR TWO-YEAR GRADUATE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME. ■ NATALIE STUDIED BIOLOGY, STATISTICS, MEDIA STUDIES, ART HISTORY AND ENGLISH IN YEAR 12 AT ST HILDA’S COLLEGIATE SCHOOL.

“There are so many opportunities within Beca and the possibility to work all around the country and in the Pacific,” she says. “My diploma is recognised in countries all over the world, which means I have the opportunity to work in other countries as well. If I ever had the chance, I would love to work overseas.” If, like Natalie, you start down a career path and decide it’s not for you, her advice is don’t feel you have to stick with it. “There is so much pressure on school leavers and I think it’s important to know that if you aren’t loving what you’re doing, it’s okay to change.” For information on the New Zealand Diploma in Engineering (NZDE), visit www.nzbed.org.nz and for information on studying Engineering at Otago Polytechnic, visit www.op.ac.nz/study/engineering For information about Beca’s graduate programme, visit www.beca.com/join-our-team/be-a-becagrad-or-summer-intern

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IMPORTANT NOTICES 16

NOTICE BOARD

Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.

KEEPING TRACK OF WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Nelson Mandela

JOB HUNTING These websites will help you find a job! Allied Work Force – www.awf.co.nz Trade Me Jobs – www.trademe.co.nz/jobs MyJobSpace – www.myjobspace.co.nz Student Job Search – www.sjs.co.nz Do Good Jobs – www.dogoodjobs.co.nz Work and Income – www.job-bank.workandincome.govt.nz Seek – www.seek.co.nz

CAREERS UNIVERSITY/POLYTECHNIC OPEN DAYS 2021 and Polytechnic open days are a fantastic way of getting to know more NEW ZEALAND University about your proposed courses of study, the provider itself, meet fellow students

A fantastic resource providing expert advice and confidential, free information on all things education and employment – including choosing school subjects, enrolling in study or training and applying for jobs. Call their free advice line on 0800 222 733, free text CAREER to 434 or chat online by visiting their website at www.careers.govt.nz

We are made wise not by the recollection of our past, but the responsibility for our future. George Bernard Shaw

and become familiar with the campus. Coming open days are: Tertiary provider

Date

Website

UNIVERSITY OF WAIKATO Hamilton Campus Fri 21 May

www.waikato.ac.nz

Sun 23 and Mon 24 May Sun 23 and Mon 24 May

www.otago.ac.nz www.op.ac.nz

SIT Invercargill Campus

Tue 25 May

www.sit.ac.nz

UNIVERSITY OF WAIKATO Tauranga Campus MASSEY UNIVERSITY Manawatu Campus VICTORIA UNIVERSITY MASSEY UNIVERSITY Wellington Campus MASSEY UNIVERSITY Auckland Campus

Fri 28 May Wed 4 Aug Fri 20 Aug Fri 20 Aug Sat 21 Aug

www.waikato.ac.nz www.massey.ac.nz www.victoria.ac.nz www.massey.ac.nz www.massey.ac.nz

UNIVERSITY OF AUCKLAND

Sat 28 Aug

www.auckland.ac.nz

AUCKLAND UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY

Sat 28 Aug

www.aut.ac.nz

UNITEC UNIVERSITY OF CANTERBURY

Sat 4 Sept www.unitec.ac.nz Thu 9 Sept www.canterbury.ac.nz

UNIVERSITY OF OTAGO OTAGO POLYTECHNIC

* Accurate at time of print. Please check providers’ websites for any changes.

SCHOLARSHIPS FEELING DOWN? There is a free-to-use comprehensive list of Year 13 scholarships available to 2021 school leavers at MoneyHub. Millions of dollars are available and applications close throughout the year. Talk to your careers advisor or visit REID WILSON BOATBUILDER www.moneyhub.co.nz/students SEE PAGE 14 LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ

Leaving school is one of the most major transitions we undertake in our lives, and it’s a time when anxiety, worry and depression can surface. www.thelowdown.co.nz is full of ideas and people who can help you get unstuck and get to a better place. Need to talk? Free text to 5626

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Let us always meet each other with a smile, for the smile is the beginning of love. Mother Theresa

Term 2 holiday: 10 July–25 July 2021 Term 3 holiday: 2–17 October 2021 Term 4 holiday: No later than 20 December through to no earlier than 31 January 2022

Persistence can change failure into extraordinary achievement. Matt Biondi

Information sourced from Ministry of Education, visit www.education.govt.nz

MAKE YOUR VOTE COUNT It’s always important to make sure that you are on the electoral roll and ready to take part in national and local elections. How else can you be sure that you are ready to have your say on the big issues affecting you and your family? www.elections.org.nz/voters

IF YOU ARE STRUGGLING There is always light, if only we’re brave enough to see it. If only we’re brave enough to be it. Amanda Gorman

LIFELINE available 24/7 0800 543 354 www.lifeline.org.nz YOUTHLINE available 24/7 0800 376 633 or free text 234 www.youthline.co.nz WHAT’S UP Mon–Fri noon–11pm & Sat/Sun 3pm–11pm 0800 942 8787 www.whatsup.co.nz ALCOHOL DRUG HELPLINE 0800 787 797 available 24/7 www.alcoholdrughelp.org.nz

These magazines and past issues can be read online at www.leavingschool.co.nz

NZ CAREERS EXPO 2021 VOLUNTEERING

CHRISTCHURCH Christchurch Arena AUCKLAND ASB Showgrounds DUNEDIN Dunedin Town Hall HAMILTON Claudelands Event Centre WELLINGTON TSB Arena, Queens Wharf

13–15 MAY 2021 20–22 MAY 2021 9 JUN 2021 13–14 JUN 2021 25–26 JUN 2021

Admission to the Expo is free for all visitors. Visit their website www.careersexpo.org.nz

Volunteering can provide you with opportunities to develop your skills in new and interesting ways as well as providing valuable real-world experiences – all important attributes to your CV when applying for your first job! For more information, visit: www.volunteeringnz.org.nz/ volunteers/finding-volunteer-roles/

Hardships often prepare ordinary people for an extraordinary destiny. C.S. Lewis

STUDENT ALLOWANCE EXAM DATES 2021 AND LOANS If you are about to leave school and you’re looking at tertiary study, there’s going to be a lot to think about. If it’s anything to do with financial support while you’re studying, StudyLink can help and you need to apply by 16 December 2021. Sign up for info at www.studylink.govt.nz

NCEA Examinations Monday 8 November – Thursday 2 December Cambridge Examinations June session Tuesday 27 April – Saturday 12 June November session Friday 1 October – Thursday 18 November

IMPORTANT NOTICES

SECONDARY SCHOOL HOLIDAYS 2021

Visit www.keytolife.org.nz

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AGRICULTURE

AT THE FOREFRONT OF PROGRESS

writer SARA CARBERY photographer ALAN STEVENS

PASSIONATE ABOUT FARMING “Just because you weren’t brought up on a farm doesn’t mean that you can’t go farming!” says 22-year-old GRACE GIBBERD. Although she grew up in Hamilton, spending time on relatives’ farms as a child sparked an interest in farming and led Grace into a career she loves. “Being a farmer means you are an agronomist, vet, mechanic, animal nutritionist, machine operator, and soil scientist. It also means early starts and long hours during busy times of the year, but you can’t beat working outdoors.” After leaving Hamilton Christian School (where she studied English, Statistics, Biology, Chemistry, and Agricultural and Horticultural Science in Year 13), Grace went to Massey University to study a Bachelor of Science with a major in Agricultural Science and a minor in Animal Science. “Uni was a great learning experience,” she says. “I enjoyed being able to study a topic that I was really interested in and passionate about. It was also

exciting – although a bit daunting at the time – leaving home and becoming more independent.” As well as helping her financially, a DairyNZ scholarship paired Grace with a mentor during her time at university and introduced her to people who shared their insights and knowledge of the industry. Since graduating two years ago, Grace has been working at DairyNZ’s Scott Farm in Waikato in a role that combines her love of science with her love of hands-on farm work and animals. Scott Farm is a research farm, so Grace is involved in research work, like sample taking, data recording and animal observation, as well as farm duties such as stockwork, milking and feeding out. “I enjoy working as part of a big team and being at the forefront of current research projects that are being conducted in the industry. It’s super interesting!” Grace says studying an agricultural degree provided her with a strong foundation of knowledge that she uses every day.

“It has allowed me to gain a greater understanding of the reasons behind tactical management decisions made and given me the skills to be able to contribute to these discussions.” At last year’s Dairy Industry Awards, she was named Dairy Trainee of the Year, beating nine other finalists from around the country. “It was really exciting to be recognised in my field and get involved with the wider industry.” If you’re interested in a career in dairying, Grace’s advice is to not let your background dictate what career paths you think you can and can’t do. “There are plenty of options for study and learning if you want to get into dairying, whether that’s an agricultural degree at university or on-the-job training through Primary ITO courses.” As one of New Zealand’s largest employers, the dairy sector needs motivated and passionate people to work as dairy farmers, agri-business professionals and agri-scientists.

I ENJOY WORKING AS PART OF A BIG TEAM AND BEING at the forefront OF current research PROJECTS THAT ARE BEING CONDUCTED IN the industry. GRACE GIBBERD

KEY FACTS ■ GRACE GIBBERD HAS A BACHELOR OF SCIENCE WITH A MAJOR IN AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE AND A MINOR IN ANIMAL SCIENCE FROM MASSEY UNIVERSITY. SHE WAS AWARDED A DAIRYNZ SCHOLARSHIP. ■ SHE WORKS ON ONE OF DAIRYNZ’S RESEARCH FARMS – SCOTT FARM IN THE WAIKATO. LAST YEAR, SHE WAS NAMED DAIRY TRAINEE OF THE YEAR AT THE DAIRY INDUSTRY AWARDS.

LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ

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For more information on career options within the dairy sector, visit www.godairy.co.nz and www.dairynz.co.nz/people/ dairy-careers

ASK ABOUT AGRICULTURE

writer

PETER WHITE

photographer

PAULA McINNES

I HELP DEVELOP tools and resources FOR FARMERS AND CONSULTING OFFICERS ACROSS AREAS FROM pasture MANAGEMENT TO ENVIRONMENTAL BENCHMARKING.

AGRICULTURE

MAKE AN IMPACT WHERE IT COUNTS

KIERAN McCAHON

The chance to make a difference to an important part of New Zealand’s economy was what motivated KIERAN McCAHON to get into agriculture. “What attracted me to agriculture was the ability to make a real wide-ranging impact. It is one of our biggest sectors, but it is also extremely interconnected,” he says. The 24-year-old has a Bachelor of Agriculture Science from Massey University and a Master of Management, majoring in Agribusiness, from the University of Waikato. Kieran is grateful to have been awarded two scholarships from DairyNZ, which were instrumental in getting him through his university years. “It takes the financial stress off your shoulders, meaning you can focus more on your studies. The mentoring side of things was huge as well – being able to tap on people’s shoulders and ask questions of experts across DairyNZ was invaluable.” Now, Kieran works for DairyNZ as a solutions and

development specialist in farm systems, which he says sits between research and extension (advisory services). “I help develop tools and resources for farmers and consulting officers across areas from pasture management to environmental benchmarking.” Kieran attended Dargaville High School in Years 9 and 10 then spent his final three years at Westlake Boys' High School. In Year 13 he took Cambridge exams in Maths, English, Physics and Chemistry. Initially, it was civil engineering he was headed towards until an open day at Auckland University changed his projected career path. “It all became very real to me. As a country boy, I was wondering whether I wanted to spend four years studying in a city [and] to end up with a job in a city – so I decided to see what else was out there.” Kieran rates both science and English as incredibly important for getting him where he is today. “You realise just how broadly applicable those skills are. I have always had a real passion for research, the

ability to be curious and solve problems to real-world challenges. Science gives you the broad method of how to go about solving these problems but you also need to be able to effectively communicate the results, which is where skills in English are valuable. “Science is incredibly important to allow us to farm better into the future. There is a massive amount of research that goes on within the agricultural industry – from identifying forage species that grow more across the year to looking at options for reducing nitrogen leaching and methane emissions from cows.” Kieran has three bits of advice to school leavers. First, that there is more to agriculture than just milking cows. Further, you do not have to be raised on a farm to find your passion in agriculture. And lastly, that the industry is incredibly interconnected, people are always happy to show you what they do in their role, so build those connections. He adds, “Sometimes finding out what you don’t enjoy is just as important as finding what does float your boat.”

KEY FACTS ■ KIERAN McCAHON HAS A BACHELOR OF AGRICULTURE SCIENCE FROM MASSEY UNIVERSITY AND A MASTER OF MANAGEMENT MAJORING IN AGRIBUSINESS FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF WAIKATO. ■ HE WAS AWARDED TWO DAIRYNZ SCHOLARSHIPS, WHICH HE FOUND INVALUABLE DURING HIS TIME AT UNIVERSITY. ■ KIERAN WORKS FOR DAIRYNZ AS A SOLUTIONS AND DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST.

For more information on career options within the dairy sector, visit www.godairy.co.nz and www.dairynz.co.nz/people/dairy-careers

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BEEF AND SHEEP FARMER 20

LOVE THE LAND

writer SARA CARBERY // photographer PETER McDERMOTT

MAKE THE OUTDOORS YOUR OFFICE “Farming is way more than a nine to five ‘job’, ” says HEATHER GEE-TAYLOR. “It’s a lifestyle.” The 24-year-old runs 100 cows and 650 sheep on 400 acres she leases from her parents, but most of her week is spent working on the family farm in Rangiwahia, where she lives, and on another farm down the road. She is also a councillor on the Manawatu District Council. While no two days are the same, most days start with letting her dogs out of their kennels and setting off to shift sheep or cattle. Other jobs that need doing at various times include drenching, dagging, shearing, docking, weaning, fencing, building, mowing and feeding out. “It is a physical job, which makes getting into bed easy!” Heather boarded at Nga Tawa Diocesan School in Marton during her high school years. In Year 13, she took Statistics, Business Studies, Accounting, Economics and Biology.

Her business-focused subjects stood her in good stead when she enrolled in a Bachelor of Commerce (Agriculture) at Lincoln University. “I totally would recommend Lincoln to anyone with an interest in farming,” she says. “There are so many degree options now and the agricultural industry is hungry for young people with a passion to work and learn.” After graduating, Heather spent 12 months working in rural banking before deciding she didn’t want to be “stuck in an office” anymore. “I went out farming and have never looked back.” While there’s a lot to love about farming, including working outdoors and with animals every day, she admits it has its challenges. “In the middle of winter when it has been raining for a week solid it’s pretty hard to get yourself motivated and out the door.” Another challenge is understanding the purpose of what farmers do and where animals end up – “on a plate”.

“It can be a hard concept to grasp but I think once people see how well the animals are looked after then it’s pretty easy to get over that point.” If you’re considering a career in farming, Heather’s advice is to “go for it! If you aren't from a farm that’s even better! “If you aren’t 100 per cent sure whether the hands-on farmer role is for you then make sure you learn what else goes into making our sector tick. We need fertiliser reps, seed reps, vets, engineers, fencers, fuel reps, mechanics … the list goes on.” Heather hopes to one day take over the family business. “This requires building up my own equity to buy some of the land off my parents. Sheep and cattle are quite expensive so in leasing 400 acres I am giving myself the chance to pay off some debt and start to build some equity for the future. “I love the land and one day I hope to raise my kids (when I have them) the way I was raised – on the family farm.”

THE AGRICULTURAL INDUSTRY IS hungry for young people with a passion to work and LEARN. HEATHER GEE-TAYLOR

KEY FACTS ■ HEATHER GEE-TAYLOR HAS A BACHELOR OF COMMERCE (AGRICULTURE) FROM LINCOLN UNIVERSITY. ■ SHE RUNS 100 COWS AND 650 SHEEP ON 400 ACRES, WORKS ON THE FAMILY FARM IN RANGIWAHIA AND ON ANOTHER FARM DOWN THE ROAD. SHE IS ALSO A COUNCILLOR ON THE MANAWATU DISTRICT COUNCIL. ■ IN YEAR 13 AT NGA TAWA DIOCESAN SCHOOL, HEATHER STUDIED STATISTICS, BUSINESS STUDIES, ACCOUNTING, ECONOMICS AND BIOLOGY. LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ

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For more information on career opportunities with Beef + Lamb New Zealand, visit www.beeflambnz.com and for more information on studying at Lincoln University, visit www.lincoln.ac.nz

Learn about careers in sheep and beef There are many exciting careers available within sheep and beef farming and the wider red meat sector. Many people gain work on a farm directly after leaving school. Others choose to study first at a university, polytechnic or a cadet farm. The variety of positions and types of work within, and directly related to sheep and beef farming is huge. B+LNZ invests in and supports growing, training and retaining people in our sector through collaborating with others for more impact. Learn more: beeflambnz.com/people-and-training Need to talk to someone? Get in touch and email peopleandtraining@beeflambnz.com

Pathways to careers in sheep and beef Primary ITO Primary ITO offers training and learning while you work at levels 2, 3 and 4, and a full diploma. This training is arranged in conjunction with the farm manager or owner and delivered in block courses off site, combined with on job training and assessment. www.primaryito.ac.nz / 0800 20 80 20 Growing Future Farmers Support on-farm cadetship opportunities in the growing network of sheep and beef farms across New Zealand. www.growingfuturefarmers.co.nz 021 315 534 Lincoln University A specialist agricultural university in the South Island offering diplomas and degrees in agricultural commerce and science, plus related fields. www.lincoln.ac.nz / 0800 10 60 10 Telford A live-in agricultural training centre (South Island) that delivers agricultural qualifications from level 2 to diploma. www.sit.ac.nz/Telford / 0800 83 53 67 Smedley Station A full production sheep and beef station providing training for farm cadets. Trainees complete a National Certificate in Rural Servicing Level 4, as well as learning stock management and shepherding. www.smedley.ac.nz / 06 586 5725

Massey University Offering specialist agricultural courses including degrees and diplomas in agribusiness and science and the related fields of environment and resource management and veterinarian training. www.massey.ac.nz 0800 MASSEY (06 350 5701) ARA Institute of Canterbury Based in the South Island and offering a Diploma in Agriculture. www.ara.ac.nz / 0800 24 24 76 Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology Offering New Zealand Certificates Primary Industries and Agriculture and a Diploma in Agribusiness Management. www.toiohomai.ac.nz / 0800 86 46 46 Otiwhiti Station A specialisted sheep and beef live-in training farm delivering qualification in Agriculture up to level 3 and 4. www.otiwhitistation.co.nz / 0508 872 466 Waipaoa Station Waipaoa Cadet Farm is a live-in farm training operation delivering in agriculture from level 2 to 4. www.waipaoa.co.nz / 06 862 1988 Otago Polytechnic (Central Campus) Based in Cromwell, Otago Polytechnic provides agricultural training to level 4 including a specialised high country sheep and beef programme. www.central.op.ac.nz / 0800 765 9276

Did you know the red meat sector generates over 92,000 NZ jobs and contributes $12 billion in income per year for New Zealand?

Southern Institute of Technology To make a start on an agricultural career, the Vocational Pathways Primary Industries programme offers a good opportunity to gain sound practical foundation skills and knowledge in agriculture. www.sit.ac.nz/courses 0800 40 33 37 (03 211 2699) Whenua Kura A partnership between Lincoln University and Ngāi Tahu facilitating delivery of agriculture qualifications from level 3 to Diploma. www.ngaitahu.iwi.nz 0800 524 8248 (0800 KAI TAHU) Direct to farm employment It is often possible to gain employment on a sheep and beef farm directly from school. Vacancies are often advertised in local papers and the following websites: Agri-people website Federated Farmers job website TradeMe job website Seek job website

AGRICULTURE

DOGS, NATIVE BUSH AND THE OUTDOORS

FARM STOCK MANAGER writer PETER WHITE // photographer FRANCES EADE

Working on a farm in Southland has been a positive change of lifestyle for English-born ALEX DE’LAY. He arrived in New Zealand from his home in Northumberland, England in October 2017 on a working holiday. It seems nothing can stop his commitment to farming and learning as much as he can about the industry – not even losing an eye in an accident involving a firework just three weeks after he arrived in New Zealand. “I had six months off work and found work on a dairy farm. The farmer offered me a job because I showed willingness to work and then another farmer gave me a working dog,” Alex says. “It just shows you that people will help you if you help them. You make your own luck.” Alex has worked at Granity Downs, a 260-hectare intensive beef and sheep farm in Riverton for the last 20 months. It is renowned for its natural beauty and has a large area of native bush. He is a stock manager with plenty of variety in his work and loads of responsibility as he is in sole charge much of the time. “Every day you wake up and something different needs to be done. You always have jobs going on and you have to use your initiative. I am always busy. “One of the best things is I get to work with my dogs every day. It is good fun to train them and work with them. Just being outdoors is pretty much one of the biggest things about this job.” Last year, Alex completed the Beef + Lamb New Zealand Generation Next programme that involves three workshops over a six-month period. The programme gives graduates an understanding of farm business, how to develop better decision-making skills, understanding technology and genetics in the industry, the importance of managing mental health and overall industry goals. Alex loved the knowledge he gained and the trips to Dunedin and Oamaru. He says he now knows more about what it takes to become a farm manager. His advice to school leavers is to help out at your local farm to gain some hands-on experience and join your local Young Farmers’ club. Alex did not grow up on a farm but loved being involved with animals and volunteered on local farms from 14. “I just rocked up to a local farm during lambing time and asked the farmer if I could help out. I built up a bond with him over the years and went up there all the time on my bike. It was probably a three-mile bike ride each way.

ONE OF THE BEST THINGS IS I GET TO WORK WITH MY dogs EVERY DAY. IT IS GOOD FUN TO TRAIN THEM AND WORK WITH them. ALEX DE’LAY

“I never got paid for it but it was what I enjoyed and that is where my experience started from. I definitely encourage school leavers to always have a willingness to help people. “All you need is some initiative and common sense and you’ll do well in farming.”

KEY FACTS ■ ALEX DE’LAY IS THE STOCK MANAGER AT GRANITY DOWNS, A 260-HECTARE INTENSIVE BEEF AND SHEEP FARM IN RIVERTON. ■ HE COMPLETED THE BEEF + LAMB NEW ZEALAND GENERATION NEXT PROGRAMME, WHICH INVOLVED THREE WORKSHOPS OVER SIX MONTHS. ■ FOR THOSE INTERESTED IN FARMING, ALEX RECOMMENDS HELPING OUT ON A LOCAL FARM TO GAIN EXPERIENCE AND JOINING A LOCAL YOUNG FARMERS’ CLUB. LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ

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For more information on the Beef + Lamb New Zealand Generation Next programme, visit www.beeflambnz.com/ your-levies-at-work/blnzgeneration-next-programme

PATIENT TO PARAMEDIC Never giving up, going the extra mile and having a passion to help people has paid off for DAN SPEARING. The 28-year-old has quickly risen through the ranks at St John New Zealand to be the National Operations Manager – Hauora Māori, based at the national headquarters in Ellerslie, Auckland. “I have always had a passion for the health and well-being of people. I was very ill as an asthmatic when I was young, in and out of hospital like a yo-yo, so that history as a young boy played a big part,” Dan says. “I received a lot of care from doctors and nurses, plus St John ambulance officers as well. The combination of that with my passion to help people and my drive and want to go to university – [all of these] were key.” Dan went to Kelston Boys’ High School before doing Year 13 at Avondale College where he took Biology, Statistics, English, History and Physical Education. “At the end of school, I always had a goal of attending university to better myself and increase my knowledge. I actually struggled in Year 13 academically, but I always had that drive and passion to keep pushing myself. “So, I did some extra study via correspondence to get my Level 3 NCEA after I left school. I then did a Diploma in Sport and Recreation at AUT University and got some really good grades before moving on to a Bachelor of Health Science majoring in Paramedicine. “I finished in 2014 and entered St John becoming a front-line ambulance officer. I guess a positive attitude, drive and energy has kept me moving forward. “For our frontline ambulance officers, there are various levels of skill. I started as a volunteer ambulance officer in my final year at university, then became an emergency medical technician, then got my paramedic practice authority, before moving into the clinical audit and research team.

“I was managing our national clinical audit process, which reviews clinical practice and provides retrospective clinical feedback. “In the last few months, I moved into my current role as National Operations Manager – Hauora Māori.” Dan is of Ngāti Kahungunu and Ngāti Rongomaiwahine descent. He says his role is bringing a holistic approach from a Māori perspective into the ambulance service. “The overarching goal is to improve health equity within our communities. I am trying to make some

writer PETER WHITE photographer LOGAN WEST

really positive changes for all New Zealanders but more specifically Māori.” Dan sees St John as a viable option for students to consider in many different roles – from marketing through to media learning, finance, business intelligence plus the more well-known ambulance operations. “To be an ambulance officer is a balance of clinical and practical skills but also interpersonal and communication skills as well. “It is a unique space to work in and a real privilege as well.”

TO BE AN AMBULANCE officer is a balance of CLINICAL AND PRACTICAL SKILLS BUT ALSO interpersonal and COMmunication skills as well. DAN SPEARING

KEY FACTS ■ DAN SPEARING IS THE NATIONAL OPERATIONS MANAGER – HAUORA MĀORI AT ST JOHN NEW ZEALAND. ■ HE HAS A DIPLOMA IN SPORT AND RECREATION FROM AUT UNIVERSITY AND A BACHELOR OF HEALTH SCIENCE MAJORING IN PARAMEDICINE. ■ DAN IS BRINGING A HOLISTIC TE AO MĀORI APPROACH TO THE AMBULANCE SERVICE IN HIS ROLE.

For more information on careers with St John, visit www.stjohn.org.nz and for more information on studying Paramedicine at AUT, visit www.aut.ac.nz

LEAVING SCHOOL ISSUE #20

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ST JOHN NEW ZEALAND

PASSION FOR HEALTH AND WELL-BEING

INDUSTRY OF THRILLS AND FUN writer PETER WHITE photo credit GO WITH TOURISM

TOURISM

LICENSED TO BE YOURSELF

“I love everything about the job at Hukafalls Jet. There’s not one day I’ve not wanted to go to work,” says ALICE ORR. The 22-year-old is a reservations and customer service executive for Hukafalls Jet in Taupō, and she is also training to become a jet boat driver. Her role involves sales, organising tour groups, prepping the boats, kitting out customers with lifejackets, taking photographs and care of visitors. Alice started working part-time at the company when she was 14. “One of the things I love about the tourism industry is that you are encouraged to be yourself. I found school really hard as I am talkative and chatty,” she says. “It is fun and you are making people happy. You meet people from different cultures, and they are all ages, from little kids to our oldest passenger who was 79.” In her final year (Year 12) at Taupō-nui-a-Tia College, Alice took Tourism, Outdoor Leadership, English, Maths and Science. Tourism is well and truly in the blood as her mum is head of tourism at the school.

Alice then completed the 18-month Diploma in Adventure Tourism Management at Queenstown Resort College. She had six months in Queenstown and a further six months on an internship in Australia before finishing the diploma back in Queenstown.

ONE OF THE THINGS I LOVE ABOUT the TOURISM INDUSTRY IS THAT you ARE ENCOURAGED TO BE YOURSELF. ALICE ORR

COVID-19 struck the tourism business in New Zealand hard. Last year, Alice was laid off from her job temporarily. Rather than doing nothing, she came up with the idea to set up a nanny service for visitors. “I didn’t know what I was going to do as tourism was all I knew. So I put an advert out there for

babysitting work and got a huge response as there was a shortage of au pairs as they couldn’t get into the country. “I thought there must be a gap in the market, so I started Operation Nanny last July and I now have six part-time nannies working for me.” Alice says school leavers should consider a career in tourism if they are hardworking, bubbly and can show initiative. “I think tourism can be perceived as an easy class to take at school, which can frustrate me at times. We still need to work just as hard as everybody else to give the best experience we can. “I do recommend the industry. It is great to work in but it is definitely what you put in to it that matters. The more you want to learn, the more we will teach you. “We do teach all the skills on-the-job. I was a zipline guide for a season in Queenstown and I had never been on a zipline before. “So don’t worry if you haven’t had experience or have the skills as it definitely comes down to the personal attributes that you can bring to the job.”

KEY FACTS ■ ALICE ORR HAS A DIPLOMA IN ADVENTURE TOURISM MANAGEMENT FROM QUEENSTOWN RESORT COLLEGE. ■ SHE WORKS AS A RESERVATIONS AND CUSTOMER SERVICE EXECUTIVE FOR HUKAFALLS JET IN TAUPŌ AND IS TRAINING TO BECOME A JET BOAT DRIVER. ■ ALICE TOOK TOURISM, OUTDOOR LEADERSHIP, ENGLISH, MATHS AND SCIENCE IN YEAR 12 AT TAUPŌ-NUI-A-TIA COLLEGE.

LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ

| LEAVING SCHOOL ISSUE #20

For more information on career opportunities in the tourism industry, visit www.gowithtourism.co.nz

FIND YOUR WAY INTO THE WORLD OF WORK

NZ CAREERS EXPO

IT’S JUST A CLICK AWAY

Figuring out your next steps after leaving school can be tricky, but the New Zealand Careers Expo’s new online expo is here to make things easier.

ONLINE EXPO

2021 EXPO LOCATIONS If you can, it’s well worth heading to your closest expo location. The interactive and informative expos are visited every year by thousands of young people wanting to explore their study and employment options.

Designed to help you stay up-to-date with the latest careers news and events, the NZ Careers Expo online digital expo gives you instant access to a wide range of career and training options from employers, tertiary providers and training institutions.

For the past 30 years, the New Zealand Careers Expo has supported school leavers just like you, by providing valuable information about training and job prospects. Admission is free for all visitors and the expos will take place in Christchurch, Auckland, Dunedin, Hamilton and Wellington over May and June.

Heading along to one of the physical Careers Expos that take place across the country is a fantastic way to gather information and find out what the expos have to offer. With the new online expo you can learn about and connect with the exhibitors before, during and after the physical expos. This enables you to continue the conversation long after a visit to your local expo. Don’t worry if you can’t make it to an expo as you can easily link up with the wide range of exhibitors on the online directory, as well as receive up-to-date articles and tips to help with your career choices. Be sure to check out the informative careers articles and videos featured in the online digital expo. The regular updates and news will help keep you in the know when it comes to taking your first steps into the world of work.

2021 NEW ZEALAND CAREERS EXPO SCHEDULE Christchurch on 13–15 May at Christchurch Arena Auckland on 20–22 May at ASB Showgrounds Dunedin on 9 June at Dunedin Town Hall Hamilton on 13–14 June at Claudelands Event Centre Wellington on 25–26 June at TSB Arena, Queens Wharf Make finding your career path easier by visiting your town’s expo and making the most of the year-round online expo. For more information on New Zealand Careers Expo, visit careersexpo.org.nz

LEAVING SCHOOL ISSUE #20

| LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ

FINANCIAL TIPS

BUDGET OR BUST

writer DIANA CLEMENT // image iSTOCK

APPS TO GET YOURSELF SORTED Getting through uni and youth in one piece financially means learning to manage your money. A budget really is magic for your money. It sorts your spending and shows where your money is going. You will know at a glance how much money you have coming in and going out and if you’re on track. It also helps you spot savings that can be made in your day-to-day spending. Think of it as a spending plan where you count what’s coming in and divvy it up in categories, such as food, transport, clothing and going out. Budgeting is something anyone can learn and apps make it even easier. There are simple apps for budgeting. Some banks such as Westpac and ASB allow you to track spending and/or budget from within your banking app. If you want simple and online but not an app, Sorted.org.nz has a basic online budget to get you started. If you want a standalone app in your hand, you have multiple choices, although not all are free and some don’t access your bank account directly.

Two simple-to-use apps available on Apple and Android and worth checking out are Goodbudget and Toshl.

THE BETTER APPS UPDATE FROM YOUR BANK ACCOUNT AUTOMATICALLY, WHICH MEANS YOU SEE WHAT YOU’RE SPENDING WITHOUT UPLOADING YOUR STATEMENTS. They allow you to assign a certain sum of money to different categories and at a glance see what you’ve spent so far in that envelope.

Other app options to check out include Wally, Mvelopes, Spendee, Personal Capital and Pocketguard. One downside for students is that many of the better apps aren’t free. Even $5 a month might be a stretch for you. Free apps, such as the very good Fudget, often require that you upload your transactions manually, which may put you off. Goodbudget has both paid-for options and free. With the free one, you are limited on the number of accounts you have and devices you want to use it on. Mybudgetpal from KiwiSaver-provider Booster is free, but not technically an app because you access it from a website. As you progress with your finances you might well want to upgrade to those comprehensive paid-for apps. Some, such as New Zealand’s own PocketSmith, or YNAB, are very good full-service apps that offer a lot more detail and flexibility than some of the app-only budgets. They’ll grow with you if you get into more complex investing, which could happen sooner than you expect.

LOOKING TO START YOUR CAREER IN THE FAST FOOD INDUSTRY If you are looking for your first job or a cool place to work look no further The more training you complete the more you can earn. Part-time or full time hours available to work around your life, apply now.

www.kfcjobs.co.nz www.carlsjrjobs.co.nz www.pizzahutjobs.co.nz www.tacobelljobs.co.nz www.restaurantbrands.co.nz/our-people

FINANCIAL TIPS 27

The better apps update from your bank account automatically, which means you see what you’re spending without uploading your statements. But be warned – banks in New Zealand aren’t that keen on you using apps that automatically access your accounts. They say by using these apps you breach their terms and conditions.

It’s a really good idea to try out more than one app. Everyone’s brain works differently with money and you’ll click with some apps better than others.

even in a notebook that you carry around with you. Whatever works for you.

Often it comes down to how your money is displayed, and how easy the app is for you to use personally.

For helpful tips on budgeting, visit www.sorted.org.nz/tool/ budgeting-tool#/welcome

Finally, if you’re so inclined, there is no reason why you can’t do your budgeting with a spreadsheet or

UNIVERSITY TRANSITION 28

FINDING THE TRANSITION HARD? BE BRAVE, SEEK ASSISTANCE Starting university is a huge step. If it turns out not to be the perfect dream you had imagined, you will find all sorts of help on campus – far more help than you might expect. Universities don’t want you to drop out. Every tertiary institution has departments that can help, and so too can your student association. A problem shared is a problem halved. It’s a big step up from NCEA to tertiary study, says Dr Stephen Scott, head of student success at the University of Otago. If you find yourself out of your depth or unhappy, don’t just assume someone will spot your problem, seek assistance. It’s not like school where you may have 20 students in a class. University of Otago, for example, has 4,000 first-year students. Be brave and seek advice, says Dr Scott. There is a lot of help on every campus for personal and financial crises. If your issues are personal, such as a relationship breakup or problems at home, you could see the counsellors. If you are feeling unsure about your courses, see a student advisor who can help you reconsider your course options. If you need study help, the student learning department can help you navigate university life better. If you have no idea why you’re at university, then the careers office is the place to go. LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ

writer DIANA CLEMENT photo STEVE BULL – UNIVERSITY OF OTAGO

Universities such as the University of Otago will have other services that can help – such as the Māori Centre, Te Huka Mātauraka, Disability Information and Support, the Pacific Island centre, international advisers and Student Health.

EVERY TERTIARY INSTITUTION HAS DEPARTMENTS THAT CAN help, AND so TOO CAN YOUR STUDENT ASSOCIATION. A PROBLEM SHARED IS A PROBLEM HALVED. Don’t delay. The sooner you sort your issues out, the less the chance of wasting your fees-free first year. Going into debt for university can be very expensive if you don’t come out with a qualification, get poor grades or take a year longer than expected. If you’re stressing about money, you’ll find a broad range of financial support and advice on campus.

| LEAVING SCHOOL ISSUE #20

At the University of Waikato, like most other universities, you can apply for hardship grants, scholarships and get broader support for student health and wellbeing. All universities can put you in touch with budget advisors, but if your money issues reflect wider problems, you might want to speak to the counsellors on campus first. Even if you think you can’t be helped, make contact with support services. They’ve assisted thousands of students just like you in the past and may well have an answer you’ve not considered. Student unions also offer many services. The Waikato Students’ Union (WSU), for example, has a “money matters” segment in its orientation programme. The Nexus student newspaper, like others around the country, has useful advice and discounts. The WSU operates its own financial hardship fund, food bank and can provide students with supermarket, petrol and bus vouchers. Like many other student unions, the WSU gives away free food on campus. Look for clubs on campus that could help you. The University of Auckland has an investment club that could help hone your financial skills while Victoria University of Wellington has a Business and Investment Club.

THE FUTURE LOOKS VERY BRIGHT

writer PETER WHITE photographer JACK ROGERS

”Don’t underestimate a trade – it can take you further in life than you think,” says VALENTINO EYER. The 23-year-old from Kaitaia in Northland qualified as a plumber and gasfitter in October 2020 after being a standout performer during his Masterlink plumbing apprenticeship.

In 2019, he won both the branch and regional heats of Plumbing World’s Young Plumber of the Year competition, reaching the national final in Hamilton. He was the only apprentice to make it to the final and was recognised with the Most Valued Plumber Award. “Being part of the Young Plumber of the Year competition was a real eye-opener. I was proud of what I had achieved as an apprentice as I had my doubts about taking on qualified competitors. I thoroughly enjoyed the competition. “I learned that no matter the circumstances you’ve always got to give it your best.” Valentino decided on a plumbing, gasfitting and drainlaying career while still at Kaitaia College. He met Jack Rogers from Rogers & Rogers Plumbers and started working for him through the school’s Gateway programme. “I decided to take on a plumbing and gasfitting apprenticeship as I was interested in the trade. My father being a builder was also a large influence, always telling me how awesome the plumbing trade is. “Being able to participate in the Gateway programme was the best thing for me. I was able to take one day a week to get a taste for the trade. I knew straight away that the large variety of work was for me. “My relationship with Jack Rogers was quickly established and he was happy to wait a whole year until I finished Year 13.” Valentino says definitely the best thing about working for the company is the large area and variety of work they cover.

PLUMBER AND GASFITTER

HANDS-ON ROLE WITH VARIETY

THE future PROSPECTS ARE VERY GOOD FOR THE PLUMBING TRADE. VALENTINO EYER

“In one day, I could be working in all five trades we cover – roofing, gasfitting, plumbing, drainlaying and sheet-metal fabrication. I very rarely carry out the same tasks two days in a row. “I enjoy the hands-on aspect and the thinking required to problem solve. The satisfaction of carrying out tidy work and helping customers is very rewarding.” Valentino took Mathematics, Calculus, Physics, Physical Education, History and Geography in Year 13 at Kaitaia College. The best advice he has for school leavers is to take in as much information as you can and always listen to your trainer. “What makes a good apprentice is someone who turns up to work on time every day and

who is able to think for themselves with common sense. Not being afraid to ask questions and having good problem-solving skills will make a good apprentice.” The career opportunities for young people getting into trades has never looked better. “The future prospects are very good for the plumbing trade. The older generation of plumbers are starting to retire and there are few young plumbers to follow in their footsteps.”

KEY FACTS ■ VALENTINO EYER IS A QUALIFIED PLUMBER AND GASFITTER HAVING COMPLETED THE MASTERLINK PLUMBING APPRENTICESHIP. ■ HE WON HIS BRANCH AND REGIONAL HEATS OF PLUMBING WORLD’S YOUNG PLUMBER OF THE YEAR COMPETITION, REACHING THE NATIONAL FINAL IN HAMILTON. HE WAS AWARDED THE MOST VALUED PLUMBER AWARD. ■ VALENTINO WORKS FOR ROGERS & ROGERS PLUMBERS, HAVING STARTED THERE VIA HIS HIGH SCHOOL’S GATEWAY PROGRAMME.

For more information on training in gasfitting, plumbing and drainlaying through Masterlink, visit www.masterlink.co.nz

LEAVING SCHOOL ISSUE #20

| LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ

IN FOCUS: PRIMARY INDUSTRIES A CLOSER LOOK AT SOME FASCINATING JOBS

THERE ARE SO MANY THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN LOOKING AT WHICH PATH TO TAKE AFTER SCHOOL. HAVE A LOOK AT THE FOLLOWING JOBS AND LEARN ABOUT THE RELEVANT FACTORS FOR EACH POSITION. Here you’ll find profiles of nine jobs from across the primary industries. Each profile includes detailed job descriptors and some insightful statistics.

LOW POO R

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LENGTH OF STUDY

LOW

MEDIUM

INCOME AVERAGE

POO R

FORESTRY AND LOGGING WORKER DAIRY FARMER Kaimahi waonui / Tope rākau FARM MANAGER Kaiwhakahaere pāmu

JOB PROSPECTS

LENGTH OF STUDY

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LOW POO R

JOB PROSPECTS

VARIES

LENGTH OF STUDY

LOW

MEDIUM

INCOME AVERAGE D GOO

LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.NZ

AVERAGE

H HIG

Please note: The occupations listed have been colour coded to their predominant industry sector colours using the Vocational Pathway colour chart.

INCOME

D GOO

Also known as: Food scientist; packaging technologist; product development technologist; research and development technologist; research scientist; food engineer; research technologist. Food technologists work with food and drink goods, by researching, developing and improving these products. They may be involved in the processing, packaging, storage and safety of food in order to meet government and industry standards. To become a qualified food technologist, most employers require prospective employees to have a bachelor's degree in food technology, food science or food engineering, though a master's degree is preferred. Food technologists often have on-the-job training programmes for specific products and processes. NCEA subjects that are useful in this role are Economics, Maths, Physics, Chemistry and Biology. Statistics: Job prospects: Good. Length of study: 3–5 years. Pay scale: F ood technologists with up to five years’ experience earn $50,000–$75,000 per year. Senior food technologists with more than five years’ experience earn $75,000–$100,000 per year.

MEDIUM H HIG

FOOD TECHNOLOGIST Kaihangarau kai

AVERAGE

D GOO

Also known as: Beef cattle farmer; deer farmer; goat farmer; pig farmer; poultry farmer; sheep farmer; dairy cattle farmer. Farm managers are responsible for the planning, management and day-to-day running of farms. Farm managers manage farms for farm owners, who own the land. They perform tasks such as buying and selling stock, managing financial records, herding and shifting stock, and maintain and repairing farm equipment. There are no formal entry requirements to work as a farm manager, but experience is highly valued. Post-school qualifications are becoming increasingly common, as farm managers are needing good technical and business skills as the role keeps developing. All forms of study, from degree level to national certificate, are likely to improve employment chances. NCEA subjects that are useful in this role are Agriculture, Horticulture, Maths, Accounting, Biology, Business Studies and Science. Statistics: Job prospects: Good. Length of study: Varies. Pay scale: Dairy farm managers earn on average $70,400 per year and sheep/beef farm manager earn on average $69,000 per year. Farm managers may also be offered other benefits, such as free or subsidised housing.

INCOME

H HIG

Also known as: Forestry harvesting worker; forestry mensuration worker; forestry silviculture worker. Forestry and logging workers plant, maintain, measure, cut and clear trees from forests. They are generally involved in the many day-to-day tasks as part of running the forestry operation. There are no specific entry requirements to become a forestry and logging worker. The best way to train for this role is to learn on-the-job. Competenz manage apprenticeships in forestry. A New Zealand Certificate in Forestry Operations (Level 3) can be done while working, as part of an apprenticeship. NCEA subjects that are useful in this role are Agriculture and Horticulture, Construction and Mechanical Technologies, Maths and English. Chances of getting a job as a forestry and logging worker is good due to strong demand. Statistics: Job prospects: Good. Length of study: 1 year. Pay scale: Trainee forestry and logging workers earn $40,000–$65,000 per year; qualified forestry and logging workers earn $65,000–$75,000 per year.

MEDIUM

D GOO

Also known as: Bosun; commercial inshore vessel deckhand; fishing deckhand; deck watch rating; superyacht crew; maritime tourism deck crew; able seafarer deckhand. Deckhands are general workers/labourers on ships in coastal and international waters. The tasks they perform depend on the type of ship they are working on; for example, on fishing vessels the main tasks include catching and processing fish and vessel maintenance. There are no entry requirements to work as a deckhand but there are pre-employment courses (such as the entry-level certificates of Qualified Deck Crew and Deck Watch Rating) and on-the-job qualifications (such as the certificate in Advanced Deckhand-Fishing). Most employers require employees to pass medical, eyesight and colour vision, and drug tests. NCEA subjects that are useful in this role are English and Maths. Job prospects for deckhands are quite good. Employment in this area is projected to increase and there is high turnover of staff. Statistics: Job prospects: Good. Length of study: Varies. Pay scale: Deckhands on inshore fishing vessels earn $39,000–$55,000 per year; deckhands on deep-sea fishing vessels earn $45,000–$90,000 per year. The average annual income for deckhands is estimated to be around $62,000.

H HIG

DECKHAND DAIRY FARMER Ringa paparahi

POO R

JOBS IN FOCUS

Job data has been sourced from OCCUPATION OUTLOOK and CAREERS NEW ZEALAND, visit www.occupationoutlook.mbie.govt.nz and www.careers.govt.nz

JOB PROSPECTS

LENGTH OF STUDY

LOW

JOB PROSPECTS

VARIES

LENGTH OF STUDY

LOW

MEDIUM H HIG

INCOME AVERAGE D GOO

Also known as: Sheep shearer. Shearers remove wool from sheep, using electric or manual clippers. Sometimes they also shear other animals such as goats and alpacas. The chances of getting a job as a shearer are average due to limited vacancies, but employment is projected to grow for the next few years. To work as a shearer, there are no entry requirements. Most skills are learned on-the-job though formal qualifications are becoming more common. Shearers who want a formal qualification can become apprentices and complete the New Zealand Certificate in Shearing (Blade/Crossbred/Fine). This certificate is available at Levels 3 and 4. NCEA subjects that are useful in this role are Agricultural and Horticultural Science. Statistics: Job prospects: Average. Length of study: Varies. Pay scale: Shearers with one to three years’ experience earn $39,000–$65,000 per year. Shearers with more than three years’ experience earn $65,000–$130,000 per year.

JOB PROSPECTS

VARIES

LOW

MEDIUM H HIG

INCOME

POO R

AVERAGE D GOO

FISHING SKIPPER Kaiurungi hao ika

LENGTH OF STUDY

Also known as: Deep-sea fishing skipper; inshore fishing skipper; master of a deep-sea fishing vessel; aquaculture barge skipper; vessel skipper; fishing mate; vessel mate. Skippers are the captains of a ship. They are responsible for everything that happens on the ship and have overall command on board. They have a range of responsibilities – from navigating the vessel and organising the crew to catching and processing fish. To become a qualified skipper, you need to complete a qualification and get a certificate from Maritime New Zealand. These will vary depending on where the ship operates and its size. Additionally, you must pass a medical test, an eyesight test and be assessed as a “fit and proper person” by Marine New Zealand. Additional qualifications, for example, in first aid and survival, are also required. NCEA subjects that are useful in this role are Biology, Geography and Maths. Statistics: Job prospects: Average. Length of study: 2 years. Pay scale: I nshore fishing skippers earn $40,000–$80,000 per year. Deep-sea fishing skippers earn $130,000–$280,000 per year.

JOB PROSPECTS

LOW

MEDIUM H HIG

INCOME

POO R

AVERAGE D GOO

VETERINARIAN Pūkenga hauora kararehe

LENGTH OF STUDY

Also known as: Industry veterinarian; vet. Veterinarians provide advice and treatment that prevents illness and injury in animals, as well as advice and treatment on treating sick and injured animals. They provide general animal care across all species – from pets to farm and zoo animals – and develop specialist skills to assist with surgery, medicine, epidemiology and pharmacology for animals. To become a veterinarian, you need to complete a Bachelor of Veterinary Science. This is only offered by Massey University and each year 124 students are accepted. You also need to be registered with the Veterinary Council of New Zealand and have an annual practising certificate. NCEA subjects that are useful in this role are Chemistry, Biology, Physics and Maths. Statistics: Job prospects: Good. Length of study: 5 years. Pay scale: New veterinarians earn $60,000–$83,000 per year. Experienced veterinarians earn $80,000–$150,000 per year

JOB PROSPECTS

LOW

MEDIUM H HIG

INCOME

POO R

AVERAGE D GOO

WINEMAKER Kaihanga waina

LENGTH OF STUDY

Also known as: Oenologist (scientific winemaker); viticulturist; vintner. Winemakers plan and manage wine production. This can include planning the harvest of grapes, deciding which grapes to use and the specific blend of a wine. Other elements of their role include ensuring legal standards and specifications are met, managing winery workers and marketing and selling wine. There are no specific requirements to become a winemaker, but most employers prefer you to have a qualification. Some options include the Graduate Diploma in Viticulture or Oenology, Bachelor of Viticulture and Winemaking, and Bachelor of Wine Science. Winemakers usually start out as cellar hands or assistant winemakers before progressing to become winemakers. NCEA subjects that are useful in this role are Chemistry, Maths, Physics and Processing Technologies. Statistics: Job prospects: Average. Length of study: Varies. Pay scale: Assistant winemakers earn $38,000–$83,000 per year. Winemakers and chief winemakers earn $89,000–$211,000 per year.

JOB PROSPECTS

VARIES

LENGTH OF STUDY

LEAVING SCHOOL ISSUE #20

JOBS IN FOCUS

POO R

AVERAGE

POO R

PRIMARY PRODUCT INSPECTOR Āpiha ārai mate hōrapa / Āpiha hao ika

INCOME

D GOO

SHEARER Kaikuti hipi

MEDIUM H HIG

Also known as: Quarantine officer; fishery officer; meat inspector. A relatively small number of people are employed as primary product inspectors across New Zealand but employment numbers are slowly and steadily growing. Quarantine officers check food and goods entering New Zealand. Meat inspectors inspect animal carcasses to ensure they are safe for consumers. Fisheries officers inspect vessels, catches and permits to make sure fish is being caught in accordance with fishery laws. To become a qualified primary product inspector, it is necessary to decide on the type of inspector role you are looking at and then look into the relevant qualification as there are different entry requirements for the different types of inspectors. The number of inspectors in employment is projected to increase slightly out to 2028 so there should be jobs available for students wanting to enter this industry, particularly as job vacancies have increased. Statistics: Job prospects: Good. Length of study: Varies. Pay scale: The average estimated income for primary product inspectors is $62,200 per year.

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DISCOVER YOUR FUTURE

Explore your options Plan your next step Christchurch. 13-15 May Christchurch Arena Auckland. 20 -22 May ASB Showgrounds Dunedin. 9 June Dunedin Town Hall Hamilton. 13-14 June Claudelands Showgrounds Wellington. 25-26 June TSB Arena More info: careersexpo.org.nz gowithtourism.co.nz

Check out the

ONLINE DIGITAL EXPO

Hundreds of employers, educational, vocational, and training providers to explore. Start a converstion.

careerexpo.org.nz

Leaving School 20

Articles inside

BEEF AND SHEEP FARMER

KIERAN McCAHON