Talent pipelines to Ōtautahi's growth industries are being strengthened through Student360, a programme that gives high school students the opportunity to experience the world of work and different career pathways within some of the region’s most exciting businesses.
The programme enables students to gain real world experience and make informed choices in their journey into higher education or career pathways through paid work experience during the school term holidays. It also offers valuable connection building through hands-on time spent with professionals in different roles. Student360 is equally as beneficial for the businesses involved, as it provides essential exposure of the industry to their future workforce, encouraging enrolments in related tertiary study and subsequent employment. This is critical for growing sectors as career opportunities can often be unknown among students.
Four students from Shirley Boys’ High School and Avonside Girls High School worked at two local businesses, Seequent and Enztec, over the July school holidays. Here’s what they had to say:
Dominic (Seequent):
“The key highlights of my internship were the ability to make connections and seeing the vast amount of job opportunities out there that I’m not exposed to at school. I learnt about different aspects of the tech industry and had a great time going through all of the workshops and getting a brief overview of what each career specialises in. There were also tons of activities specifically requiring youth to help with whiwhia I really enjoyed being part of.”
DominicThe key highlights of my internship were the ability to make connections and seeing the vast amount of job opportunities out there that I’m not exposed to at school."
Merita (Enztec):
“For five days, I got the amazing opportunity to be able to work at Enztec, a medical device design, manufacturing and regulatory company through the Student360 programme. A little secret is that I honestly hadn’t heard of this company before and didn't know much about them before coming here, so I was a little nervous and didn’t know what to expect. But on my first day, I met Nicolette, who so kindly looked after us during our time here. As she showed me around the workplace, I came to find that the work environment was happy and healthy. The place had a comfortable and professional feel, and everyone was kind and friendly, not afraid to give a wave or a smile.”
Nicolette, one of the employers from Enztec says that hosting the students was a positive experience for the business.
“It was a pleasure hosting students Merita and Bronsen. It was rewarding for Enztec staff to experience their fresh perspective and support in getting some important tasks done. The student’s curiosity was rewarded with insights into what careers look like in the medical devices and manufacturing industries – as well as some valuable learnings they can apply to all aspects of life.”
For more information contact:
Karen Haigh
