Kia Tū Trade Training Programme an ongoing success
In October the second group began the Kia Tū pathway programme at the Southern Institute of Technology (SIT). The group are now well underway with exploring their pathway options and developing their ideas about future life and work.
On Wednesday 13 November the group enjoyed an incredible experience of visiting the Manapōuri Power Station. This included a ferry across lake Manapōuri and then exploration through the facility. We are grateful to Meridian Energy for supporting the programme.
Kia Tū visit to Manapōuri Hydro Power Station.
Other organisations the group will visit are:
- South Port
- Tiwai Point Aluminium Smelter
- Invercargill Licencing Trust
- Downers
- Niagara Sawmill
Programme lead, Ivan Hodgetts commented that “an important part of our philosophy is that ‘if you can’t see it, you can’t be it’. This programme provides the opportunity for people to see a broad range of occupations and industry occurring in our region. Seeing the reality of industry and the breadth of occupations available is great. The willingness of our partners in industry to arrange these visits, and the stories about their own pathway that staff tell give the participants a rich insight into the world of work”.
Another great outcome from the programme is that participants build their knowledge, confidence and connection with SIT. Several have now enrolled in further study at SIT, to build the foundation of capability they will need to enter industry. This is a great outcome, helped in no small part by participants showing what they are capable of through their success in the Kia Tū programme.
SIT’s Russell Finlay commented that “we have seen these Ākonga go from strength to strength. It is really encouraging to see how they have developed and it gives us confidence to support their enrolment in trade related courses”.
During and after the Kia Tū programme, participants are supported to make their pathway aspirations a reality. Our Anamata Māia service does this work. The team is enjoying working alongside participants. Outcomes to date from the first cohort who completed the course in October are encouraging. Seven have now secured employment and three have enrolled in further study linked to their aspirations.
Interest in the programme continues to be strong. We are now recruiting participants for a third programme starting in late January 2025. If you or someone you know would like to be a part of the programme, contact or programme coordinator Abby: [Enable JavaScript to view protected content].
Should you know of employment opportunities and want to be involved in supporting our regions people, please let us know.
Of, course no programme is successful without the support of our sponsors and partners. We appreciate the ongoing collaboration with SIT and industry in our region.
Posted: 19 November 2024