Vocational Pathways
Vocational Pathways provide new ways to achieve NCEA Level 2 – the foundation for success in future education and careers.
Manufacturing and Technology
From hands-on production and assembly to cutting edge research, from massive machines and busy production lines, to individual crafts or computer design.
“I want to create things that move. My path is Red.”
You might be working with huge lumps of metal or delicately assembling tiny component parts – so small you can’t even see them. You’ll be working with tools, machinery and equipment, or maybe a computer. You could be producing things in their millions, or making or designing individual one-offs. You might be fabricating or maintaining systems, or doing a job involving lots of thinking and planning.
Some roles are really creative; many are methodical, detailed and precise. Generally in this pathway, there’s a very clear end point to the job you’re doing and you’ll know exactly what part you played in it.
You’ll be able say “I had a hand in that – I changed a life, it couldn’t have happened without me.”
Start planning your journey from learning to earning at
www.youthguarantee.net.nz/start-your-journey-now/
Related subjects at Tarawera High School
Construction & Infrastructure
From hands-on production and assembly to cutting You’ll be part of a well-run team that’s committed to getting the job done safely and well, to meet the client’s specifications. You’ll work indoors and outdoors. Often it’ll be dusty, noisy and the hours may vary.
“I like being practical. Building skills will set me up for life. My path is Orange.”
You’ll move around from site to site, working with lots of different tradespeople, contractors and clients. You’ll have a variety of different tasks, and you’ll use a lot of different tools and types of machinery. The work is physical and active and you will learn by doing.
Types of jobs for this Vocational Pathway include:
- Builder
- Civil Engineer
- Earthworks
- Forklift Operator
- Interior Designer
- Project Manager
- Surveyor
- Welder
Start planning your journey from learning to earning at
www.youthguarantee.net.nz/start-your-journey-now/
Related subjects at Tarawera High School
Creative Industries
You will apply your creative skills and imagination to help people see the world differently.
“I’m passionate about design. My path is Yellow.”
You’ll come up with new ideas or variations on existing ones. Sometimes you will need to analyse problems and come up with solutions, or develop fresh ways to express existing concepts or ideas.
Working in this sector can often call for big picture thinking and attention to detail. Be ready to apply your talents across different fields. You will need to be flexible, adaptable, resilient and make sure there is always a market or audience for your creations or skills.
You may work independently or in a team to resolve technical, artistic and challenging problems. You can be part of making a real contribution to your community.
Types of jobs for this Vocational Pathway include:
- Artist
- Graphic Designer
- Screen Printer
- Actor
- Art Director
- Technical Manager
- Stage/Set Designer
- Creative Director
Start planning your journey from learning to earning at
www.youthguarantee.net.nz/start-your-journey-now/
Related subjects at Tarawera High School
Primary Industries
There’s a huge range and diversity of jobs from hands-on, to science or business roles and a lot of opportunities to learn new skills.
“I enjoy being outdoors and working on the farm. My path is Green.”
You can work outdoors or indoors, alone or with mates. You could be in a processing plant, turning primary produce into value-added goods for export.
You might work far from the farm in a big city office organising shipping, or developing new markets. If you’re into science and technology, you may be contributing to the next leading agricultural breakthrough or new consumer product.
You’ll be contributing to an important and sustainable sector that’s one of New Zealand’s biggest employers and exporters. Whether you’re from a rural background or a townie, there’s something here for you.
Types of jobs for this Vocational Pathway include:
- Biochemist
- Farm Worker
- Fishery Officer
- Food Technologist
- Hunter/Trapper
- Production Manager
- Vet
- Winemaker
Start planning your journey from learning to earning at
www.youthguarantee.net.nz/start-your-journey-now/
Related subjects at Tarawera High School
Service Industries
There’s a huge range and diversity of jobs from hands-on, to science or business rIt’s a great sector for young people. If you enjoy working with people you’ll get a kick out of it.
“Seeing people enjoy something I have made is the best feeling. My path is Blue.”
Good communication and presentation skills are important. Working in teams and dealing with people means you’ll need to speak and listen well to others and relate to people from all walks of life. You’ll also be able to pay attention to detail.
Knowledge of New Zealand and local culture and heritage is a real asset.
With skills from this sector, you can work and travel the world. It can be truly inspirational – from travel to tourism, hairdressing to hospitality, physical fitness to finance services. In these jobs you’re the brand, dealing directly with people.
Types of jobs for this Vocational Pathway include:
- Accountant
- Army Soldier
- Chef
- Events Manager
- Hairdresser
- Journalist
- Purchasing Officer
- Sales Representative
Start planning your journey from learning to earning at
www.youthguarantee.net.nz/start-your-journey-now/
Related subjects at Tarawera High School
Social & Community Services
This sector is all about caring for people and keeping them safe. It can be exciting, personally rewarding, physically and emotionally demanding.
“I want to make a real difference for people. My path is Purple”
The range of jobs is huge, from monitoring and protecting people and property (corrections, defence, or firefighting), to caring for people in need (healthcare, community and social work, medicine or therapy).
You’ll be dealing with people from all ages and walks of life, and there will be times where you’ll find yourself in fast-changing, challenging situations, where you may have to make quick decisions under pressure.
It’s a highly social sector; even if you work alone you’ve generally got a strong team behind you that supports you and depends on you.
This sector is also a really big employer. This means your skills can be highly transferable in New Zealand and overseas.
Types of jobs for this Vocational Pathway include:
- Health Services Manager
- Ambulance Officer
- Firefighter
- Laboratory Technician
- Midwife
- Police Officer
- Security Guard
- Teacher
Start planning your journey from learning to earning at
www.youthguarantee.net.nz/start-your-journey-now/