Building students’ career plans
Students from five different Waikato schools, including Cambridge High School, took part in a construction tour around Cambridge.
The aim was to introduce them to different aspects of the building industry, which has a high demand for tradespeople.
BCITO organised the tour, and run it annually.
Group manager Bruce Horsley said it was a chance to show students that there are alternatives to university, where people can still have a successful career.
‘‘The industry has a desperate shortage of skilled tradespeople so we want to open up the opportunity for school students to see what it’s about,’’ he said.
‘‘Apprenticeships lead to big qualifications in construction, and supervisor careers. They’re not just coming in on one level, there are multiple opportunities to have a big career.’’
He said the high demand for builders came down to immigration rates and people looking to move out of Auckland.
‘‘We have to house them somewhere,’’ he said.
Cambridge High School Gateway teacher Liz Wilson said it was a great opportunity.
‘‘I think it will raise awareness for the students that there are different aspects of construction, and possible job opportunities would be wonderful,’’ she said.
All of the CHS students attending were in their last year of high school, so it’s important for them to find employment if they decide not to go to university.
Tongan CHS student Lisiate Sole, fondly known as ‘‘Solly’’ is here on a rugby scholarship, but wants to become a builder.
‘‘I want to stay here in New Zealand and I want to build houses. I want those skills,’’ he said.
Matamata College, Putaruru College, Te Aroha College and Morrinsville College were also involved.
While in Cambridge, the students donned hi-vis vests and visited Wackrow’s Joinery, Brewer Joinery Ltd, Branderson Homes and Carters Frame and Truss plant.
‘‘Our country needs more young people to learn the skills and attributes that are in such high demand.
‘‘School leavers who decide they want to start an apprenticeship can be confident they won’t struggle to get work,’’ BCITO chief executive Warwick Quinn said.
Throughout the country 127 schools and more than 1000 students got involved.