Work experience gives rangatahi hope
“Rangatahi I have worked with didn't even know that some of these businesses existed or they believed that they wouldn't be able to be employed in some of these places. It gives them hope.” - Rosie Poharama-Hepi from Te Hā o Mātauranga – Learning in Kaikoura
Alex Fittzpatrick, 16 was on the Te Hā o Mātauranga – Learning in Kaikoura Youth Employability Programme (YEP). He did his work experience at Road Metals because he’s keen to become a truck driver.
When Road Metals was recently approached by Te Hā o Mātauranga they jumped at the chance to give young people an opportunity to experience what it’s like working in the industry.
As a result, they took on Alex Fittzpatrick, 16, who was on the Te Hā o Mātauranga – Learning in Kaikoura, Youth Employability Programme (YEP). As part of his work experience, Alex washed vehicles, removed debris from gravel piles, and was given driver tuition.
Tim Ford, Operations Manager – Kaikoura, Road Metals says youth employment programmes are a great investment and it’s important to be open to let young people learn about your industry.
As part of his career choice, Alex wants to drive trucks. While at Road Metals, Alex says understanding the rules driving around in the Yard/River is what stuck with him the most. “Like always having your beacons or indicators on and always letting Loaders go first. My Dad is a truck driver, so I think I will like this job too.”
Rosie Poharama-Hepi from Te Hā o Mātauranga – Learning in Kaikoura says work experience gives rangatahi the opportunity to explore what they would like to do as a career. She says it also helps create a positive routine and solidifies the lessons taught in YEP. “If businesses were more involved with youth programmes it would help increase attraction to careers in critical industries in the region. I've noticed rangatahi I have worked with didn't even know that some of these businesses existed or they believed that they wouldn't be able to be employed in some of these places. It gives them hope.”
“We thought it would be a good way to introduce younger people into the industry.” - Tim Ford, Operations Manager – Kaikoura, Road Metals Co Ltd