Te takahanga huarahi

Navigating pathways

Go from learning to earning. Your path from education to employment.

Pathways are roads that lead you to success

Pathways are the routes learners take on their way to a career.

You can think of a pathway somewhat like a road that leads you from education to employment.

Everyone's pathway is a bit different. Your own will be guided by what you want to do, be or achieve.

Did you know?

  • What you study in school can guide your future.
  • Your NCEA choices can set you up for future study or training.
  • Pathways can involve academic study, practical training, and employment-based learning.
  • University isn't the only pathway to a great career.  

There are many pathways to a bright future

What and even how you study can lead you down different career paths.

There are many pathways that can guide you to a bright future. 

Let's look at some examples.

Pathway examples

Sione

Sione wants to be a marine biologist because he's fascinated by the ocean. He's been learning about marine creatures and plants since he was a little kid

Here's one possible pathway Sione can navigate:

  • NCEA subjects at Levels 1, 2 and 3 that align with his goals, such as Biology, Chemistry, English and Statistics
  • a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in marine science
  • a Master's degree in Marine Biology. 

Tili

Tili wants to be an auto electrician. She loves cars, and her dad taught her a lot about fixing electrical issues in vehicles.

Here's one possible pathway Tili can navigate:

  • NCEA subjects at Levels 1, 2 and 3 that align with her goals, such as Technology, Physics and English
  • New Zealand Certificate in Automotive Electrical Engineering (Level 4).
  • an apprenticeship as an auto electrician. 

Peniasi

Peniasi wants to work in aged care. When his grandma was sick, he enjoyed helping his family care for her. He wants to help other families care for their elderly people.

Here's one possible pathway Peniasi can navigate:

  • NCEA subjects at Levels 1 and 2 that align with his goals, such as Biology, Health and English
  • employment in an aged-care facility
  • earn qualifications while working, such as the New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Level 2).

Your options and potential are unlimited. It's just about finding the right pathway for your dream job.

The cover page of the Rising Stars book

Rising Stars

Learn more about navigating pathways with Rising Stars, a free comic book resource for learners and families.

Discover roads to employment in all sorts of industries, from digital design to film directing. 

Meet some of the Pacific people featured, hear their stories, and download your copy.

Go to the Rising Stars page

Three mechanics are looking at documentation material while working on an engine.

Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships provide training while you work.

You can find apprenticeships in many sectors, including the service industry, beauty, tourism and construction.

Go to the apprenticeships page

A young intern sits at a computer in an office.

Internships

Internships give you a sneak preview into what working at a company or organisation is like.

They also give you valuable work experience.

Learn about internship opportunities for Pacific learners:

Go to the internships page

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