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.
On this page
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.
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.
Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships provide training while you work.
You can find apprenticeships in many sectors, including the service industry, beauty, tourism and construction.
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:
Helpful links
Take the CareerQuest quiz (external link) - Careers NZ website
Match school subjects to careers (external link) - Careers NZ website
Learn about vocational pathways (external link) - Youth Guarantee website