Building new pathways

Students from Pukekohe High School are taking a first-hand look at environmentally sustainable buildings and construction projects in Pukekohe.

A recent field trip to Te Pae Mahara Roulston War Memorial Park was organised through the Building and Construction Pathways programme at Pukekohe High School. The programme uses a mix of in-school learning and real-world experience to help students understand career opportunities in the construction sector.

Ben Silk, head of faculty, social sciences, said the programme offered mentoring and provided something a little bit different for year 12 students.

“Getting the chance to visit sites, to see, touch and experience the work firsthand helps make learning more real and authentic.

“The opportunity to speak with council and contractor reps on site means students got in-depth information about both the park upgrade and the wider construction industry.”

Their studies look at how environmentally sustainable building and construction projects are in Pukekohe Town Centre, using the seven principles of sustainable construction as a basis for analysing different projects.

“Students are much happier coming to school, attendance has improved, and achievements are on track to get NCEA Level 2,” Silk said.

Student Lachlan Colbert told the Franklin Times he wanted to leave school to do a trade.
The Pathways programme offered him a chance to look into sustainable building projects while also getting real experience with a building company.

“I do work experience each week with Pukekohe Builders, and it’s been great gaining on-site experience.”

Some of the work sites included working on the clubhouses at Kariaotahi Surf Life Saving and Pukekohe Golf Course, and a rest home in Botany.

“I’ve gained a lot more skills. Pathways gives me a little bit of a bump into the industry; it’s been a great programme.”

Auckland Council’s contractor for the park upgrade, Lite Civil, took part in the outdoor education session.

Lite Civil project engineer Joseph Knights said he was very supportive of pathway programmes, as they offer valuable insights into the construction industry.

“By stepping outside the more traditional academic framework and providing a real-world, career-focused pathway to success, we can better prepare young adults to be work-ready from the moment they leave school. I believe this increases their employability and gives them a stronger start.

“For construction in particular, young adults with early exposure to industry practices make them better prepared and ready to work in our industry.”

• The upgrade of Roulston Park, now renamed Te Pae Mahara Roulston War Memorial Park, is nearly completed. The playground is expected to be open to the public this spring. The park sits at the corner of Pukekohe’s East Street and Stadium Drive.