NorthTec Student wins Outstanding Adult Learner Award

Kaitaia-based NorthTec Student wins Outstanding Adult Learner Award

NorthTec automotive student Curtis Mehana was announced as the Far North winner of the Outstanding Learner Award when the Adult Learners’ Week Awards were presented at the Te Ahu Centre in Kaitaia earlier this month.

Curtis was among a number of Kaitaia-based students from NorthTec and other tertiary and adult learning providers nominated for the Adult Learners’ Week/He Tangata Mātauranga award.

There were also five other NorthTec automotive students, two from nursing and one community computing student who also earned commendations.

The Adult Learners’ Week, held from 2-8 September was officially launched nationally with a traditional blessing at Cape Reinga which was attended by 35 people who travelled there by bus. It was organised and hosted by the Far North Rural Education Activities Programme (REAP) and sponsored by AKO Aotearoa and the Adult Community Education Aotearoa.

“Curtis thoroughly deserved his award, for a young man he has been very impressive while studying for his National Certificate in Automotive Industry,” NorthTec tutor Doug Clarke says.

“When he first came to us after studying at his Kura up here (Kaitaia) he was quiet, lacked confidence and he held a low opinion of his learning capabilities. The change in this young man over the 26-week course he attended is amazing because he developed into an outstanding role model for other young people here.

“You can’t complain about a 17-year-old who makes 100% attendance, attains 100% in completing his units, shows he is motivated, and is an enthusiastic learner who supports others and will share his knowledge with others.”
Mr Clarke says Curtis hasn’t decided to rest on his laurels when it comes to furthering his education.

“His application to study architecture at NorthTec in Whangarei is on its way to enrolments, and we’re really pleased this young man is taking the opportunities being presented to him.” Mr Clarke says.

He adds that Curtis wasn’t alone in benefitting from the inspirational day-long event.

“Our oldest automotive student on the course, Jackie Smith, a mature student who persevered through what must have been a difficult learning process, says he was deeply moved by the commendation he received. It was the first time he’d been recognised for anything he has done or achieved.

A number of students from NorthTec’s Rawene Campus also won commendations for their efforts.

Speakers and attendees at the Adult Learners’ Week included the Far North mayor Wayne Brown, Te Tai Tokerau MP Hone Harawira and Frank Greenall from Far North Adult Literacy, and Malcolm Matthews, chair of Far North REAP.

ends

© Scoop Media