University not the only option

University not the only option

“Secondary students considering their options for next year and beyond might be forgiven for thinking that university was their only option, if recent media reports were to be believed”, said Jeremy Baker, Executive Director of the Industry Training Federation.

“The reality is only 30% of school leavers go to university, and many of them don’t complete their qualifications”, said Mr Baker.

“There are many other – often more suitable – ways to get into to real and practical vocations and careers. These include the broad range of vocational education and training sector options, such as institutes of technology and polytechnics, w?nanga, and private tertiary institutes and providers, all of which offer degree, diploma and certificate level programmes”, added Mr Baker.

“And of course, many industries offer apprenticeships and traineeships where young people can gain skills and knowledge while they work, without the downside of significant student loan debt.

“More than 35,000 businesses and 190,000 apprentices and trainees are involved in industry training every year. Many industries are looking for young people willing to develop their skills on the job, and we encourage secondary students and their parents to examine all the options available.

“A good source of independent information and advice on all these options is the Career Services website:
http://www.careers.govt.nz - this is a great place to start.

ENDS

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