Career Guidance & Pathways
Career Guidance Advisor
As a team we aim to track the academic progress of all students and to help them make informed decisions about their steps beyond school.
Our team of Whānau teachers supported by Whare leaders and subject teachers and support staff actively support students in making option choices and give guidance on possible career pathways. Requests can be made for one-on-one career guidance sessions. Parents are also encouraged to come in with their child to discuss future pathway options.
Careers guidance can help students to:
- Examine their strengths
- Start exploring possible career pathways
- Research and find resources to help them to make informed choices
- Investigate possible links with future learning providers and the world of work
- Get assistance in writing a CV or in completing tertiary study and accommodation applications and gaining scholarships
- Access possible work experience opportunities
Up-to-date information regarding University open days, scholarships, tertiary courses, apprenticeships and employment pathways is available in our Transitions Office in Gray Block.
Career Pathways
Not sure about your future direction? Our team is here to help. Deidre Coogan, our Gateway Coordinator and Sue Johnston, our Careers Assistant, are available to discuss your options, provide guidance, and help you plan your next steps.
Deidre.Coogan – Gateway Coordinator
Sue Johnston – Careers Assistant
If necessary see Mr Elgar or email kai.elgar@tepaepaeoaotea.school.nz particularly if it involves University or if it involves apprenticeships or work directly, see Mrs Hill Julie.Hill@tepaepaeoaotea.school.nz
Thinking of leaving at the end of Year 11 or 12? Have a chat with your whanau teacher and Whare Leader first. If you are thinking of an apprenticeship, you stand a much better chance if you have achieved Level 2 NCEA and have your required numeracy and literacy credits.
Thinking of university? University Entrance (UE) is the minimum standard for entrance to a NZ university. However, universities and other tertiary providers also offer preparation courses for students without University Entrance or an equivalent qualification. Check carefully with each university. Some students who wish to go to university from Year 12 are also eligible to gain Discretionary Entrance based on outstanding Year 12 results.Check in
Investigating what’s available to you is worth every minute you spend on it, and a little planning will help you make the most of opportunities. All universities and tertiary institutions have open days for Year 11-13 students, and attending these is a great way to get a feel for a particular institution.
It is important that you work out how you are going to fund your study and living costs. Loans help you to pay your course fees from your second year on (current frees free government policy), study materials (e.g., books, computer) and living costs. You may also be eligible for a student allowance. This is a weekly payment that can help with living expenses while you are studying.
You can find out through Studylink: https://www.studylink.govt.nz/
Mr Elgar – Careers Advisor
kai.elgar@tepaepaeoaotea.school.nz
Mrs Johnston – Careers Assitant
Sue.Johnston@tepaepaeoaotea.school.nz
Mrs Hill – Transition Lead
Julie.Hill@tepaepaeoaotea.school.nz
Deidre Coogan – Gateway Coordinator
kai.elgar@tepaepaeoaotea.school.nz
University Open Days
Otago University - 3-4 May 2026
University of Waikato - Tuesday, 22 May 2026
Massey University Manawatū - Wednesday, 5 August 2026
Victoria University Wellington - Friday, 21 August 2026
University of Canterbury - Friday, 28 August 2026
University of Auckland - Saturday, 29 August 2026
Information Evenings
Massey University Manawatū - Tuesday, 10 March 2026 10.30am B8 @ TPOA
University of Canterbury- Tuesday, 26 May 6-8.15pm @ Devon Hotel
Victoria University - Wednesday, 3 June @ 6-7.30pm Plymouth International
University of Auckland - Tuesday, 23 June @ 6-8.15pm Plymouth International
University of Waikato - Wednesday, 30 July 2026
Otago University - 17-18 August @ Taranaki Careers Expo
Connect With Us
