The Whakatupu Programme is a five-day ‘into construction’ course that equips participants with the critical skills they need to get a job in the sector. The first cohort graduated earlier this month and of the 12 participants, 11 are now either in paid work experience or interviewing for exciting construction roles.

Programme facilitator Maureen Hamahona, couldn’t be prouder.

“The transformation has been amazing. The course participants developed so much confidence, pride and self-belief over the five days. Not only did they build their critical skills, but they developed the growth mindset they needed to transition into the world of work,” says Maureen.

The programme touched on everything from communication skills, time management, and financial literacy to smart goals, dealing with difficult people, and identifying learning barriers. A GoodYarn mental health awareness workshop deepened participants’ understanding in areas such a drug and alcohol awareness and dyslexia awareness, and a number of industry guest speakers (including representatives from Downer, Finesse, Edwards & Hardy Roofing, Vakalahi Construction, Icon Construction and Air New Zealand) provided inspiration and valuable tips for entering the workforce.

“Employers shared their personal journeys of how they got where they are today, talked about what they want from their employees, and did practical sessions on things like interview techniques. The biggest message that came through from every employer was that when an opportunity arises, take it.”

A site visit to Link Alliance gave course participants a glimpse into the game-changing City Rail Link (CRL) project, as well as the chance to try out the training simulators used to prepare new workers for site. And when graduation day rolled around each graduate was presented with a pair of new boots and a high vis vest, their Site Safe certificate, and a GoodYarn mental health certificate – the perfect tools to kickstart their new construction careers.

Feedback from those who completed the course has been overwhelmingly positive, and has included comments like:

“I feel a lot more confident to stand up and introduce myself.”

“I am so glad I attended this workshop and have been able to practise having a growth mindset.”

“It was daunting at first but after doing the course I am now looking forward to moving into employment.”

The Whakatupu Programme has been tailor-made to transition people into work in the construction sector. And given the fact that Auckland will need an estimated 56,000 workers in the next decade to keep pace with demand (according to ATEED research), that’s got to be a good thing.

“Whakatupu means to grow, so the concept of this programme is based on dropping the seed of growth,” explains Maureen.  “We drop the seed but it’s up to each individual if they put it in soil, water it or just throw it out the window.”

Following on from Whakatupu’s success at the City Centre Jobs and Skills Hub, Maureen and the EU team are excited to extend the programme at the North Shore and Manukau Jobs and Skills Hubs too.

Adds Maureen, “I may have been facilitating the course, but its success has very much been an Education Unlimited and Jobs Skills and Hubs team effort. Everyone has played a key role. 

“Te amorangi ki mua, te hapai o ki muri – yes there’s a leader at the front, but the workers behind the scenes are just as important.”