I'm at school and need ideas

Not sure what to do next?

No clue what you want to do after school, or have you got too many options to choose from? Learn more about your options, how to move forward with your plans, and how to talk with your parents about careers.

Thinking about leaving school?

If you are thinking of leaving school before the end of Year 13, there are many options to consider - and many decisions you will need to make. Having a plan of what you will do after you leave school will help you through the change, and may persuade your parents and whānau that it's a good idea!

Youth Guarantee programme

If school isn't working for you, you may be able to do some free hands-on tertiary courses through the Youth Guarantee programme.

Taking a gap year

A year off - or gap year - after secondary school is becoming more common in New Zealand. Find out what you can do during your gap year, and the advantages and disadvantages of taking time out.

How work experience can help with career choices

Different options for the types of work experience you can do

A step-by-step guide to getting work experience

Applying for work experience is very similar to applying for a job. Follow these steps to gain valuable work experience:

Talking to parents about careers

You may not like the thought of talking careers with your parents, because you think they won't like your ideas, or they might try to tell you what to do. But if you take the time to talk to your parents, you may find that they can play a useful role in helping you to make decisions.

Career Stories

A collection of video stories from young people who have had to make career decisions.

Related links

• Choosing school subjects - what you need to think about
• How to get ideas for your career - come up with job possibilities to explore
• What are your study and training options?
• Choosing a tertiary course - what you should consider
• Workplace training and apprenticeships