Types of work experience

There are many types of work experience you can do. Some of your options are:

: Electricity supply is one of the industries covered by the Gateway programme

Gateway

Gateway is a school-run work experience programme for Year 11 to 13 students involving one day a week in an industry work placement.
You work on assessments for National Qualification Framework credits that also count towards NCEA.
To get into the programme you need to go through an interview process with your school, then another interview with the employer.
Other programmes similar to Gateway are offered in some schools. Talk to your careers adviser to find out what types of programmes your school may offer.

The school holidays are a great time to get work experiences. They could even lead to your next career.

Here are some ideas for getting holiday and seasonal work experience:

Grocery stores, restaurants and retail stores often hire extra workers in the lead-up to Christmas.
Beach communities and ski fields also thrive during holiday times, making them good places to look for job vacancies.
Horticultural and agricultural industries are often busy during school holidays and may be able to offer you short-term, seasonal work.

"When I was 15 I got a holiday job at a restaurant. At the end of the holiday the chef asked me whether I'd like a full-time job."

Grant Jackson, Chef

This is a type of informal work experience where you are buddied with someone who can show you around a job.
Job shadowing can be organised by you or your careers adviser.
Job shadowing lets you see what a job is like and decide if it’s right for you, and puts you in touch with people already working in an industry.

This type of work experience can be short (one or two weeks) or spread out over a longer period of time, for example, one day every week for a term.
Sometimes on-the-job training is a requirement of tertiary study or trade training.
It is usually unpaid work, but doing it can earn you academic credits.
You would normally do the same hours as other people who work at the organisation.
You may be asked to sign a contract to show that you and the employer agree to what is involved.

Working at a part-time job while you are still at school is a good idea, as long as you can handle your study and other commitments. It means you are earning an income as well as gaining work experience.
Sometimes this work can lead to full-time work when you leave school, as you have built up knowledge, experience and skills.

This is a Year 12 programme where you spend a day at two businesses of your choice.
The work choice day is held nationwide, usually in May.
The employer usually gives a presentation about working in their company or industry and you can try out aspects of the job.
Your school needs to opt into the programme for you to be able to take part. Ask your careers adviser about whether your school is involved or check the Work Choice Trust website for more details.

Taking part in competitions such as science fairs gives you a chance to do some practical work while still at school.
They let you see if you enjoy working in certain areas, and can help build up your skills. Plus, winning a competition would look great on your CV!
Competitions cover subjects like engineering, maths, music and photography.
Check for competitions at Te Kete Ipurangi (TKI) – The Online Learning Centre or ask your careers advisor or teachers.

: First aid volunteering can help you get into health and medical occupations

Volunteering is a great way to gain work experience and learn new skills, while also doing something that helps the community or the environment.
The people you meet during volunteer work may be able to help you find related work, or act as a referee when you apply for paid jobs.