Information for secondary students and school leavers
Vicky Nath's plan to set himself up for the future
Name: Vicky Nath
Age: 27
Occupation: Apprentice Chef
Lives: Wellington
Q: How did you get into your apprenticeship?
A: My dad used to work here and he arranged for me to start working as a kitchen hand.
Q: Is it usual to progress from being a kitchen hand to doing an apprenticeship?
A: Not really, but I impressed the manager by learning quickly and being in control when left alone in the kitchen during busy times. When my manager offered me to advance my career through an apprenticeship, I was glad to accept that offer.
Q: How do you pay for your apprenticeship?
A: My employer covers all the course costs and I get fully paid even when I am attending theory classes as part of the apprenticeship. I only have to pay for my transport.
Q: What are your future plans?
A: I always want to move one step further in my career. Back in the [Pacific] Islands it's difficult to find opportunities like this. Being in New Zealand, I want to become something and set myself up for old age.
