Careers Advice

CAREERS ADVICE

Through the Career Education programme at Pakuranga College, students will develop a range of career management competencies that enable them to confidently take their next steps within and beyond Pakuranga College and to successfully manage career decisions and life opportunities.

The focus of the Careers and Transition Department is to explore opportunities and to help students find the best first step beyond school.  We work with students from Years 9 - 13 and offer:

• Career education
• Careers advice
• Careers counselling
• Gateway (work experience programme) 

Students can come to the Careers and Transition Department to get help with:

• Career research
• Subject selection
• Advice on entry into tertiary courses
• Tertiary presentations (university and private provider)
• Taster days/experience days at tertiary institutions
• Goal setting and academic mentoring
• Assistance with applications to tertiary institutions 
• Assistance with scholarship applications 
• Assistance in finding part-time employment 
• CV preparation and interview skills 

What to Expect 

Whilst we deliver workshops and presentations, we ultimately believe in an individual approach.   Working with students one-on-one is the best way to provide timely and personalised career advice.

Students in Y11-13 can expect to have an individual career interview during the year, whilst junior students will participate in a series of careers education lessons.  Students across all year levels are encouraged to self-refer as an when the need arises.  Students can make an appointment through SchoolPoint.  We also welcome contact with parents and caregivers to discuss students’ career needs.  The Careers and Transition Department is located near the front of the school on the lower floor of Rae Block.

Ms Sarah O’Neill (Careers Advisor & Head of Dept.)        (09) 534 7159 ext 761

Mrs Tascha Corlett (Careers Advisor )                                 (09) 534 7159 ext 762

Advice to Junior Students 

If you do not have a career in mind, don’t panic.  Most students do not make up their minds until much later. However, it's good to start thinking about what you might like to do.  Reflect on the subjects that interest you and discuss your strengths and values with your family.  Remember to 'favourtie' job ideas in SchoolPoint as you research and explore future possibilities.  It is wise to keep your choices broad in Year 11.  Having too much of a narrow focus now may limit your choices in Years 12 and 13.

Advice to Senior Students 

Be sure to join our 'Future Focus' google classroom page and keep track of upcoming  presentations and guest speakers using the SchoolPoint calendar.  If you have a particular career in mind, you can get information on how to prepare at www.careers.govt.nz. 

2024 Subject Flow Chart  

For a list of 2024 subjects please click here