GBHS working to align new NCEA curriculum with career pathways

CAREER KORERO: Gisborne Boys’ High organised an event to bring employers and teachers together ahead of curriculum changes to NCEA next year. From left are Eruera Ria (Iwi Environmental Management), Henry Mulligan (Turanga Ararau/Ruapani Forestry), Henriatta Ngarimu (EIT Te Pukenga), Esther Richardson (agriculture/science teacher), Jen Mildenhall (BDO), Cherry Hinolan (science teacher), Chick Bridge (Growing Future Farmers), Sara Evans (GBHS Gateway coordinator( and Laura Clark (Growing Future Farmers). Picture by Paul Rickard

Curriculum changes to NCEA were the driver behind an event at Gisborne Boys’ High School this week, to connect local employers and teachers.

The korero was part of a strategic pou, or support, for engagement with community, whānau and iwi that would help as the school worked towards the implementation of the new NCEA Level One standards in 2024, said principal Tom Cairns.

“As we reimagine our curriculum it is vital to listen and reflect on the voices of all of our community to ensure what we are delivering in our classrooms has real meaning and relevance to the community we serve,” he said.

The event was organised by GBHS head of careers Maria Jefferson, and saw a big turnout of employers, trades and providers, including representatives from the New Zealand Navy, Eastland Group, Mātai Research Institute, Ministry of Education and Civil Assist.

“Our focus was on gaining a deeper understanding of the pathways available to our akonga (students) in Tairāwhiti,” Mrs Jefferson said.

“In order to achieve this we want to develop reciprocal and ongoing relationships between the kura and local employers, providers and iwi.

“Ultimately we want to equip our young men with the skills, knowledge and experiences to make informed decisions around their future pathways.”

Students and staff will have the opportunity over the coming months to visit workplaces and to build on relationships with people who are willing to come into classes to talk about their experiences.

One of the questions addressed at the gathering was what skills, knowledge and attitudes employers would like students to learn that would benefit their business or industry.