Stratford High School student Brayden Fale. Photo/ Supplied
Stratford High School student Brayden Fale. Photo/ Supplied
Taranaki schools are celebrating this year's recipients of the Prime Minister's Award for Vocational Excellence.
Careers and Transition Education Association (CATE) national president and Sacred Heart Girls' College Pathways leader Warwick Foy says the award recognises outstanding students enrolled in vocational programmes.
Hāwera High School student Kayla Ryan. Photo/ Supplied
"They've shown they have what it takes to develop the skills, knowledge and attributes to build a career in industry."
Taranaki Diocesan School for Girls student Ronaele Jones. Photo/ Supplied
Introduced in 2019, the Prime Minister's Award for Vocational Excellence, and the $2000 monetary prize, can be awarded to the top Year 12 or 13 secondary students enrolled in vocational programmes of learning. One student is eligible per school or wharekura.
Inglewood High School student Kodie Sarich. Photo/ Supplied
"Students all over New Zealand excel in building their vocational knowledge and this is one way to recognise them for their success. When we consider tertiary education we normally think of universities, but the majority of our learners enter other forms of tertiary education such as polytechnics, apprenticeships and workplace learning".
Coastal Taranaki School student Phoenix Papa. Photo/ Supplied
The purpose of the award is also to raise the status of vocational education and ensure it is seen as an attractive option for rangatahi as they leave school. Taranaki Futures and CATE Taranaki have cooperated to highlight the award and encourage other regions to follow.
Francis Douglas Memorial College student Ben Hughes. Photo/ Supplied
"This award and collective acknowledgement is one way we recognise the success of all learners and acknowledge the different ways and settings that young people shine."
New Plymouth Boys High School student Zac Andrews. Photo/ Supplied
2021 Taranaki Prime Minister's Vocational Excellence Award Winners: