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GRIP Vocational Pathways

Empowering Rangatahi through Vocational Pathways with GRIP


GRIP Vocational Pathways are a way to support youth through tailored education and real-world work experience. Together, we’re shaping the workforce of tomorrow.

GRIP is a Private Training Establishment that has been granted registration by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority under Subpart 5 of Part 4 of the Education and Training Act 2020.

Our programmes integrate learning and real life experience so that ākonga grow through doing, supported by kaiako, employers and our Regional Pathways Advisors.

We believe in pathways that make a difference where ākonga learn. Each GRIP Gateway Programme combines real workplace learning with NZQA aligned unit standards.

Every ākonga is supported by a Regional Pathways Advisor who works alongside the employer and school to guide, monitor and celebrate progress — through doing, growing through experience, and feeling proud of who they are becoming.


Our Industry Partners

Our Programmes

GRIP’s programmes are designed to support Rangatahi at every step of their vocational journey. Whether you’re just starting with NCEA Level 2 or advancing to Level 3, our pathways integrate learning and real-life work experience, empowering you for the future.

With GRIP, students are on a journey to experience careers or industry sectors. Our team are on this journey with them to facilitate, assist, and support.

Site Notice: Our Gateway Programme pages are currently under development and will be updated shortly

Level 2 Gateway Programme

Ideal for students progressing to NCEA Level 2 or continuing their GRIP journey, this programme builds valuable skills required for success in the workplace. Take the next step towards your career goals.

Site Notice: Our Gateway Programme pages are currently under development and will be updated shortly

Our

Reviews

"We are very supportive of the Industry Pathways GRIP provides our students. The service provided by the Kaitohutohu Whakawhitinga Kura are consistently outstanding and are invaluable in the operation of our Gateway programme."

— Ao Tawhiti Unlimited Discovery

Our students have thrived under Carolyns tutelage, with many securing part time employment in the service industry following their placements. In particular, we really appreciate your willingness to go above and beyond with the one or two students who required additional support.

— Western Heights High School

Our experiences over the years with you and Kirsty have had fabulous outcomes for our students. We always feel supported and trust you give the best opportunities for our ākonga. Some of these experiences they have had while working with your team have been truly life changing for them.

— Tamaki College

Students received warmth, support, and the greatest care from GRIP. Students achieved with pride while on the programme, as GRIP instilled in them to be motivated to succeed. We are grateful to GRIP.

— Glenfield College

Our students have the best experience with Heamoni. She wraps support and learning to ensure they reach the potential not even they can see in themselves. We would not have been able to reach the outcomes we have over the years without this team and the programmes they offer.

— De La Salle

Level 3 Gateway Programme

While it’s beneficial for students to first complete our Level 2 programme, it’s not compulsory. Level 3 gives students the confidence to enter the workforce full-time with real-world experience through its extensive coverage.

Site Notice: Our Gateway Programme pages are currently under development and will be updated shortly

about us

Our Team, Story and Values

While it’s beneficial for students to first complete our Level 2 programme, it’s not compulsory. Level 3 gives students the confidence to enter the workforce full-time with real-world experience through its extensive coverage.

FAQs

GRIP - Generating real industry pathways

How do schools sign up for GRIP’s programmes?

If your school is new to our Gateway programmes and would like more information, contact your local Regional Pathways Advisor. Click here to find your RPA. They will provide details on the Gateway programmes available in your area and supply all the necessary documents to prepare your students for our fully supported programmes.

What industries do GRIP’s pathways cover?

Currently we have solid pathways into the Services Industry.  This includes Retail, Tourism, Hospitality and the Accommodation Sectors.

We also work in partnership with Motor Trade Association(MTA) which offers pathways in the fuel sector.

I’m a local business, how do I start the process to become a business partner?

To get started, contact our Managing Director, Kelly Randle. Kelly will discuss options tailored to your business needs and explore opportunities to create a successful Gateway experience for both students and your staff.

Contact details:

Email: kellyr@industrypathways.co.nz

Phone: 027 4917 987

You can also check out our document hub for more helpful information

What level of commitment is required from businesses?

Your commitment involves providing a meaningful workplace experience that demonstrates a viable pathway into your industry within a short timeframe.

While our team will handle most aspects of the Gateway programme to lighten the responsibilities on you and your staff, you will play an essential role in:

  • Verifying and ensuring students complete their on-site assessment tasks.
  • Preparing your site for students, including planning rosters and briefing your staff on how hosting a Gateway student can positively contribute to their department.

Good news, you won’t need to manage the details alone. Our team will develop a programme tailored to your business needs and provide ongoing support to ensure the process is seamless, collaborative, and beneficial for everyone involved.

Can students earn NCEA credits in these programmes?

Yes. Students will complete a set of unit standards alongside workplace experience with an industry partner. These credits count toward NCEA and align with the Vocational Pathways' six broad industry groupings. This approach helps students develop a clear pathway toward further study, training, or employment.

Do students need prior experience to join a programme?

Not all Gateway programmes require prior experience.

  • For Level 2 programmes, students must be able to follow instructions, complete the unit standards included in the programme, and work independently in the workplace.
  • For Level 3 programmes, industry experience is not always required but can be beneficial. For example, understanding or demonstrating good customer service can make it easier to complete programmes in customer-facing or team-oriented workplaces.

If a programme has specific prerequisites, these will be clearly outlined in the programme information. Your Regional Pathways Advisor will also assess your suitability for the chosen programme before registration.