In the Timaru District, there is a shared ambition to create strong pathways from education into rewarding careers.
As food and fibre, logistics, manufacturing, and supporting services adapt to automation, digital tools, sustainability, and new ways of working, employers need skilled, confident, work-ready people who can move successfully from education into industry.
At Geraldine High School, the Primary Industry Academy (PIA) is a practical, structured model for school-to-work transition. Delivered through the Secondary Tertiary Partnership Trade Academy framework in partnership with Primary ITO, it provides NCEA-aligned, hands-on learning connected directly to industry expectations.
The programme runs during normal school hours, around four hours per week, with students progressing through three levels:
- Level 1 introduces Year 11 students to foundational skills including fencing, water systems, nutrition, welding, and farm bike operation, supported by field trips, competitions, and A&P show engagement.
- Level 2 builds capability through chainsaw, tractor, and fencing training, a weekly workplace placement day, and major experiential learning such as multi-day industry exposure trips, fundraising, and competitive fencing events linked to Fieldays at Mystery Creek.
- Level 3 supports a small group of senior students through advanced Primary ITO papers, including feeding and pastures, with pathways into apprenticeships, tertiary study, or direct employment.
Across all levels, the academy prioritises practical competence, with Level 3 students spending up to 90% of their time in applied, industry-based learning.
Contributing to the success is the academy’s deep integration with industry partners, sponsors, and community organisations. Students access real equipment, mentoring, and workplace environments through contractors, agribusinesses, and training providers, with organisations such as Fire and Emergency New Zealand and New Zealand Police contributing to learning around safety, decision-making, and responsibility.
Beyond technical training, PIA is designed to build character, teamwork, and employability. Students develop leadership, communication confidence, and accountability through expectations on every field trip: asking questions, engaging with professionals, arriving early, helping set up and pack down, and showing respect through handshakes and positive participation.
Team building is reinforced through shared challenges, outdoor expeditions, competitive events, and collaborative problem-solving. Fundraising is also important, with students helping raise about $35,000 annually through activities such as apple picking, tree planting, quiz nights, potato sales, and industry-supported work opportunities. This builds ownership, responsibility, and respect for resources.
Students also contribute back to the wider community by hosting visiting schools, supporting industry events, and delivering training sessions for educators and sector partners.
The outcomes show strong transitions into meaningful pathways. The 2023 intake of 22 students moved into agricultural contracting, dairy and deer farming, fencing apprenticeships, mechanics, horticulture, and further study, demonstrating a range of successful destinations.
PIA is a standout example of how school-based learning, strong industry partnership, and practical experience can strengthen the future primary industries workforce.
Local businesses interested in supporting the next generation of primary industries talent through work placements, mentoring, sponsorship, or training opportunities are encouraged to connect directly with Geraldine High School.
