Trades

Teacher in Charge:   Mrs Tracey Ryan
tryan@wdsg.school.nz

The Waikato Trades Academy (WTA) gives students a head start; gaining specific, practical experience and skills in an industry-based setting and the opportunity to move directly into a job or apprenticeship.  Students could then complete further study in their chosen field, on completion of secondary school.

How does WTA work with our Dio timetable?

As a WTA student, you choose the Wintec programme of your choice, alongside your school subjects, and travel to Wintec one day a week for practical, hands-on learning. At Wintec, you will be studying towards an award in a vocational pathway and  can gather Unit Standard Credits for NCEA Level 2 or 3 qualifications.

WTA is a one to two-year programme, with options in the following areas: 

• Service Sector (Exercise Science, Outdoor Experience, Hairdressing, Beauty, Cookery, Cafe Skills)

• Social and Community (Health, Early Childhood Education, Community Services)

• Manufacturing and Technology (Girls in Engineering, Electrical, Mechanical and Automotive Engineering)

• Construction and Infrastructure (Electrical, Plumbing and Building, Landscape Construction and Cultivation, Building and Construction)

Due to restrictions of applicants per school all interested students will need to email Mrs Plaisted before enrolment closes in October. kplaisted@wdsg.school.nz

WTA is primarily for Year 12 or 13 students and works in the following ways:

• You must be 15 or older at the beginning of the year.

• You will continue your secondary school studies and your year of WTA.

• If your chosen WTA offers a two-year programme, you will be expected to enrol in both years.

• You will specialise in one career pathway.  You will attend Wintec one day per week from February to November approximately 32 school days during the year. 

• You will study at Level 2 or 3 and gain between 26 and 30 unit standards credits towards your chosen career pathway. The courses may also include some self-directed learning. Some programmes may include work experience in industry.

• Year 11 students will be considered on a case by case basis in consultation with their Dean and the Senior Leadership Team, and following an interview with the Learning Hub Teacher in Charge.

Graduating from WTA:
After completing the two-year WTA programme you may: 

• Achieve NCEA Level 2 or 3 at school, with a Vocational Pathway Award.

• Enrol into a higher level of study at Wintec, or have the skills to move into an apprenticeship or employment.
  
  

Please visit https://www.wintec.ac.nz/study-at-wintec/secondary-schools/overview for more information.