Launch it – School to Work

For many young people, the best way to discover a career is to experience it. Across the marine and specialised technology sectors, exciting career opportunities often remain out of sight until students step inside a workplace and see the work firsthand.

That's where MAST Academy’s Launch it – School to Work programme comes in. It gives senior secondary students the chance to explore a skilled trade through practical, on-the-job experience while still at school, turning curiosity into real-world opportunities.

How it works

Students in Years 12 and 13 can explore a workplace before committing to a career path. The journey starts with a conversation with a school careers advisor or by connecting directly with a MAST Pathways Consultant. From there, MAST Academy matches each student with an industry employer suited to their interests.

Once placed, students typically spend one or two days a week on the job while attending school on the remaining days. They build new skills and industry knowledge in an area they are passionate about while gaining NCEA credits. These NZQA-approved unit standards can also contribute towards a future MAST Academy apprenticeship.

Industry support that makes a difference

It’s a model that delivers benefits on both sides. Students discover rewarding trade careers and gain early industry experience, while employers connect with motivated, work-ready young people eager to showcase their potential. The programme goes beyond skills training. It helps young people build confidence, discover their potential and see that a fulfilling career can start with a skilled trade.

Skilled trades – Strong futures

Creating pathways from school to industry is a key focus for MAST Academy. Through the Launch it – School to Work programme and other initiatives, the Pathways team connect with schools nationwide through career expos, roadshows, classroom presentations and industry visits, introducing students to careers in the marine and specialised technologies sectors.

A crowd favourite at career expos, MAST’s VR experience allows students to step inside industry environments through immersive virtual reality, while industry tours provide a behind-the-scenes look at businesses in action. Students can also discover future opportunities through MAST’s Virtual Careers Expo an interactive online platform designed more like a game than a traditional information site.