How Skills Update is securing young lives

Skills Update Training Institute Mangere, Papakura and Kelston

If you're aged between 16 and 19 and have ever considered a job in security, the National Certificate in Security qualifications at Skills Update could be the stepping stone to exciting job prospects in a high-growth industry. With the Auckland economy booming, there is an ever growing requirement of qualified staff in a number of roles that include event security, patrol security, retail security, community security, bar door work or employment as a bodyguard.

What's more, the Levels 2 and 3 programmes are free to eligible teenagers under the Youth Guarantee scheme and you'll get a travel allowance as well.

Zaya from Henderson is among those students who have taken advantage of the course to brighten their job prospects. The 20 year old says Skills Update is just what she needed to get her life back on track. "This is way better than school," she explains. "It's more like a family where you can relax and study at your own pace. Our tutor explains everything in an easy to understand manner and the course is flexible so I can juggle studies and family commitments."

Zaya is currently exploring a number of options before she enters the job market.

Quinton Te Ahu from Sunnyvale shares Zaya's positive outlook. "Initially I found the going hard, but with support from my tutor I carried on. I now enjoy coming to class because I know I'll have a great job at the end of it," says the 17 year old.

Tutor Garry Miller agrees both Zaya and Quinton have become more confident, disciplined and focussed individuals compared to when they started. "It doesn't matter what shape they come in, when they leave they are transformed individuals," he says.

A retired police sergeant who joined the Police in 1969, Garry currently volunteers with the Maori, Pacific and Ethnic Services division, training tomorrow's police recruits through the Auckland Safety Community Patrol.

He says the course is challenging and that's why the students love it. "Plus they know it's a good industry to be in."

And he assures: "If they show the dedication to succeed, I can guarantee them a job."

To learn more about the programmes, call Skills Update on 0800 00 00 55. Visit www.skillsupdate.co.nz. Find out more!