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One of our busiest courts is helping senior high school students to investigate careers in the justice sector through Gateway, a government funded work experience programme where students choose placements based on their interests.
‘Each Thursday our students returned to school beaming from ear to ear and wanting to share their experiences and learning from the previous day,’ says Susanna Sabbage, Teacher, Auckland Girls’ Grammar School. ‘At the conclusion of their placement it was evident they did not want to leave.’
Six students attend the Court each Wednesday over a 6-week period, shadowing our staff in various courts and in the criminal registry. The students met local judges and visited the Manukau Police station custody unit to understand how the process works from when a person is detained and then comes into the court system. The programme included completing work for NZQA unit standards.
‘The experience provided our students with an opportunity to develop professional skills that are transferable and valuable in any business or organization,’ says Susanna.
‘It was great to be able to link in with the local community and showcase the kind of work that the Ministry does, and to provide an insight into possible careers to students in their last year of school,’ says Carl Lewens, Manager – South Auckland Courts.
The students responded very positively with the idea of working for the Ministry, with many saying they would consider courts as a possible workplace.
Manukau District Court is looking to continue the arrangement, and is open to considering similar arrangements with other schools.
Pictured, left to right: Lisa Schwenke (CRO), Flora Pirake-Rauru (CRO), Debbie Stewart (centre, Service Manager), Frances Chalmers (CRO), Lesley Daniels (CRSO) and Susanna Sabbage (far right, Teacher, AGGS) with students from AGGS.
