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STAR and Gateway at NZSE

Get a head start on your future — while you’re still at school.

STAR and Gateway programmes at NZSE College are designed to help rangatahi explore career pathways and gain confidence in a supportive, hands-on learning environment. These programmes challenge students in the right ways — combining practical learning with clear next steps into further study or employment.

Through STAR and Gateway programmes in ATC Military Prep, Health, and Education, students can explore areas of interest, gain NZQA credits, and open pathways into tertiary study, work placements, apprenticeships, or employment.

Group of young students NZSE

Discover your passion

STAR (Secondary Tertiary Alignment Resource) programmes give secondary school students the chance to try out tertiary-style learning while still at school. Students can take part in short courses or “taster” experiences — whether over a few days, one day a week, or across a longer period — to explore career pathways, learn more about an industry of their choice, and discover what’s next after high school. Gateway programmes take learning further through structured, work-based experiences. Students learn on the job while earning credits towards industry-recognised unit standards, gaining real insight into what a workplace is like and building skills that employers value. Together, STAR and Gateway help students make informed choices about their future.

General programme information ​

School and community connections

Connection sits at the heart of what we do. NZSE works closely with schools, whānau, and community groups across Aotearoa, including Māori and Pasifika communities, to support learners at every stage of their journey.

Our team regularly visits schools to talk with students about career pathways. Through strong industry connections, students can access meaningful work experience and practical learning before they graduate.

Keen to connect? Get in touch to find out how NZSE can support your students to take their next step with confidence.

Explore NZSE’s STAR and Gateway programmes

Te Kura Whakahōia (ATC)
ATC Military Prep

A career in uniform is a commitment to service, leadership, and protecting our communities. From defence and security to corrections and emergency services, these roles offer a true sense of purpose, pride, and belonging. Each year, ATC students flourish in NZSE’s atmosphere of military-style training, achieving academic, physical, and vocational heights they never thought were possible.

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Designed for students who are curious about health and helping others, our programmes introduce the skills, responsibilities, and pathways within the healthcare sector. Learners explore what working in health can look like, practise basic, real-world skills used across a range of roles, and discover the value of supporting community wellbeing.

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Curious about working with children? Educators play a vital part in supporting the growth and wellbeing of young children. NZSE’s STAR and Gateway programmes in Early Childhood Education provide a practical introduction to early childhood education, helping students understand daily routines, learning through play, and the role educators play in supporting tamariki.

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