News
The latest from Smart Waikato
SPAN Tale – Max
Max’s career journey had many roadblocks which he was determined to overcome. After feeling like his efforts to find a job were getting him nowhere, he joined the SPAN Boost programme. Check out this SPAN Tale to find out how the SPAN Boost coaches helped Max to overcome challenges and feel confident with his interview skills.
Maia’s SPAN Tale
When she first joined SPAN Boost, Maia was a quiet young 20-year-old wahine who had never worked before but was determined to break into the workforce. Her story shows the positive effects of expanding your skills and experience outside of paid work. Read the full story to hear about her success in landing full time work…
Abbys SPAN Tale
Abby was referred to Smart Waikato’s SPAN Boost programme after an unpleasant experience in her last role knocked her confidence and left her feeling anxious. This resulted in a period of long-term unemployment. The SPAN Boost programme was a chance for Abby to break down these barriers, rebuild her confidence and return to the workforce stronger than before…
St Andrews Mini Careers Expo
Smart Waikato worked with Te Ao o Tamatea St Andrews Middle School to organise an interactive mini-expo model to showcase local jobs and businesses, introduce different career ideas, and connect in class learning to the real world…
Xavier’s SPAN Tale
When Xavier first signed up for SPAN Boost, he had the drive to succeed but needed the right opportunity. A personal tragedy had put a pause on his employment journey, and he found himself on the Job Seekers Benefit longer than he had planned. With a full driver’s license and a great attitude, he was ready to work on getting back on track.
SSEP Launches in the Capital
SSEP Launches in the Capital!Smart Waikato’s Secondary School Employer Partnerships (SSEP) is transforming classrooms today and shaping tomorrow’s workforce, from Waikato to Canterbury, and now in Wellington. This transformation is being driven by passionate advocates...
Emily’s SPAN Tale
Emily’s journey with Smart Waikato’s SPAN Bridging the Gap programme began when her dad referred her, hoping it would be what she needed to regain her spark. At the time, Emily was withdrawn, and anxious – a result of prolonged school bullying. The SPAN team assisted her to rebuild her self-esteem and reconnect with her future…
Kodi’s SPAN Tale
For many, landing a dream job seems like a distant goal, but for Kodi, a young man from Hamilton, it became a reality sooner expected. Kodi was struggling to find his way after leaving school. He spent most his time gaming at home and didn’t know what his next step would be – thats when he was referred to the SPAN Bridging the Gap programme…
Tui’s SPAN Tale
Tui is a friendly, determined young woman who grew up in full immersion Te Reo Māori. She was long-term unemployed and, despite her grit, she found it challenging to secure the employment success she was aiming for – until Smart Waikato’s SPAN Boost stepped in…