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04 October, 2024
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Rangatahi Māori from across Waitaha stepped into simulated hospital wards, tried on imaging gear, and connected with Māori health professionals on Wednesday as part of Ara Institute of Canterbury’s new pilot programme Ara Rewa.
Designed for Year 11 to 13 students - and their career advisors - the one-day initiative offered a hands-on introduction to careers in nursing, midwifery, and medical imaging. With just 30 places available, the programme focused on personalised, targeted support.
Highlights included nursing and midwifery workshops led by Ara tutors where tauira were taught the basics from hospital-grade handwashing to taking pulse rates and temperatures. A lunch session allowed time for kōrero with Māori students currently enrolled in health programmes, before the students were walked through Ara’s medical imaging suite.
Students also learned about the holistic support services available at Ara, including funding options, wellbeing resources, and academic support tailored to Māori learners.
Blair Kaad, Ara’s Manager of Community and Outreach Marketing, says the pilot reflected Ara’s commitment to empowering rangatahi Māori and strengthening their pathways into the health workforce.
Te Kura Tuarua o Horomaka (Hillmorton High School) Careers assistant Michelle Blake said it had been a valuable experience.
“It’s been a cool opportunity for these students get out of their comfort zones, mingle with others and see what Ara offers in terms of study and support,” she said. “Especially for those who are unsure what a study environment like this is like,” she said.
It’s been a cool opportunity for these students get out of their comfort zones
- Te Kura Tuarua o Horomaka
Ara Rewa is just the beginning, with potential to spark a new wave of kaupapa-driven outreach across Ara.