The sixth annual Get-Go Futures Day was held on Thursday 14th March 2025. Futures Day provides 400 Horowhenua Year 10 students and their teachers the opportunity to visit a range of different employers to understand more about the world of work and explore future local employment options.
This initiative, led by The Horowhenua Company Limited’s (THCL) Get-Go Programme in collaboration with Horowhenua College, Manawatū College, and Waiopehu College, is designed to bridge the gap between education and local employment in our district providing the opportunity to connect classroom learning with real-world careers.
Each year, THCL/Get-Go takes the lead in coordinating this event, working closely with a diverse group of local employers to open their doors to students and offer them a practical glimpse into various industries.
This year’s Futures Day event featured 13 local businesses, including Horowhenua District Council, Pāmu Farms, Muaūpoko Tribal Authority, New Zealand Police (including the 105 Centre), Department of Corrections, Fire & Emergency NZ (FENZ), JB’s Environmental, RJ’s Confectionery, LT McGuinness, Komatsu, Carters and Wayne Bishop Group.
These employers provided hands-on activities, ensuring students could gain direct exposure to the skills, roles, and some of the day-to-day operations of each business.
Get-Go coordinator, Rachel Mason, managed logistics and communication between the schools and businesses. The activities ranged from milking sheds and livestock management at Pāmu Farms to engaging with riot gear. FENZ provided access to their fire station and equipment, whilst Muaūpoko Tribal Authority’s activities incorporated healthcare, youthwork and taiao.
The diversity of experiences provided valuable insights into the local job market, which Horowhenua College Principal Grant Congdon emphasised:
"The Get-Go Futures Day gives students the chance to connect their classroom learning to the real world. It’s often hard for young people to see how what they’ve learnt at school can be applied to jobs."
Students also had the chance to participate in a fun, interactive marketing exercise at RJ’s Confectionery, where they designed their own lollies. This type of hands-on experience, along with the inclusion of competitions and prizes, made the event both educational and enjoyable.
Waiopehu College’s Careers/Gateway Manager, Joanne Holland, shared her enthusiasm for the event:
"Having practical demonstrations was great. The students enjoyed the variety and JB's went above and beyond, providing a morning tea for our students and offering prizes throughout the morning. I can't recommend these workplaces enough; their presentations were engaging and inspiring."
The support from local businesses is crucial to the success of Futures Day. Their commitment to offering these experiences is what makes this event so impactful. THCL’s continued dedication to providing students with valuable exposure to local industries shows their long-term commitment to fostering the next generation of leaders.
Through strong partnerships with local businesses, schools, and the community, THCL ensures that each student leaves Futures Day inspired and informed about the career opportunities available to them right in their own backyard.
