Gateway

What is ‘Gateway’?

‘Gateway’ is a programme funded by the Government through the Tertiary Education Commission.  It is available to colleges, who apply to TEC and are approved as worthy of such a scheme.  It is about introducing students to careers and job opportunities that they have an interest in, during their final year/s of college.  This is done by placing the student in a place of work for one day a week, for the entire school year, where they not only gain experience, but industry unit standards.

What are the aims of ‘Gateway’?

While the majority of student who come onto the programme are looking at leaving school and entering the workforce after their final year, it can also work well for those students looking to pursue a tertiary course of study.  In the case of a student who is planning on leaving college and entering the work-force at the end of the school year, it gives them the opportunity to get placed in that area of work, and to get an idea of what they can expect.  Also, for example, in the case of a student interested in building, they can begin industry unit standards during the year as they work, and are better prepared for entering apprenticeships at the end of the year.

For a student who is unsure of what tertiary career they want to pursue when they finish their school year, it enables them to be placed at their area of interest so that they can see what it really involves.  The beauty of ‘Gateway’ is that, if half way through the year, they decide they want to investigate their other option, we can amend their placement.

Compulsory Components of ‘Gateway’

For a student to be registered with TEC once accepted on our course, there is a requirement that the student must complete 12 credits minimum during their placement.  This must include 6100, 6101 and 6102 – First Aid training, which is provided through school.  2005 was Chanel’s first year in this programme, and in 2006, the selected students will be required to complete these units before they can begin any placement – 100% attendance!!!  The rest of their credits will be made up of the units they cover during their work-based learning.

How do I apply, and what do I have to do?

There are only limited spaces each year, so there is an application process – Yr 11 – 13, although Yr 12-13 are given preference.  This involves filling out a form, and having an interview with Mrs Devine, Ms Wensvoort, yourself, and one of your parents.  You will need to have some idea of what you want to do, and be focused.  It is not an easy option out for a day off school – you are required to catch up on all work during your delegated ‘Gateway’ subject periods, complete a weekly diary, have full attendance at school, be a reliable, honest student, have the permission from your parents and your Dean, and have a reasonable report from your previous year.  Applications will be requested in September – please wait for further information, as we will keep you posted!

“Chanel College – opening the Gateway to your future …”