As students reach the end of their high school journey, it’s natural they turn to teachers and staff for advice on their next steps. Helping rangatahi transition from NCEA to tertiary and vocational pathways can be a major undertaking.
Ryan Thomas, director of recruitment at the University of Canterbury, says that high school students can face several key challenges when transitioning to university or tertiary education, which can vary depending on a student’s unique circumstances.
“Some of the more common themes I’ve noticed after almost a decade in student recruitment include academic adjustment, social and emotional adjustment, and financial responsibility.
Guiding Students from NCEA to University or Vocational Pathways
“University courses are often structured differently from secondary school courses and will require the students to adopt an approach that includes critical thinking, research, and more independent learning than they’ve experienced previously. The workload can also be much higher despite appearing to be much less on the timetable because of the increase in independent learning.
“Starting university is a big life adjustment for anyone, particularly those who have moved away from their home surroundings to attend university. Building new social networks is key, but it also introduces an additional challenge: how best to balance study with an increase in extracurricular and social activities.
“While many students understand that attending university is an investment in their future, they may overlook the fact that it also represents the first time they will be required to manage their finances while also balancing study and, where applicable, employment.”
Not Just University
University study is not for everyone, or perhaps not the best fit for the student right now. Ryan says that uncertainty is completely normal, as is considering university study in the future.
“The number of adult learners returning to tertiary education is increasing year on year,” he says.
“We should embrace the fact that universities are about life-long learning. Accessibility to university education is key. It is okay if you don’t go to university straight from school.
Key Skills
Some of the skills Ryan mentions as key for students moving up include:
• Time management
• Critical thinking
• Problem-solving
• Study skills
• Collaboration
• Self-advocacy
• Independence
• Digital literacy
• Resilience
• Adaptability
The Role of Advisor
Teachers, career, and pathway advisors are vital sources of information and guidance for students deciding their next steps after school. Ryan says that promoting a sense of self-reflection within students ensures they can confidently explore their interests and strengths.
“Providing accessible information to students around the tertiary pathways available is also strongly recommended and can include relevant websites, videos, sessions with universities, evening information sessions with universities, guest speakers, alumni talks, peer-to-peer discussions and of course, university open days.
“From here, it is important that students are confident and comfortable in discussing the real-work applications of where different education pathways could take them. An important message is that it is okay for students to change their minds, and they absolutely will.
“I encourage parents to really get involved in the decision: share resources, share information, do what you need to do to ensure your young person can make a confident, informed decision for their future.”
