Farmer commits to educating his future work force

 Hargraves takes community responsibility and education seriously. He is the father of two teenage boys at Bream Bay College and the immediate past chairperson on the school's Board of Trustees.

Last year Hargraves took on Year 12 student William Benson as part of a Gateway placement, which sees students earn credits towards NCEA through work experience and hands-on practical learning.

"I'm a fifth generation farmer and I always wanted to be a farmer," says Hargraves. "I was fortunate to have that background. I'm all for exposing the next generation to the lifestyle, especially as there is demand for more educated and skilled workers at all levels across the primary industries."

Hargraves says that Benson, who wants to go into dairy, approached him looking for some real-life work experienced for sector credits. In the past Hargraves has employed students through Ag ITO and Primary ITO and is a registered assessor.

"William worked weekends and I was able to train him up. He completed his credits, and is now a competent relief milker. "

NCEA credits are linked to the Vocational Pathways. Primary Industries is one of the six pathways, which students such as Benson can use to develop an individual education plan and make informed choices about their future.

Benson has done exactly that; he is now enrolled at Telford in the Certificate of Agriculture.

Hargraves says the Vocational Pathways framework can help the employer as much as the student. A student's NZQA Profile clearly shows which pathways they have credits in, which tells the employer whether they are going to be suitable within their industry.

To other farmers thinking about linking with local schools and tertiary institutions Hargraves says, "Go for it. It's great because students are keen. It gives them exposure to the industry without you having to commit to employment. It is cool helping kids achieve and learn, by steering them in the right direction and setting them up for a bright future."