Success Stories
Healthcare
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Health Care Assistant
I learnt numerous skills during this online course through Ignite which has helped set me up to work in the healthcare industry. Throughout my year of study I was able to learn various skills and then apply them in my work setting. This gave me more confidence in the workplace.
I was able to gain teamwork skills and an understanding of how essential this is when working in the healthcare profession. It is important to understand that everyone we meet is an individual with their own previous life experiences and to not bring judgement or bias into the work environment. Having a strong team will in turn create a better outcome for the patient and a healthy work environment.
I really enjoyed this online course at Ignite Colleges and I loved the papers, especially the ‘Dementia papers’ and ‘Challenging Behaviours’. My tutor Jessie was an amazing tutor and always readily available to contact if required.
Kate Bruce
NZ Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Advanced Care & Support) Level 4 - Online -
Healthcare Assistant, Middlemore Hospital /Bupa Hayman Care Home
“Prior to enrolling at Ignite Colleges, I spent many years as a full-time caregiver for my parents, providing 24 hour care with the rehabilitative, palliative and hospice stages of their lives. My mother encouraged me to return to study, even accompanying me to evening classes at another learning institute. After her passing in 2018, I enrolled on Ignite’s Health and Wellbeing Level 3 course. My mother taught me how to be an empathetic and efficient caregiver, but my Ignite healthcare tutors empowered me with the knowledge and understanding to make a meaningful difference in someone’s life – one that’s consistent with their cultural beliefs and health needs. The tutors support and their genuine interest in my learning enabled me to apply my new skills to real-life situations during my clinical placement.
“My goal was to become a qualified healthcare assistant and find employment. Ignite Colleges helped me achieve that by offering flexible study options and a range of teaching strategies that accommodate students’ different learning styles and embrace their cultural differences. By attaining my Level 3 qualification, I secured employment with Middlemore Hospital and Bupa Hayman Care Home as a casual healthcare assistant. As a casual employee I can fit my shifts around the Level 4 studies which I am currently completing at Ignite.
“Working in two different healthcare settings gives me a wider scope to utilise my skills and apply my learning. I enjoy all aspects of my job, especially working with staff who mentored me as a student and are now my senior peers. I’m grateful to work alongside a fantastic group of people who continue to support me and share their knowledge.
“Studying at Ignite has brought far greater rewards than just a qualification - I’ve also grown on a personal level and gained a more positive perspective. Ignite staff helped guide me through a difficult period, contributing to my transition from new student to a confident, self-assured individual. I am so grateful for their invaluable assistance, guidance and culturally friendly learning environment.”
Chantelle Va’aga
NZ Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Advanced Care & Support) Level 4 -
Healthcare Assistant, CHT Hillcrest Mangere
“Getting back into study mode after many years out of the classroom was a big challenge, but it was well worth the effort. I loved studying healthcare at Ignite Colleges – the teachers are knowledgeable, the facilities are great, and I’ve made so many new friends. I particularly enjoyed learning about Maori and Pasifika cultures and beliefs, and the practical training was invaluable. In fact, that’s how I got my current role as a healthcare assistant at CHT Hillcrest Mangere. I worked there for my clinical placement and they ended up offering me a job!
“I’m really enjoying my role. I like dealing with different cultures, backgrounds and attitudes and responding to people’s concerns. Caring for the elderly is challenging work, but it’s also extremely rewarding because they really appreciate you. Ignite taught me a lot about empathy, teamwork and being accountable, and these are skills that help me at work every single day. “I’m so glad I studied at Ignite. Thanks to them I now have my Level 4 qualification and a good job. They really care about their students’ futures. I would recommend this college to anyone.”
Shirley Farrar
NZ Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Advanced Care & Support) Level 4 -
Healthcare Assistant, CHT Hillcrest Mangere
“I used to be a baker but I’m passionate about helping the elderly and encouraging them to live a happy life, so I decided to pursue a career in the healthcare sector. I gained my Level 3 qualification through another provider and this year I completed Level 4 at Ignite Colleges. I really enjoyed my studies there. I was given so many opportunities and my tutor was absolutely awesome.
“In fact, thanks to Ignite I have now got my first job in healthcare, working as a healthcare assistant at CHT Hillcrest Mangere. I went there for my Level 4 clinical placement and after three weeks they offered me a job. I’m really enjoying it. I love having the opportunity to help people, I’ve got a great team, and I’m learning new things every day. This year I want to keep working and building my experience, and next year I’m thinking of continuing to upskill and studying pharmacy.”
Mandeep Kaur
NZ Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Advanced Care & Support) Level 4 -
Healthcare Assistant, Middlemore Hospital
“I originally trained as an accountant but since leaving India many years ago I have diversified. I’ve cleaned factories and restaurants; I’ve worked in logistics and as a life insurance agent. I also spent ten years working in customer service for Auckland Transport. I’ve lived in both Australia and New Zealand, and last year I joined the healthcare industry, working as an orderly at Middlemore Hospital. I lost my wife in 2017 and I enjoy the opportunity to connect with and help people.
“After starting at Middlemore, I wanted to learn more, so I decided to upskill while I worked. I enrolled at Ignite Colleges and gained my Level 3 NZ Certificate in Health and Wellbeing. I enjoyed the course very much and my tutor was very good. I work full-time at Middlemore so was working nights and studying during the day. It wasn’t a problem though – sometimes we must make sacrifices to get where we want to go.
“Now I’m about to start my Level 4 studies at Ignite and have been promoted to Healthcare Assistant at Middlemore. I’m looking forward to learning more about health in class and continuing to help people in my new role.”
Isidore Gomes
NZ Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Advanced Care & Support) Level 4 -
Healthcare Assistant, CHT Hillcrest
“When I was younger my dream was always to become a nurse, but it’s not such a great job back in the Islands and my brothers didn’t want me to pursue it. Since moving to New Zealand in 1999 that dream has stayed alive. I did some volunteer work in a rest home, spent four years working as an educator for home-based early childhood care, and have been a stay at home mum to my children aged 6 and 9, but last year I started thinking about nursing again.
“I felt like so many things were holding me back though. I felt too old and worried that my English wasn’t good enough. I decided to look for a college where the teachers and students might help me. My neighbour used to study at Ignite Colleges and she encouraged me to enrol, so I signed up for Level 3 Healthcare. I’m so happy I did! The teachers are friendly, helpful and nice, in fact my tutor Sheila is the best teacher I’ve ever had. I used to find it so hard to communicate in English and I felt really scared to try, but she didn’t mind my broken English, and she encouraged me to speak and write more. My English is so much better now.
“During my Level 3 course my classmate and I did our clinical placements at CHT Hillcrest, and by the end of our first week they told us that they wanted to employ us after the placement finished. So now I’m working there as a casual healthcare assistant and my boss is going to work my shifts around my Level 4 studies. It’s perfect! I can’t wait to get started on Level 4 as I love applying everything I’m learning in class to my job. It’s really good to know that what you are doing at work is exactly the right thing. People say healthcare is a hard job, but it’s not hard so long as you have the right skills, knowledge and understanding. It’s actually incredibly rewarding.”
Luisa Pau'u
NZ Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Advanced Care & Support) Level 4 -
Healthcare Assistant, Starship Children's Hospital
“After finding out about Ignite Colleges on Facebook I decided to give studying a go. I’d been a stay-at-home mum for a long time, but once my youngest started day care I felt ready to do something for myself. Initially I was just planning to do Level 2 – in fact I was so nervous that I wasn’t even sure I could manage that! But my tutors were so supportive and encouraging that I ended up staying on for Level 3 and 4 as well!
I loved studying at Ignite. The tutors explained things in a way that was easy to understand, and they were always there to offer help and support. I really enjoyed all the placements we did, working in local rest homes. After I finished my Level 4 placement, I applied for a job at Starship, and I got it!
I really feel like I’m in the right place now – I love helping the mums there, as a lot of them really need good support. I have twins who were born premature and were in neonatal for two months, so I have been in their shoes and understand how they feel. Working in Starship is sad, but it is amazing too.”
Aizna Khan
NZ Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Advanced Care & Support) Level 4 -
Healthcare
Healthcare Assistant, Middlemore Hospital
"Back in Samoa I was a registered nurse, but to find a good healthcare job in New Zealand I needed to get a New Zealand-recognised qualification. That’s why I came to Ignite Colleges. I really enjoyed the course, especially learning more about different cultures and getting fresh ideas on how to help and support the elderly and the sick.
I have just graduated from Ignite and I am about to start working as a Healthcare Assistant at Middlemore Hospital. I am excited to be building my experience as a healthcare professional here in New Zealand, and to have the opportunity to provide support to people in need. My goal is to keep working my way up in the healthcare sector."
Ipuniueaea Imo
NZ Certificate in Health and Wellbeing Level 2 -
Caregiver, Bupa Erin Park Care Home
“Before coming to Ignite Colleges I was a full-time mum and housewife. Now I have a great job as a caregiver at one of the rest homes I worked for on clinical placement. Every day I’m learning new things and upgrading my skills and knowledge and I love talking to my elderly patients and providing them with quality care. I’m so thankful to Ignite and my tutors for equipping me with everything I needed to achieve my employment goals.
“Ignite is a really good place to study. The tutors are very encouraging and always happy to help out on a one-to-one basis. In fact, the entire Ignite team provides fantastic support. It’s a fascinating environment to study in – Ignite is very multicultural and they always have lots of cultural get togethers. I really enjoyed that, as it gave me the opportunity to learn about different cultures. I also learnt a lot about caring for elderly people, how to approach them and talk to them, and the importance of treating everybody equally. We did a lot of work around policy and procedures and the Code of Rights. It’s vital that I know my patients’ rights so that I can advocate for them.
“All the skills I learnt during my Ignite studies are so useful at work. I make sure that health and safety is practiced at all times and that all the proper equipment is used. The study we did around communication has proved invaluable - good communication skills are crucial in order to provide the best quality care.”
Poonam Lingam
NZ Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Advanced Care & Support) Level 4 -
Healthcare Assistant, Middlemore Hospital
“I worked for over six years in a rest home/hospital but stopped work when I had my kids. Once they were both old enough to go to kindergarten I decided it was time for me to do something, so I enrolled at Ignite Colleges to gain my Level 4 healthcare qualification.
“Studying at Ignite was good. All the tutors were really nice and even though I already had lots of industry experience, I learnt a lot. I already knew about the daily care of patients, but Ignite taught me stuff like CPR, plus I got my first aid certificate. Basically, Ignite filled in all the gaps for me.
“As soon as I applied at Middlemore Hospital they offered me a job. I got it first shot! I’ve been there for six months now and I really enjoy it. The hours are flexible and it works in really well with my kids, who I have put into the Middlemore day care.
“Eventually my goal is to become a registered nurse, possibly a physio, but I need to wait until the kids are both at school before I start studying for my degree. In the meantime, I’m really enjoying building my experience at Middlemore.”
Ashika Rangini
NZ Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Advanced Care & Support) Level 4 -
Senior Caregiver, Bruce McLaren Retirement Village
“Before coming to Ignite I’d been working in the healthcare sector as a caregiver and community support worker for about 20 years. I was a senior caregiver in the dementia unit at Bruce McLaren when I enrolled for Level 4. I wanted to upskill myself and learn everything I possibly could about the body and brain.
“It was quite full-on juggling my full-time job with my studies, and I also have a family to look after, but the Ignite tutors were really supportive, and I made some really great friends. We had a good mix of onsite and offsite activities which kept things interesting, including trips to the NZ Aids Foundation and the lab at MIT.
“When you start, you think you know everything, but you don’t – there’s so much more to learn. Studying at Ignite Colleges taught me a lot, and that really hit home to me recently as I watched one of my dementia patients deteriorate and sadly pass away. Thanks to my studies I understood all the different stages his body and mind were going through. That’s when the leadership, culture and holistic expertise I gained at Ignite really proved its value. Everything I learnt at school went straight into practice.
“Looking back on it, if Ignite didn’t build that foundation for me, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”
Victoria Nand
NZ Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Advanced Care & Support) Level 4 -
Community Support Worker
“I always knew I wanted to become a paramedic, but I left school early because it wasn’t helping me achieve that. I had a break, did some teenager stuff and then decided it was time to get my life back on track and gain some qualifications.
“I was doing home care at the time and I thought I knew everything, but once I enrolled at Ignite, I realised I didn’t! The course was really good and I learned a lot. Ignite got me into study mode and really recharged my brain. Originally all it was for me was a pathway to AUT to study paramedicine, but through my time at Ignite I realised that I also really enjoy caregiving. Ignite had lots of holistic papers and we also delved into the Maori cultural side. My studies have taught me to be more compassionate and loving with patients.
“Currently I’m working as a community support worker, mostly caring for patients with spinal injuries, and next year I’ll continue on with my studies at AUT. In three years’ time, I’ll be 24 years old and a qualified paramedic. I’m excited!”
Leonie Boggust
NZ Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Advanced Care & Support) Level 4 -
Private Caregiver
“I’ve always had a passion for helping people. I didn’t finish high school but studying Level 2 Healthcare at Ignite was a great bridging course for me, as it filled in the gaps from school. It was really hard at first, but once I got into the swing of it, I really started to enjoy it. At Ignite, you are not expected to know anything, and the tutors give you really good hands-on help. Even after you graduate, they keep in touch to make sure you are going ok.
“Before enrolling at Ignite I was doing absolutely nothing. I’d been a stay-at-home mum for about eight years, and I’d done a few other things like working at McDonald’s and helping out at my daughter’s day care. I wasn’t originally planning on completing my Level 3 and 4, but I enjoyed my Level 2 studies so much I couldn’t leave. Plus, Level 4 gives you the pathway into university and my goal now is to become a nurse, and eventually go overseas and do aid work. It’s amazing to see what a difference you can actually make to people’s lives.
“Ignite gave me a lot of confidence. For eight years I was just a mum, hanging out with other mums. Then when I started my course, I had no choice but to talk to people and come out of my shell. It was so worth it though – I’ve built lifelong friendships here. By studying at Ignite, I haven’t just gained a certificate or a better rate of pay, I’ve also gained a family.”
Jessica Anderson
NZ Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Advanced Care & Support) Level 4 -
Healthcare
Caregiver, Erin Park Care Home
“My Ignite health studies have helped me a lot with everything I have accomplished so far… learning about what elderly people in our community go through as they age and the conditions that come with age.
“Prior to enrolling at Ignite I was a student at Te Wananga O Aotearoa doing my Bachelor of Teaching Primary School, but I wanted to learn about caring for the elderly. My Ignite studies were awesome. The skill and knowledge I gained prepared me to deliver quality service in my workplace, be professional, confident, and work effectively.
“I completed my Level 3 placement at Erin Park and now I’m working as a caregiver there. It’s my first proper job in the sector and I’m really enjoying it. Eventually my goal is to become a registered nurse.”
Losaline Otukolo
NZ Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Advanced Care & Support) Level 4 -
Home Care Support Worker, Metlifecare Powley
“Healthcare has always been one of my passions. I really enjoy working with elderly people - they’re so vulnerable and that makes me want to help them. I actually used to work in the sector many years ago but stopped when I got pregnant. I’ve got four kids now and am recently separated. Being a single mum is hard, and you’ve got to try to upskill and climb your way up. That’s why I enrolled at Ignite Colleges.
“At the start it was quite hard to get my brain into study mode, but it has also been very exciting. I’ve loved learning about the different conditions, the aging process and all the things that elderly people face in life. Parts of the course, particularly in Level 4, go quite deeply into the science side of things, which really interests me.
“The tutors here are awesome. They deliver the course in a way that’s easy to understand, so you can really grab it and run with it. They’re extremely considerate of who they have in their class and are very respectful and understanding of people’s different backgrounds.
“Another big drawcard for me was the fact that at Ignite, you get to go on practicum not just in Level 4, but also in Level 3. Not every school offers this. For my Level 3 placement I worked in a rest home and hospital in Mt Eden as a caregiver. That experience – along with the reference they gave me – helped me get the job I have now.
“I really love being a support worker, and truly feel like I’m one of the blessed ones. Initially I wanted to become a registered nurse, but I am actually really happy where I am. I never struggle to get out of bed in the morning because I love my job and look forward to going to work. If it wasn’t for Ignite Colleges, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”
Taka Posini
NZ Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Advanced Care & Support) Level 4 -
“I’ve always wanted to work in the healthcare sector as I really admire nurses and healthcare assistants. I’ve got a real passion for looking after people in need, and my long-term goal is to become a registered nurse. Currently I’m doing my six-week Level 4 placement, working as a healthcare assistant at Hayman Rest Home and Hospital, where I’m learning to help residents with their daily activities like showering and feeding. That’s the final part of my course before graduating – after this I’ll be looking for a part-time job and moving into further studies.
“I’ve got five kids, and before coming to Ignite Colleges I was a stay-at-home mum. I enrolled here because it’s close to home and the staff are awesome. They helped me apply for my student loan, which made it much easier for me to get started, plus they’re easy to talk to, and are always on hand to help and support us. At Ignite they always encourage students to strive for the best.”
Kolotile Fatai
NZ Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Advanced Care & Support) Level 4 -
“I am a mother of four boys and a caregiver for my 80 year old mum. I used to work at the airport but through caring for mum I’ve realised how much I enjoy looking after elderly people. I’ve talked to lots of people who work as caregivers and it sounds like such interesting and rewarding work. It’s just the kind of job I’d love to do.
“That’s why I enrolled at Ignite Colleges to gain my Level 2 Healthcare qualification – I knew I’d need a certificate and some experience to get started in the healthcare sector. This course gives you two weeks of practical experience which I’m particularly looking forward to. I love being an Ignite student. I never miss a day because I enjoy coming here so much. I’m learning lots and love mingling with everyone. This is a wonderful opportunity – I feel so, so happy!
“I think my love of older people stems from growing up in the Islands and always looking after my parents. I can’t wait to get a job in a rest home so that I can take good care of all the elderly residents.”
Lemau Fomai
NZ Certificate in Health and Wellbeing Level 2 -
Healthcare
“I want to work in the healthcare sector because I'm a really caring person and I would like to take care of other people. I enrolled at Ignite Colleges after finishing high school and I’ve absolutely loved it. This place has the best tutors! They are really friendly, they help you in any way they can, and they truly believe in their students. Ignite knows that each student has their own potential and they do everything possible to bring out the best in each and every one of us. At Ignite it is all about the students and seeing them succeed.
“One of the things I’ve really enjoyed about studying here is having the opportunity to attend careers expos. I’ve been to two of them during my course and they’ve taught me so much. I’m now about to graduate with my Level 4 qualification and from here I plan to continue onto further study in healthcare management and might eventually do a Bachelor of Nursing. My long-term career goal is to manage a rest home.”
Saakshi Sunnaina
NZ Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Advanced Care & Support) Level 4 -
Healthcare
“I finished Year 13 at the end of last year and have spent this year studying Level 3 and 4 healthcare at Ignite Colleges. My long-term goal is to become a radiologist, so I thought studying healthcare would be a great start. I came into the course as a total beginner – I was more into art and photography at high school and didn’t even take health, so it was all new to me! I’ve loved studying at Ignite. I’ve learnt so much here – far more than I ever thought I would. Some of the highlights have included learning about biology and structures, and doing diagrams. The clinical experience blocks have also been really valuable. For my clinical experience I did work experience at a hospital and rest home and then I stayed on for another three weeks learning about their healthcare systems.
“Since studying at Ignite Colleges I’ve managed to get a great part-time job as a healthcare assistant at Ultimate Care. They were looking for someone with experience, and thanks to the clinical experience I gained during the course, I had what they were looking for. Ignite gave me a great reference too, so that helped a lot! Next year I’m going to keep working at Ultimate Care part-time and start my radiology studies.”
Shivani Nadan
NZ Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Advanced Care & Support) Level 4 -
Healthcare
“The minute I stepped into the Ignite Colleges campus I knew I was in the right place. I had an overwhelming feeling of wairua (spirit), a strong sense of belonging – and that was before I’d even signed up! I’d visited a lot of different schools but none of them felt right. When I walked into Ignite I felt instantly uplifted, like I’m really going to become somebody here.
“I grew up surrounded by people with disabilities. For me, that’s not a label. These people are my whanau, and I was always looking for ways I could help make them happy and feel good about themselves. These experiences helped me understand that everyone is different, and made me appreciate life a lot more. My mum always said I had a natural ability to reach out and connect with people, but until recently, I never thought about tapping into that, and turning that talent into a career.
“After six or seven years doing seasonal work in Southland I recently returned to Auckland and took time out to really try and pinpoint my passion. I was sick of just working for money – I wanted to find a career path that was fulfilling. I thought about all the people in my family that I’d made a positive impact on, and it gave me such a strong sense of accomplishment. When I listened to my heart, my path was quite clear. More than anything, I just want to make people happy.
“Ignite’s free Level 2 Health and Wellbeing course was the perfect place to start. The course has been amazing, and when it comes to my tutor, I’m actually lost for words! He brings his own life stories and experiences to the class, and really helps us flourish. He has encouraged me to step into leadership roles, enhancing my skills and giving me confidence. I’ve grown so much since enrolling here.
“I’m really looking forward to doing my practicum in a few weeks’ time and after I graduate I hope to find a job in a rest home to gain some experience. Next year I’ll be back at Ignite to complete my Level 3 and 4. These qualifications will help me achieve my long-term goal, which is to work as part of a mental health team. Mental health issues - such as depression, bipolar and schizophrenia - have had a big impact on my family. I’d love to try and combine my Maori ways and rongoā (traditional medicine) with the skills I’m learning at Ignite. I think that could be very powerful.”
Pearly-An Grey
NZ Certificate in Health and Wellbeing Level 2 -
Healthcare
“The practical training facilities at Ignite Colleges make learning a lot of fun. There is a specially set up hospital room on campus where we learn how to use equipment like hoists and slings, and get taught how to make beds hospital-style. We get to practice on each other, which means when we go out on practicum, we feel a lot more confident.
“I’ve recently completed a two-week practicum at Bethesda Care. I loved working with the elderly there, and learnt so much from observing the staff and helping out with tasks like feeding, and using the hoist and sling to lift them onto their commodes.
“I’m really enjoying studying at Ignite. The course is very interesting because we’re not just sitting down writing all day, it’s very hands-on. Plus, my tutor is very good. He’s funny, lively, and explains everything clearly. He definitely keeps the class interesting! Everyone at Ignite is very welcoming and sociable. In fact, I’ve made friends with people from all over the world.
“Before enrolling at Ignite I was working at an early childhood centre. I have a Diploma in Early Childhood Education and thought gaining some knowledge and qualifications in healthcare would really enhance my skillset. On a personal level I want to learn more about health and aged care because I’m not getting any younger! I want to know the sorts of things I’ll be going through over the coming years. On a professional level, one day I hope I can combine my knowledge of early childhood and health and turn it into a rewarding career. I’d love to start up my own home-based childcare business one day.”
Penny Lagafaoa
NZ Certificate in Health and Wellbeing Level 2
Freight & Logistics
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Operations Assistant, Tranz Freight NZ
“I worked for 11 years as a driver trainer but in March last year I had a stroke and had to give it up. After my rehabilitation, I decided I wanted to study freight and logistics. I enrolled at Ignite Colleges for Level 3, and now I’ve just graduated with my Level 4. I loved studying at Ignite and got a lot out of my studies. My tutor was incredibly knowledgeable – he really knew his stuff.
“Now I’m working as an Operations Assistant for Tranz Freight NZ and next week I’m starting my Diploma in International Freight and Logistics at MIT. I’ll still be working part-time for Tranz Freight so I’ll be getting the best of both worlds, combining work and study. My kids are really proud of all I have achieved since having my stroke. Doing Level 5 really is the icing on the cake!
“I love working in freight and logistics. I don’t like to sit in an office all day, and this is an industry that is varied and interesting. One day my goal is to run, or own my own, freight and logistics company, and as my kids will tell you, when I focus on my goals, I always achieve them.”
Jeanette Te Paa
Certificate in International Freight Logistics Level 3 -
Freight & Logistics
Store person, Fletcher Steel
“I am a solo mother of two wonderful sons, aged 12 and 6. Although I had my future set with a Degree in Early Childhood Teaching and a Diploma in Business Administration Level 5, I felt like it wasn't enough for me. Ignite Colleges Freight and Logistics programme caught my attention and I decided to enrol to renew my forklift licence and upskill.
“It was an awesome course. I especially enjoyed developing my health and safety knowledge and practicing in the work environment. Health and Safety became a focus for me – it is crucial to know and understand the importance of health and safety in any working environment.
“Throughout my studies I was working at PlaceMakers, and after completing Level 4 I applied for several roles that required the skills I’d just gained. I was offered a job with Ports of Auckland doing documentation for cargo coming into New Zealand from overseas. I did that for seven months and then decided my skills would be better utilised at Fletcher Steel, where I’m now working as a store person. One of my responsibilities is overseeing health and safety in my department, so the skills and knowledge I gained at Ignite Colleges is very relevant. My long-term goal is to work my way up and eventually become a boss here!”
Nga-metua Lavinea Kimiora Pera Maurangi
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Import Coordinator, Ultimate Transport
“I got my job at Ultimate Transport a week after graduating from Ignite Colleges. I couldn’t believe it! Someone from the company showed up at Ignite to do some recruiting and I’d just finished my course. It was perfect timing, and I was so happy.
“The job is great. I work with a small, supportive team where everyone knows everyone. It’s the sort of place where I don’t feel afraid to ask questions. I deal with clearance, cartage, basically anything that comes into New Zealand. I make sure the product or consignment gets from the port or country of origin into New Zealand, and even to the door. There’s a lot of paperwork involved, and a lot of liaising with shipping lines and so forth. I find it really fun!
“This job is quite different from what I was doing before – which was being a mum to my five kids and working as a caregiver. One morning I just woke up and thought ‘I want to do something different’. Freight and logistics appealed to me because it’s hands-on, but the reality is, I didn’t really have a clue what it involved until I started studying at Ignite.
“I can’t speak highly enough of my tutor. He is such a wise man and taught me so much. He gave us a great overview of the industry, which has set us up to work in so many different areas. I was particularly drawn to the documentation side of things - the fact that the perfect job fell straight into my lap is just amazing. The skills and knowledge I gained during my Level 3 and 4 studies have prepared me well to work in the industry – and it wasn’t just what our tutor taught us, it was the way he taught us that really helped. He shared his own experiences and really brought his classes to life.
“The transition to full-time employment was a bit of a shock at first. It was hard for the family because the kids all had to step up and do more work at home. But they are very proud of me. Every day I get home from work and they ask me how my day went. It means a lot!
“I’ve been working at Ultimate Transport for six months now and I plan to stay here for another few years and build my experience. I definitely think this place is where I’m meant to be.”
Josephine Otimi
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“I worked in shipping and warehousing for ten years but last year I was made redundant. A friend of mine suggested I study Freight and Logistics at Ignite, so I enrolled in Level 3, and have just graduated. Even though I’d worked in international shipping, there was so much more about the industry that I didn’t know. I especially loved learning about the process of freight and gaining an overview of how the industry works as a whole.
“My tutor was fantastic and taught me a lot. He is really good at what he does. I’d love to stay on for Level 4, but as a mother of five, taking time off to study is quite difficult. Hopefully one day soon Ignite Colleges will offer this course as a night class! At the moment I’m in the middle of the interview process for an assistant coordinator role, which I feel very excited about. It’s definitely my dream to build a career in the freight logistics sector. I find the process of getting stuff to where it’s supposed to go, extremely interesting. There is so much more to it than you would expect!”
Sui Vili
Certificate in International Freight Logistics Level 3 -
Freight & Logistics
“I’ve been working for Inter-Freight as a swinglift operator for about three years, and I’ve been driving for 20. I came to Ignite because I want to be working in the office as a despatch person instead of driving. When I looked into it I realised you make more money sitting in an office than you do behind a steering wheel!
“When I first started at Ignite, I found it hard to get my brain into study mode, but after a month or six weeks I was into it. The course was really valuable thanks to my brilliant teacher. I enjoyed everything, but particular highlights were learning about shipping and air cargo paperwork, understanding how to work out weights and volumes, and learning about documentation. I’m so glad I came to Ignite Colleges. The staff are really inspirational. They’re always happy and friendly and are really encouraging. If it wasn’t for their support I don’t think I would have completed.
“Now I’m about to graduate and Inter-Freight have already offered me a part-time job in the office doing despatch, so I’m pretty happy. I’d love to carry on with my studies and gain my Level 4 qualification and my aim is to eventually be out on port in distribution or despatch.”
Delamere Te Haara
Certificate in International Freight Logistics Level 3
Hospitality
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Front-of-House, The Green Time Eatery
“As a stay-at-home mum of three I was looking for a study option that would fit in with my family. Ignite Colleges was perfect because the hours were great especially with two children under five, plus the tutors were awesome. They have so much industry knowledge and experience to share with students. I loved my Level 3 and 4 hospitality studies – I met some incredible people, made some really close friendships, and enjoyed being a part of all the events and functions that Ignite runs.
“My tutors taught me to always take every opportunity that comes your way, because you never know what will be offered to you. They were so right! Earlier this year I got the chance to help one of the tutors at a Valentine’s Day event at a vegan café called The Green Time Eatery in Fort Street, Central Auckland. While I was there, the Director pulled me aside and offered me a job. I was so happy and excited, and now I work front-of-house at Green Time full-time.
“I really enjoy my job, particularly interacting with different customers, and catering to their different dietary needs. Customer service is key, and the customer service skills I learnt at Ignite help me every day at work. I strive to provide excellent service to every diner so that they will come back again. Eventually I would like to work my way up to become a front-of-house manager, or maybe even own my own restaurant.”
Maria Frances Teritaiti
NZ Certificate in Hospitality Level 4 -
“I love making drinks and interacting with people, so I think working in the hospitality industry could be my perfect career! I used to work in a call centre, but I was ready for a change, and when my sister-in-law told me all about her hospitality studies at Ignite Colleges I decided to enrol.
“I started my course in March and I love it. I’ve made heaps of new friends and learnt how to make lots of cool drinks. This will be very useful because my dream is to own my own bar one day. After I finish Level 3 I’m going to stay on at Ignite and gain my NZ Certificate in Hospitality Level 4. In Level 4 you get your LCQ Certificate (Licence Controller Qualification), which is really important if you want to work in bars.”
Stephanie Mackie
NZ Certificate in Hospitality Level 3 -
Hospitality
“After leaving school earlier this year I got a job at New World, which gave me lots of confidence and developed my customer service skills. I was keen to keep building my knowledge and expanding my skill set, so when a friend recommended Ignite Colleges, I decided to enrol in their Level 2 hospitality programme.
“The course is great. I love it! Everyone is very friendly and I’ve made so many new friends. The tutors are funny, and always ready to help you if you need it, which makes learning a lot easier. I’ve loved working with the other hospitality classes in the Ignite Colleges café. They tell us about what they are learning in Level 3 and they encourage us. It’s a very inspiring environment.”
Christini Tetava
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Hospitality
“I dropped out of school at the beginning of 2015 and spent over a year just staying at home. Sitting in bed watching TV all day gets pretty depressing after a while. I knew if I wanted to get anywhere in life I had to get out there and do something. I love cooking and I’m a really social person so I decided to study hospitality at Ignite Colleges.
“Since studying at Ignite I have discovered a passion for bar service and bartending. I’ve also enjoyed our barista training, learning how to make all the different coffees, and understanding the origins behind the coffee beans. We have our own student run café at Ignite, so we gain work experience while we study. We study theory in the classroom in the mornings and then work in the café every day from 11.30am until 2.30pm. We learn how to serve customers and handle money, and we even get to do functions on campus. We get lots of work experience opportunities.
“Before starting this course the only hospitality experience I had was working for a caterer a couple of times, but that was more helping with food preparation in the kitchen. Through studying at Ignite I’ve realised that I really love front-of-house. It’s a lot of fun! I’m about to complete my Level 3 and I’ve decided to stay on at Ignite for Level 4 before looking for a good job as a bartender. Further down the track I want to do my Level 5, gain my Manager’s Certificate and get into hospitality management.
“I feel so much happier and better about myself now that I have a plan! Hospitality opens so many doors and gives you so many options. Finally I have a career path and a strong sense of direction, and I have Ignite Colleges and this course to thank for it.”
Daneeka Brooke-Dass
NZ Certificate in Hospitality Level 3 -
Hospitality
“I moved here from Australia in 2015 and spent a year at high school, but I didn’t really enjoy it. I was looking to study – but in a different environment than school. I stumbled upon the Ignite Colleges website and saw they offered some free courses, so I picked out my favourite subject and enrolled!
“I’d always wanted to learn more about hospitality and I really loved my Level 3 course. We got to experience lots of different kinds of events and functions, including the catering for a graduation ceremony and the night service for a farewell function. I was also chosen to go out into the community and show people what I’d been learning. At Ignite they have an onsite café for the hospitality students to gain experience in, so I learnt how to make coffees and serve real customers.
“Initially I was planning to leave after gaining my Level 3 qualification, but I enjoyed it so much that I’ve just started my Level 4! The people at Ignite are really supportive and encouraging, so I knew that if I stayed on for Level 4 I would get all the help I needed to succeed.
“Studying at Ignite Colleges is completely different from studying at high school, and it is definitely the best place for me. At school there were always lots of different assessments and so many different subjects to juggle, but at Ignite I get to focus on one subject which makes it really easy for me to study. When I graduate later this year I plan to get a job in the hospitality industry and my goal is to eventually work in the airlines or on a cruise ship. That’s one of the great things about hospitality – there are plenty of opportunities to work and travel.”
Gloria Pati-Tamaalii
NZ Certificate in Hospitality Level 4
Cookery
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Cook, Tui Village
"I’ve worked at the Tui rest home in Papakura for the last seven or eight years and I’ve had a lot of different roles there, but once I started working in the kitchens I knew I wanted to become a qualified chef. It was pretty scary finding somewhere to study, and going back to school after 20 years, but I’m so glad I did it."
“I love studying at Ignite Colleges – it’s the best thing I could be doing for my future, and my family. Early on in my course my tutor suggested I complete Ignite’s free Maths & English course. This made my cookery classes a lot easier to understand. Level 3 cookery taught me a lot about health and safety, and I was able to take this newfound knowledge into my workplace where it benefitted everyone."
“Level 4 is very hands-on. I’m learning lots of new cookery techniques and am getting better and faster with each passing day. Now I can confidently cook four different dishes at once, and I have made lots of improvements to the menu at work. The residents are happy because the food is getting better and better, and my manager trusts me and is giving me more freedom in the kitchen. My goal now is to lift our kitchen grading at work – I’m aiming to get us an A or a B. Eventually though I want to move back to Kiribati and open up my own café. That’s my dream."
Maria Tutu
Certificate in Culinary Arts Level 4 -
“I started studying at Ignite Colleges halfway through last year, gaining my Level 3 hospitality qualification before moving into cookery. I’ve actually been working in the hospitality industry for many years, and I have experience running my own kitchen and training staff – but I need to get my certificates so I can keep moving up in the industry. Currently I’m working full-time as a cook at the Weymouth Cosmopolitan and Sports Club. It’s pretty full-on juggling work and study but I have my sights set on becoming a qualified chef. Once I’m qualified the pay will be better, plus there will be more opportunities to work and travel."
“I love studying cookery at Ignite. It’s pretty intense but we are learning a lot. Yesterday for example, we cooked five different dishes including Israeli couscous, prawns, red Thai chicken curry and a fine couscous salad with lamb rump and green mint pea puree. The best part of all is you get to eat everything you make! During our 20-week Level 3 course we spend 15 weeks in the training kitchens and five weeks doing work experience. It’s awesome. Every Tuesday we have carving classes with a world-class award-winning Taiwanese fruit and vegetable carver. We’ve already cooked at an Expo at the ASB Showgrounds and we are about to start in-house competitions to find out which students will get to compete in the NZ Hospitality Championships. There’s lots of variety, lots of fun, and lots of hands-on training when you study cookery at Ignite Colleges."
“I’m definitely staying on here to gain my Level 4 and 5, and I’m going to take advantage of the Spanish internship opportunities that Ignite offers its cookery students. At the end of this year I’ll spend 3 months living in Spain and working at a Michelin-starred restaurant there. I’ve never been out of New Zealand before and I can’t wait to experience a new culture and learn new ways of cooking."
“Cookery is my passion and has been since I was about 12. I was brought up in a big family and we got taught how to make meals from whatever was in the cupboard. We had to get creative! Eventually I’d like to become a cookery tutor, giving families the skills to eat well on a budget and make the most out of what they already have in their kitchen. I’d also love to open my own café.”
Angela Scrivener
Certificate in Culinary Arts Level 3
Enrol with Ignite
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