Level 3 Carpentry graduate Quayeshia Rahiri spent the majority of the year-long course working on a Kāinga Ora house that will soon be a family's new home. In the space of a year, Quayeshia has gone from a beginner, to having completed an entire two-bedroom house with her classmates. Next year, Quayeshia plans to return to Whitireia and WelTec for the Level 4 Certificate in Carpentry which is completed alongside an apprenticeship.
A natural problem-solver
When Quayeshia was at boarding school, she was often the one called upon to help fix any issues around campus.
“I was like the unofficial handy man. If someone needed help with something I’d always be keen to give it a go. I wouldn’t always know how to fix something, but I’d try my best, and eventually I built a base of knowledge. I’d be called up to fix pipes, bikes, tables, clear drains, anything. I love to problem-solving and help people.”
Quayeshia's eagerness to help solve problems like these is what inspired her to pursue carpentry. As a self-professed “yapper”, she also knew she wouldn’t suit a quiet classroom environment. Being outside, where she could learn by doing, was much more interesting to her.
“I can’t keep still, and I can’t keep quiet, if I had to sit in a room and quietly listen for an hour, I’d lose my mind.”
Learning practical skills in a purpose-built environment
During the Certificate in Construction Trade Skills (Level 3) (Carpentry) programme, students learn how to safely use carpentry hand tools and timber machining equipment. They set up timber and metal scaffolds, interpret construction drawings, prepare quantity lists, and learn how to apply safe work practices on construction sites.
At the beginning of the year, students work on smaller projects where they pick up on the basics like health and safety on site, and how to use different tools. After the first couple of weeks, students then apply these skills in a practical setting, by building a house from the ground up.
Another component of the programme is maths, which Quayeshia said is not her strength. “It helped that the maths was applied. My thinking around it is if I’m not going to use it, I don’t want to know it. But because it was part of the work, it felt easier to pick up.”
Connecting with females across the trades
One of the most surprising parts of the programme for Quayeshia was how many girls were in her class. Of a class of 17, five of them were females.
“I felt comfortable being a girl on-site. Our class had a great vibe. We were never quiet. We were lucky to have a tutor like Tui who was so patient and cool.”
Quayeshia also attended the Woman in Trades lunches hosted throughout the year. Students get to meet other females across trades programmes at Whitireia and WelTec, and hear from industry speakers. “I was surprised by how many females were studying trades.”
Supported by the Māori and Pacific Trades Training (MPTT) scholarship
Because Quayeshia was a recipient of the Māori and Pacific Trades Training Scholarship, she was able to have her course costs covered. MPTT recipients also receive boots, workwear, safety glass and earmuffs. They receive this at the start of the year so they’ve got everything they need to complete the course. On top of that, students are typically gifted tools at graduation, like drills and skill saws.
MPTT recipients receive a wide range of support. The Tamaiti Whāngai team will support you with mentoring, goal setting, pastoral and cultural support, and you'll have the opportunity to get your drivers license, and first aid certificates.
The job brokers in the Tamaiti Whāngai team also help MPTT students find work in the industry. Currently, Quay is using their help to find an apprenticeship before starting the Level 4 programme. In the Level 4 programme, students attend night classes and practical tutorials alongside an apprenticeship. At the end of the programme, students step out as fully qualified carpenters.
Study Carpentry at Whitireia and WelTec
Learn the culture and processes of a worksite. Work with a range of materials and tools currently being used by industry. Become proficient in health and safety. Refine your skills with the help of our experienced tutors.
