A pilot trades course that provided students with hands-on training through the renovation of a house is coming to a successful close with the property now sold.

This year, eleven Year 12 students participated in the Allied Trades Training Mahi Whakamana Pilot, a collaborative effort between  Trident, Futures Academy and Ngāti Awa.

Course lead teacher Julie Ball said 10 of the eleven students completed the programme, with the exception of one who received a rugby scholarship to Australia.

The renovation project transformed a three-bedroom, one-bathroom house, featuring a complete refurbishment including a new kitchen and bathroom. Students acquired a range of practical skills, including carpentry, concreting, interior plastering, painting and decorating, kitchen and bathroom design, window glazing, gib fixing, timber finishing, roofing, plumbing, electrical work, insulation, and health and safety practices.

Throughout the course, students visited industry-related sites and gained valuable work experience with builders. With guidance from Ngāti Awa, they also learned about Ngāti awatanga.

Hamish Galloway of Galloway Builders served as the course tutor and noted that his employees provided essential one-on-one support for students.

Mrs Ball said the students had now completed their Level 2 construction course.

“A lot of the students are going on to the Level 3 construction course at Toi Ohomai in Whakatāne.”

The house was sold by tender to a business in Taneatua that will use it to house overseas workers.

With the programme set to continue next year, Mrs Ball highlighted the enrollment of a student from another high school in 2025 as a sign of success.

Steve and Karyn Jones of BOP House Removals donated the house for renovation. They expressed their commitment to supporting the programme and are actively seeking another house for next year.

Mrs Ball also thanked Matt Cutler and the staff at Mitre 10 for their invaluable assistance throughout the project.

As the course concludes this week, students are equipped for part-time work with a variety of renovation skills. There are plans to expand the programme to include Level 3 BCAT, allowing students to build an entire house in the future.