Launching students

'Youth employment is a major issue in New Zealand and launching young people into work is critical to improving the situation.’ Launchpad in Dunedin is a progressive and exciting non-profit employment initiative. The Employment Scholarship Trust formed Launchpad in 1997 in response to the difficulties facing New Zealand’s young people and the nation’s employers.

Launchpad provides a unique solution that helps mainly female school leavers into a professional administrative career and minimises the employment risks faced by today’s business world.   Year 12 and 13 school leavers are given the opportunity of one year’s full-time paid work as an office junior combined with free study leading to a certificate in business administration.

The scheme matches up school leavers with employers, and the young people, mostly women, are supported and mentored during the year to ensure the placement is a success.

FACT: Launchpad and work readiness programmes are a way to prepare young people for a working future and showcase their talents in work experience to prospective employers.

Benefits of youth to work programmes:
-  Allows employers to trial and spot talent. 
-  Encourages participation and provides a launch-pad for youth who need it.
-  Assists in the successful transition from education to work.

For further information contact:
Helen Richards
PO Box 621
Dunedin 9054

Phone: 027 617 5077
Email: dunedin@launchpad.org.nz