In 2019 Mahurangi College established a Building Academy to provide opportunity and a vocational pathway for students who are considering entering the trades as a career choice.

 

When students enter the programme at Year 12, they are registered as an apprentice with BCITO, thus working towards a building qualification, while also gaining NCEA credits (the equivalent of two subjects). When students leave, not only do they have credits towards their trade certificate but also NCEA qualifications.

 

Year 12 students have built cabins for the our new outdoor education facility by the Hoteo River. Cabins are also being built available for the public to purchase.

 

In 2021, Year 13 students constructed a tiny home out of a high density PVC foam, layered with fiberglass, reducing house weight by 30-40%. This technology is widely used in the marine industry, including in America’s Cup boats, but this was the first time a home has been built using it. The tiny home included two mezzanine bedrooms, a living area, bathroom and a full kitchen.