The School of Secondary-Tertiary Studies (SSTS) gives students the opportunity to complete their NCEA Level 1, 2 and 3 qualifications, as well as University Entrance (UE), while providing a taste of the various programmes available at Manukau Institute of Technology (MIT) to help map out their future.
We know that classroom learning doesn’t work for everyone. Some students struggle to learn in a traditional school environment. They enjoy hanging out with their mates but struggle to stay engaged in the classroom.
These students often feel invisible in class. They feel lost in large class sizes. Their teachers often can’t give them the attention they need. Because the subjects are often theoretical, they can be difficult to understand without individual contact time and the opportunity to ask questions. The result is a lack of connection, boredom and wagging school.
At SSTS, our approach to learning is to get “hands-on” and, where possible, learn practically rather than through theory and concepts. Where we can, learning is shaped by a student’s background and culture.
Students also receive ample contact time with their teachers, who support and help them learn.
Another key difference is that SSTS doesn’t follow a standard school calendar with NCEA levels progressing annually. Students can start at any time of the year, and once they’ve achieved a level, they move directly onto the next. There’s no waiting to start at the beginning of the school year; students can start whenever works for them.
Based at MIT, SSTS is a unique educational concept in New Zealand. Students can continue to be part of their old school life, but the learning occurs at MIT, where small class sizes, hands-on training and independence are the norms. Each student receives a qualification plus practical skills to help map out individual future plans.
Key points:
- NCEA qualification
- National or MIT qualification
- Still enrolled at school
- Participate in school activities
- Practical hands-on qualification
- Access to all the MIT facilities
Students will be enrolled at SSTS for up to four years*. At the end of this period, they’ll earn an NCEA qualification and a national or MIT qualification, enabling them to start a career or continue studying at a higher level.
*Free for the four years that the student attends SSTS. Free to New Zealand citizens and permanent residents. Entry criteria apply.
