TM Rasmussen
In 2024 I completed the Uniformed Services Trades Academy with Whenua Iti Outdoors and really enjoyed the different range of learning options each week. Every week was something different, which kept things interesting. “The best weeks by far were Fire and Police, those were very hands-on and interesting”. After that, I decided to apply to the new course Outdoor Emergency Response this year as it was a good pathway from Uniformed Services.
The best part of the Outdoor Emergency Response course was definitely the people, both the tutors and the other students. At the start, we were all strangers, but after spending so much time together, we got to know each other well and started pushing each other to do better and step out of our comfort zones. I have gotten better at talking to new people and working in a team. Being able to plan and lead a group was a big confidence boost for me.
The tutors at Whenua Iti Outdoors have heaps of knowledge to pass on, they always make you feel safe and provide hands-on learning that keeps you engaged. I would recommend any students to do a Whenua Iti Outdoors Trades Academy course as it is refreshing learning in the outdoors compared to being in a classroom.
Looking ahead, I am keen to apply for the NMIT Level 4 Trainee Ranger course. I want to work with the Department of Conservation doing hut maintenance and helping look after the outdoors. This course helped me figure out what I want to do after school, and I know the skills I have picked up will be useful for whatever comes next.