School pathways

You’ve got options, and we’ll walk alongside you as you explore them.

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TradesAcademyLarge Full 2235x1490px — Trades academy student being helped by tutor

Start your future with flexible study options at NMIT

NMIT offers practical, hands-on programmes to help you get ahead, whether you're still at school or ready for a fresh start. Explore your options, earn credits, and step confidently into work or future study.

We work closely with school across the top of the south to support students through secondary-tertiary transitions.

NCEA and credits

Before applying, check whether your programme contributes to NCEA. Some tertiary courses can count toward school credits, while others support future qualifications beyond school.

Talk to your school's Career advisor for tailored advice.

2 column portrait 1470x1500px Laura Price GIF (2) — Student spotlight:

Laura Price began her journey in NMIT’s Trades Academy, where she discovered her passion for beauty therapy. She’s since completed a Level 4 certificate and is now studying for her Level 5 diploma at NMIT. What started as a part-time course at school became a clear path into a career she loves.

Click on the image above to read her story!

Trades Academy (For school students)

Train for a trade while completing school

NMIT's Trade Academy helps you stay enrolled in school while gaining real-world skills in areas like building, automotive, and engineering. It's perfect for students who are ready to start working with their hands and thinking about job pathways.

📍 Offered at NMIT campuses in Nelson and Marlborough.

Learn more about Trades Academy

STAR Courses (For school students)

Explore career options while you're still at school

STAR (Secondary Tertiary Alignment Resource) Courses are short hands-on classes that give you a taste of different industries, from trades and tech to the creative sector. It's a great way to find out what you enjoy and what should come next.

📍 Available for Year 11–13 students across Nelson, Marlborough and Tasman.

Learn more about STAR Courses

Foundation Pathways (For school leavers)

Get the support you need to move forward

Foundation pathways are designed for school leavers who need a different way to learn. If you didn't complete NCEA Level 2 or want help finding your direction, these programmes offer structure, support, and practical learning to prepare you for work or further study.

📍 Available across the Top of the South.

Learn more about Foundation Pathways

Te Tautoko Ākonga - Student Support

Parents and whānau - are you too considering study?

We can support your study journey

STAR Courses

Secondary Tertiary Alignment Resource (STAR) courses are short classes that give students a taste for different study and career options.

Trades Academy

Trades Academy opens doors for secondary school students who want to stay at school but are ready to start training for a real job or explore vocational options.

Foundation Pathways

Open your world to endless possibilities with foundation and pathway studies designed to offer direction and qualifications to kick-start your career.

Scholarships

NMIT is proud to offer new and current student scholarships. This could reduce your study costs or give you tools for success. Apply now, it's easy!

Study Fees Free

Students can get one year of study or two years of training.

Map out your future

NMIT study navigators can work with you to design a study journey that fits your life.

Schools & Educators

We’re proud of the connections we’ve built with schools and educators across the region, and we’re here to back you and your students every step of the way.