Swinging into full gear

The world is Zarrin Robertson's oyster, now that he's gaining an internationally-recognised trade.

Zarrin Robertson

Study

We get to work on all the Otago Polytechnic cars, and staff cars. You can even bring your own car in if it’s related to what you’re learning

Zarrin (Zed) Robertson wasn’t really sure what he wanted to study when he came to Dunedin’s Tertiary Open Day from Gore High School.

“I came up for a look around Otago Uni but the Polytechnic seemed more practical … more me”.

He’s always been interested in engines, so he started off with a Automotive Engineering Level 3 Certificate, then completed a Level 4 Business Administration programme.

“Studying at Otago Polytechnic was different from school. They taught us all the academic subjects, but they also gave us life skills – like basic presentation, and how to deal with customers.”

Zed says Otago Polytechnic’s automotive workshop is one of the best in New Zealand.

“They have all the new technology that you don’t get in a small workshop – like a huge selection of scan tools.”

There’s also a steady stream of cars that need work.

“We get to work on all the Otago Polytechnic cars and staff cars. You can even bring your own car in if it’s related to what you’re learning.”

Zed’s lecturer recommended him to Forbury Service Centre and now he’s completing a managed apprenticeship. That means he’s working full-time and studying part-time.

“Everything I’ve learnt at the Polytechnic absolutely applies to my job. What I’m studying is what I’m doing!”

Zed plans to finish his apprenticeship and eventually save enough money to go travelling.

“If I have a qualified trade, it’ll be so much easier to get work wherever I go”.

 

New Zealand Certificate in Automotive Engineering (Level 3)

Learn how to service general automotive systems. This qualification is designed for people who are beginning a career in the industry.

New Zealand Certificate in Business (Administration and Technology) (Level 4)

Do you want to learn how to make an office run smoothly and efficiently? Then this is the ideal option. If you're someone who has already mastered the basics of business administration, this nationally-recognised qualification will help you step up to a more senior level. If you're new to administration, it will give you an advanced understanding of administration and management skills that will make you a valuable asset to employers.

Student

Zarrin Robertson

Study

New Zealand Certificate in Automotive Engineering (Level 3)

Learn how to service general automotive systems. This qualification is designed for people who are beginning a career in the industry.

New Zealand Certificate in Business (Administration and Technology) (Level 4)

Do you want to learn how to make an office run smoothly and efficiently? Then this is the ideal option. If you're someone who has already mastered the basics of business administration, this nationally-recognised qualification will help you step up to a more senior level. If you're new to administration, it will give you an advanced understanding of administration and management skills that will make you a valuable asset to employers.