04/08/2026
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We are thrilled to celebrate PNGHS Gateway student Willow Brizzell, who has successfully mapped out her career in construction and secured an apprenticeship. Willow’s success is a fantastic example of where the Gateway pathway can lead, and we wish her every success on the journey ahead!
"Six months ago, if you had asked me where I saw myself after school, I would have said I was interested in construction, but I wasn't sure if it would ever become a career. When I was given the opportunity to join a construction course one day a week at Palmerston North Boys High School, I said yes straight away. Through this, I learnt basic construction skills, completed BCITO bookwork, and discovered how much I enjoyed the trade. The more I learnt, the more I realised that construction was something I genuinely loved and could see myself doing as a career.
Wanting to learn more, I asked how I could get an apprenticeship or some work experience. Wood Robson Homes was recommended, so I took it upon myself to give them a call. I went in for a meeting on my own after five weeks of work experience. I was offered paid work over the school holidays. Not long after, I received the phone call offering me a carpentry apprenticeship with H P Construction, working alongside the team at Wood Robson Homes.
Looking back, I'm so grateful I took that first opportunity, because it completely changed the direction of my future. I've learnt so much in such a short amount of time, and every day has made me love this line of work even more. I truly believe that my hard work, determination, and persistence are what got me to where I am today. If there's one thing I've learnt, it's that if you're interested in something, put yourself out there and give it a go. You never know where that first opportunity might lead or where you might end up." Willow Brizzell
