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 Upskillz is designed to equip school leavers with essential foundational skills that are practical, hands-on, and applicable to being self sufficient and employable. This 10-week block introduces participants to basic trade and life skills, including power tool safety, carpentry, gardening, mechanics, electrical work, bush craft and cooking.

Upskillz emphasizes self-sufficiency, community engagement, and environmental stewardship. Each session integrates these principles to foster a sense of responsibility toward oneself, others, and the environment, preparing participants for future challenges in a practical and sustainable way.

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Week 1: Introduction to the Program & Power Tools Basics

  • Content: Safety protocols, introduction to key power tools (drills, saws, sanders), and practical demonstrations.

  • Project: Begin building a garden bed.

  • Outcomes: Participants will gain confidence in using basic tools and understanding safety precautions.

  • Ngā Tangata: Promotes personal safety and well-being through proper use of tools and equipment.

  • Kaitiakitanga: Starting a project that involves working with natural materials (wood) for sustainable gardening.

 

Week 2: Carpentry Skills - Building a Garden Bed (Part 2)

  • Content: Carpentry fundamentals—measuring, cutting, assembling wood structures.

  • Project: Complete the garden bed.

  • Outcomes: Participants will complete a functional garden bed using carpentry techniques.

  • Ngā Tangata: Building connection through teamwork and group problem-solving.

  • Kaitiakitanga: Emphasizes the use of sustainable materials and building for a purpose—growing food.

 

Week 3: Gardening Basics

  • Content: Soil health, planting, composting, and sustainable gardening practices.

  • Project: Planting the garden bed and establishing a compost system.

  • Outcomes: Participants will understand how to grow food sustainably and nurture healthy soil.

  • Ngā Tangata: Encourages well-being by teaching how to grow nutritious food for better living.

  • Kaitiakitanga: Promotes long-term environmental care through organic gardening and composting.

 

Week 4: Basic Mechanical Skills

  • Content: Introduction to basic mechanics (e.g., bike maintenance, tool repair).

  • Project: Bicycle maintenance and minor repairs.

  • Outcomes: Participants will learn how to maintain and repair mechanical equipment.

  • Ngā Tangata: Supports personal independence and safety by providing skills for self-reliance.

  • Kaitiakitanga: Encourages repair and reuse, reducing waste and promoting sustainable practices.

 

Week 5: Basic Electrical Skills

  • Content: Safety around electricity, wiring basics, and simple household electrical repairs (e.g., replacing a plug).

  • Project: Wiring a basic electrical circuit.

  • Outcomes: Participants will understand basic electrical concepts and how to safely manage small electrical tasks.

  • Ngā Tangata: Fosters independence by giving participants skills for safe home management.

  • Kaitiakitanga: Teaches energy efficiency and the importance of electrical safety, linking to long-term sustainability.

 

Week 6: Introduction to Plumbing and Water Systems

  • Content: Understanding household plumbing, water conservation, and fixing leaks.

  • Project: Fixing a basic plumbing issue (e.g., repairing a leaky tap).

  • Outcomes: Participants will learn water-saving techniques and basic plumbing skills.

  • Ngā Tangata: Supports well-being by providing essential skills for home maintenance.

  • Kaitiakitanga: Encourages water conservation as a critical part of long-term environmental care.

 

Week 7: Cooking Basics

  • Content: Food preparation, cooking techniques, and nutrition.

  • Project: Cooking a meal using ingredients from the garden bed planted earlier.

  • Outcomes: Participants will learn to prepare simple, nutritious meals and develop confidence in the kitchen.

  • Ngā Tangata: Promotes healthy living by teaching participants how to cook balanced meals.

  • Kaitiakitanga: Reinforces the concept of growing and cooking locally sourced food for sustainability.

 

Week 8: DIY Home Repairs

  • Content: Minor home maintenance tasks (e.g., fixing a door, patching a wall).

  • Project: Hands-on repair of common household issues.

  • Outcomes: Participants will gain confidence in maintaining their homes independently.

  • Ngā Tangata: Promotes safety and independence through practical home repair skills.

  • Kaitiakitanga: Focus on reducing waste by fixing rather than replacing household items.

 

Week 9: Sustainable Living and Decarbonisation

  • Content: Introduction to renewable energy, solar power, and sustainable living techniques.

  • Project: Designing a basic solar-powered device or exploring energy-efficient appliances.

  • Outcomes: Participants will learn the basics of renewable energy and sustainable living practices.

  • Ngā Tangata: Encourages well-being and long-term planning for living in harmony with the environment.

  • Kaitiakitanga: Teaches the importance of sustainable energy solutions, fostering intergenerational thinking.

 

Week 10: Reflection, Project Completion & Graduation

  • Content: Review and reflection on the skills learned throughout the program.

  • Project: Finishing any ongoing projects, discussing future applications of learned skills.

  • Outcomes: Participants will complete the program with a stronger sense of confidence, self-reliance, and practical knowledge.

  • Ngā Tangata: Celebrates personal growth, teamwork, and community connections.

  • Kaitiakitanga: Reinforces long-term commitment to sustainable practices and stewardship of the environment.

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