Purpose of the Services Academies programme

  • Raise student achievement at NCEA level 2 or higher.
  • Motivate students to stay engaged in learning and training by providing them with the skills and experience to make good decisions about their future.
  • Prepare students to transition into tertiary education, vocational training or employment.
  • Support students to develop their self-confidence and identity through participation in youth life skills and leadership courses.
  • Support student attendance at school.
  • Support students to set goals in relation to their education, well-being, and future pathways in tertiary education, vocational training and employment. 

It is expected that students enrolled in the Services Academies’ programme will achieve the following outcome(s):

  • attain NCEA level 2 or higher
  • remain in secondary school education or transition to tertiary education, vocational training or employment
  • develop self-confidence and motivation which supports them to make positive decisions about their future.

Target Student Group

The target student group is year 12 and 13 students. Students participating in the Services Academy may already aspire to a career in the Defence Force or other uniform service. Others, including those who may be at risk of disengaging from education, will be seeking to reengage in education and develop their life and leadership skills.

Programme

Each services academy has 20 places each year. Students will be expected to:

  • work towards NCEA Level 2
  • participate in a range of motivating and challenging learning experiences provided in association with the New Zealand Defence Force's Youth Development Unit. These include a two-week induction course, a leadership and advanced leadership course, a ten-day challenge course and other outdoor based activities.

 For more information please email service.academies@education.govt.nz

Current Services Academy Schools