Study sessions and noho marae have transformed the learning journey for two Māori women from Northland. Celia Duffy-Henry and Magdalene Makiha are both completing health and wellbeing apprenticeships through work-based training provider, Careerforce.
In remote areas such as theirs, limited resources can challenge learning, but in-person study sessions are proving key to successful learning, and in culturally supportive environments. This is particularly significant for Māori learners, who thrive in communal settings.
Both women work as Kaimanaaki Tangata (Support Workers) at Hauora Hokianga, which offers a variety of health services, including mental health and community development.
Careerforce apprentices Magdalene Makiha (left) and Celia Duffy-Henry (right)
Celia highlights their commitment to community care, and says, “we emphasise the manaaki of the people in our community,” a principle that has been her driver in her time at Hauora Hokianga. Magdalene, an enrolled nurse, especially finds fulfilment in helping the elderly maintain their quality of life. “It’s satisfying and rewarding,” she adds.
The 18-month apprenticeships combine workplace learning with online study via Careerforce’s online learning platform, Aka Toi. Initially, their progress faced challenges when Carol Fisher, a key supporter, retired. Celia says, “If there was a present we could give Carol for her retirement, it was a promise that we would complete the course.” With Kristina McGuiness-King and then Dee Morrissey-Butler stepping in and study leave implemented, the additional support from Careerforce’s Deb White, Dara Davenport and Ramari Dewes proved crucial in getting them back on track.
The Careerforce face-to-face sessions enable learners to ask questions and collaborate on unit standards. “We’ve attended four noho and ten wānanga classes in Whangarei and have never missed a class. It’s really awesome to have that support and time,” Magdalene shares, despite the 3.5-hour drive from her home.
Both women highlight the unpredictable nature of their work, which complicates their studies. “We don’t have a 9–5 role. Emergencies can happen at any hour, making it challenging to balance our busy lives on marae committees, family responsibilities, and studying without distractions like power cuts or Wi-Fi outages.” Celia explains.
Their learning journey has also involved improving their digital skills. Celia says, “When we started our mahi, we didn’t even know how to turn on a computer.” Thanks to Careerforce discussing the importance of technology with their employer, they now have laptops and have gained confidence in their digital literacy.
Celia believes their efforts will benefit future learners at the organisation. “We’ve paved the way for them.” Magdalene adds, “We’ve both become very confident in our roles.”
Celia adds, “Our managers Priscilla Van Oorschot and lead Angelia Goodhew have noticed our confidence in monthly ‘Kaimanaaki Tangata’ meetings. We’re becoming more assertive about what we want for our clients and in our roles, something we never did before.”
Celia says, “The more we learn and upskill, the more we can share with our community.” Both women have found that the apprenticeship has opened doors to new opportunities, reinforcing their roles in community health.
Celia appreciates the camaraderie at the noho marae, led by Careerforce’s Rachael Puru and says, “Having peers who boost our confidence has been invaluable.” The interactions with peers from other organisations provide essential support and shared experiences, which are often lacking when studying alone.
Through the Careerforce Apprenticeship programme, each learner receives pastoral care and support from a dedicated Apprenticeship Advisor, further enhancing their educational experience. This comprehensive approach not only equips them with skills for their current roles but also prepares them to uplift their communities through enhanced confidence, knowledge and understanding.
For more information about Careerforce apprenticeships, and how employers may qualify for Apprenticeship Boost funding, now extended to 2028, contact Careerforce.