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Parents & Caregivers

Supporting a young person through education and early career choices can be challenging, especially when traditional school settings don’t fit. At EmployNZ, we work alongside parents, caregivers, and whānau to help each learner find the path that’s right for them. Whether your teen is exploring vocational training, considering leaving school early, or looking for practical study options, we provide clear guidance, trusted advice, and a supportive environment to help them take their next step with confidence. The resources on this page are designed to help you understand how we operate, and what we can do for your learner.

Vocational Pathways and your Learner

Choosing the right path after school can feel overwhelming for young people and their families. Vocational Pathways provide a clear framework that links NCEA qualifications to the entry level skills and knowledge sought after by employers and training providers.

Worried about your 15-year-old teen leaving school before they turn 16, before they have NCEA?

Perhaps you are wondering if your 15-year-old would be better off leaving school and getting a job, or studying elsewhere? Leaving school, a year early does not define who our young people can become. Many teens leave school early and move into apprenticeships and gain their qualifications on the job. Some decide to continue their study with a tertiary education provider.

How to get an Early Leaving Exemption (ELX) for your 15 year old

An Early Leaving Exemption (ELX) is an approval from the Ministry of Education for your 15 year old child to be exempt from enrolment at a school. The process is designed for those young people who need to leave school before the age of 16, which is the age they are required to be engaged with compulsory education.