Taine is currently working with the Mitchell Construction Team on ‘The Grandstand,’ Claudlands much loved heritage building which has been closed since September 2022 for remedial works. 

When Gateway Coordinator, Ange Daysh, visited Taine and the crew on site she could immediately see that Taine was totally in his element and thriving on the practical, hands-on building experience, “the progress that has been made on the historical grandstand at Claudlands was incredible to see and having Taine as part of the restoration is an amazing opportunity for him. His confidence has flourished while taking part in the placement and we are so grateful that Mitchell Construction has given Taine the opportunity to be involved in such an exciting project,” she said.  

Mitchell Construction project manager, Brad Mitchell, said the feedback he was receiving from the team about Taine was so positive it was an easy decision to invite him to stay on. “Taine arrives on site before he is due to start, is a quick learner, and has a natural talent as far as the building industry goes. He is hardworking with an excellent attitude and we are enjoying getting to know him and supporting him in this work placement,” he said. 

St John’s College offers a range of vocational opportunities for boys through its Gateway programme, from academic to more practically inclined. Work placements and unit standards are applicable to the programme and enables students to have a practical experience within an industry they may be thinking about pursuing further. Sometimes, gateway experiences can lead to further employment opportunities with the company.  

Thank you to Mitchell Construction for supporting the St John’s College Gateway programme and well done to Taine Manihera, who has made a great impression with the team.