NEET Service
Supporting Rangatahi into Employment, Education, or Training
At Te Ora Hou Ōtautahi, our NEET (Not in Employment, Education, or Training) Service is focused on providing intensive, tailored support to rangatahi who are disengaged from education, training, or employment. We understand the unique challenges faced by young people in this situation, and our dedicated youth coaches are here to guide them towards a brighter future.
Our youth coaches are the heart of the NEET Service. Employed by a mix of community organisations, iwi/Māori, private training institutions, and other local services, they work one-on-one with rangatahi aged 16–17 who are either not in education, training, or employment, or at risk of dropping out. By building strong, trusting relationships, our coaches can get to know each rangatahi and their whānau, identifying their strengths, challenges, and goals.
Personalised Mentoring
Each youth coach supports around 20 rangatahi, allowing them to develop a deep understanding of each young person’s situation. This personalised approach helps create realistic and achievable action plans that move them towards independence.
Group Work & Activities
In addition to one-on-one mentoring, we run group workshops, fun activities, and trips that encourage social connection and skill development. These group experiences complement the individualised support and help build confidence.
Focus on Well-Being and Cultural Identity
Holistic Support
Our youth coaches don’t just focus on education or employment. They offer practical help with things like housing, job interviews, and connections to local support services. Whether it’s helping a young person find stable housing or preparing them for their first job interview, our coaches are there every step of the way.
Pathway Guidance
We support rangatahi in identifying their goals and finding the best pathways for their future, whether that’s returning to school, enrolling in training, or entering the workforce. Our partnerships with local education providers, training institutions, and employers open up a wide range of opportunities for rangatahi.
We recognise that well-being and cultural identity play an important role in a young person’s success. Our coaches work holistically to ensure rangatahi feel grounded in their identity, values, and sense of belonging, all of which contribute to their motivation and resilience.
Through the NEET Service, we help rangatahi overcome barriers and rediscover their potential. Our focus is on guiding them towards education, training, and work-based learning, but we do much more than that. Our youth coaches are dedicated to providing the tailored support that rangatahi need to thrive – whether it’s through practical life skills, emotional support, or helping them find a sense of purpose and independence.
If you or someone you know could benefit from the NEET Service, or if you’d like to learn more, please contact us at Te Ora Hou Ōtautahi. We’re here to help rangatahi take that next step toward a positive future.