For over a quarter of a century, women in Christchurch have had the opportunity to attend the Next Step Centre for Women courses at Ara Institute ofCanterbury. The centre provides courses which help women to work out ‘where to next?’ as well as courses providing skills needed to get a job. The administrator Alison Oh and the two tutors, Gillian Rose and Sam Uta’i offer a welcoming and supportive environment and a range of programmes including those focusing on both personal and career development.
Many of the women who have completed courses move onto further study in Trades, Nursing, Midwifery, Engineering, Computing, Social Work, Hospitality, Business, Music, Science and the Arts. Some have started their own businesses and others have gone directly to employment. Almost every student reports a positive life impact from their experience. Courses are regularly reviewed and enhanced to ensure they are relevant for all students.