Technology & Trades

Discover the art of fine woodworking at Nelson College, where hands-on craftsmanship meets creativity. Guided by a trade-trained and highly experienced teacher, this course teaches students to create functional, beautiful projects like picture frames, cabinets, and heirloom-quality side tables. Using hand tools, machines, and power tools, boys will develop essential skills, embrace workshop safety, and bring their designs to life.  Whether crafting a wooden stool or a cabinet, this course opens the door to a valued, practical skill set—and the joy of making something truly lasting.

Discover the world of building and construction with Nelson College’s Trade Building course. Led by a highly experienced, trade-trained teacher, this programme offers hands-on experience that prepares you to become trade-ready in one of New Zealand’s most crucial sectors. Gain valuable NCEA Level 2 and 3 unit standards while working on practical projects in our state-of-the-art Gibbons Trade Centre. With exposure to real-world processes and industry visits, you’ll build not just structures but a solid foundation for a rewarding future career.

Nelson College’s Automotive Engineering course is where hands-on learning meets real-world application. Run by trade-trained tutor Jeremy Classen, this course offers a comprehensive introduction to automotive systems, safe work practices, and essential skills like MIG welding and tool mastery. Work in teams to build and race Grass Karts in an exciting inter-school competition while gaining knowledge of vehicle systems and engine assembly. This course is suitable for those eyeing a future in the automotive and engineering industries, and lays the foundation for a trade-ready career in one of New Zealand’s most vital sectors.

Prepare for the future of innovation with Nelson College’s Design and CAD Technology course. This hands-on, project-based programme equips students with essential skills in design, engineering, and manufacturing—critical components of New Zealand’s most vital industries. Using industry-standard CAD software like SolidWorks, you’ll design, model, and present unique products, create professional-grade 2D and 3D drawings, animations, and even 3D-printed prototypes. Whether crafting a personalised creation or preparing for a degree in design or engineering, this course combines creativity and technology to make you trade-ready in a rapidly evolving world.

Nelson College’s graphics course is where freedom and choice meet innovation. Students explore and refine their ideas in a range of areas, focusing on Architectural and Spatial Design inspired by influential designers. You’ll develop essential skills, including advanced graphic techniques and cutting-edge computer applications, to bring your concepts to life. With a tailored selection of standards, this course offers a dynamic pathway for students to build a strong foundation in design and creativity, preparing them for exciting opportunities in the modern world of design and architecture.

Welcome to the Food and Hospitality Course at Nelson College

The Food and Hospitality course at Nelson College offers students hands-on experience and essential skills for one of New Zealand’s most dynamic and growing industries. Combining practical learning with industry-aligned knowledge, this course prepares students for work or further education in the modern, fast-paced hospitality sector.

Students will master food planning, preparation, and presentation while developing skills in teamwork, problem-solving, and resource management. An emphasis on food safety and hygiene ensures they meet industry standards, making them workplace-ready. Through live catering events, they’ll gain real-world experience and confidence in creating products suitable for sale.

Whether pursuing a career in hospitality or enhancing life skills, this course provides the tools and knowledge to succeed. Join us and take the first step towards an exciting future in food and hospitality.

In this exciting course, students build on the foundational skills gained in Year 9, further exploring the dynamic world of digital technology and problem-solving. With hands-on experience in a variety of tools and software, students will develop valuable technical and creative skills.

Highlights include designing websites using HTML and incorporating Adobe Animate skills from Year 9, delving into programming and robotics, and potentially exploring the world of 3D modelling with Blender. This course offers a perfect blend of creativity, logic, and innovation, preparing students for the ever-evolving digital landscape.

Take the next step in your digital technology journey and discover the possibilities of the future!