The growing recognition of the importance of vocational education alongside academic subjects in schools has inspired the announcement of the Prime Minister’s Vocational Excellence Award. This award aims to raise the status of vocational study and recognise the achievements of students excelling in vocational education. At end-of-year prize-givings, $2,000 in prize money and an award certificate will be presented to a top student who has demonstrated excellence in vocational studies.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern says this award is one of a range of new initiatives to make sure young people can transition easily and successfully into further training, a job, or study.

"To grow our economy we constantly need new, talented people entering careers in the trades, and contributing in our technology and creative sectors. The purpose of this award is to encourage more young people into vocational education and training, and to celebrate the achievement of secondary students enrolled in vocational programmes of learning."

For more information, visit the Prime Minister’s Vocational Award website.