Teens thrive on discipline at Services Academy

Te Puke High School's new Services Academy is helping teenagers develop discipline and structure, with the programme incorporating values of courage, commitment, comradeship and integrity. The school is one of 28 across the country funded to offer the programme, which has strong links to the New Zealand Defence Force's Youth Development Unit.

Twenty Year 12 students recently spent 12 days at Whenuapai Air Base with other students from similar programmes, participating in intense training including physical fitness, parade and drill, team building activities, leadership training, and confidence courses. Academy director Shane Gillum said the programme isn't just for those with defence force career ambitions, but any student who would benefit from a more disciplined and structured way of learning.

Students reported positive outcomes from the camp experience. Carlos de Paiva noted improved discipline since returning, while others highlighted the early morning activities, team building, and relationships formed with peers from different schools. A Year 13 programme also prepares students applying for the military.

Originally published in Te Puke News by Sun Media.