Brent Win, an Invercargill teacher and former Navy member, says a recent Defence Force camp has provided him with the expertise to better advise students on career options aligned with their skills.

Mr Win, a secondary school teacher at Aurora College, was one of around 30 educators who took part in the School to Skies/Seas teachers’ live-in camp hosted by the Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN) and Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF).

The camp offers teachers of Years 5 to 13 students insight into the world of the NZDF.

Over six days at Devonport Naval Base and RNZAF Base Auckland, they were given hands-on experience in the maritime and aviation industries, designed to provide them with new educational tools and ideas, as well as demonstrate career opportunities for their students.

Mr Win, Ngāruahine and Te Atiawa, grew up in Taranaki and joined the RNZN after finishing at Opunake High School.

More than three decades on from his own time in the Navy, he was impressed by the extensive array of career pathways available across the Defence Force.

Mr Win said the Navy, Army and Air Force were able to effectively switch between a wide range of activities.

“It highlights the clear leadership and disciplined collaboration required to execute complex tasks, ranging from defence operations to emergency humanitarian aid.”

Mr Win said if his students asked him about the modern Defence Force, he would talk up the vast amount of trades available and the transferable skills that can be gained.

Brent Win (second from left) and teachers pose for a group photo behind a C-130J Hercules. Photo: Supplied

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 “There is exceptional support for career progression combined with financial stability, debt-free education, full healthcare benefits and cost-effective housing options.”

He said he would take some aspects of the course back to the classroom to use with his students.

“I liked how they demonstrated strong organisational skills by adhering to workshop protocols, such as utilizing a tool tagging system to ensure all equipment was tracked and accounted for.”

The teachers had some long days, from 6am to 8.30pm, but it was worth it, he said.

“The chance to fly in the C-130J Hercules and tour HMNZS Aotearoa were distinct highlights of the experience.

“It was an invaluable opportunity to reconnect with former comrades after 35 years. I was thoroughly impressed by the professionalism displayed by both services and the hands-on experiences provided.”

When asked to rate his experiences out of 10, Mr Win said “I would give a score of 10 for all of them.”