I have spent the last two terms on a work placement with Weir Contracting. This has involved spending Fridays on a farm in the Maniototo. I have learnt so much in this time from how to use tools, to livestock work and use of machinery. I have really enjoyed the practical hands-on learning and the physical nature of the work. I love being outside, working with the team and independently to learn new skills every day. I now know that I really want to gain an apprenticeship as a diesel mechanic when I leave school at the end of the year, because I would be able to service tractors and learn more about how they work. I would really like to thank Wayne, Matt and Michael for their time and effort they have put into teaching me over the year. They have been really supportive and are really good teachers. The highlight for me of the work placement for me to date has been driving big tractors. My Gateway Work Placement has been incredibly valuable and rewarding for me. It has allowed me to experience farming with new livestock and learning to drive big tractors.