SCHOOL TO SKIES CAMPS

Are you a Year 13 female who has an interest in mathematics and science? New Zealand needs more women in the aviation industry as engineers, technicians, pilots and more! You have more choices than you probably realise.

Do you want to see if an aviation career in the military could be perfect for you?

We give 30-40 students from around New Zealand a chance to spread their wings and spend 6 days with us to find out.

Aviation offers something for everyone, whether you want to spend your days in the skies or keep your feet firmly planted on the ground! Our School to Skies programme is a technical and aviation camp that will give you the chance to find out so much more about our amazing workplace. The programme is a perfect opportunity for those who are passionate about STEM, but are unsure about their future pathway.

Applications are open to females in Year 13 from anywhere in New Zealand. We want those who are passionate about STEM and who are currently studying NCEA Level 3 (or equivalent) mathematics and science subjects, complimented by at least NCEA Level 2 English.

Who can apply?

Applicants must be:

- A female in Year 13

- Currently studying a Level 3 NCEA (or equivalent) mathematics AND science subjects, and

- Healthy with a moderate level of fitness.

Important note: We have no connection with Defence Careers/Recruiting and any application outcome will not influence an application into any Defence Career. The aim of the camp is to assist in transitioning Year 13 Women into a STEM Career pathway.

Applications for the 2024 Wahine camp are now closed please register your interest for the 2025 camp below.

One-Day Experiences

Are you curious about exploring an aviation career in the military? 

Even if you're ineligible for our foundation Wahine camp, you still have the opportunity to discover if this career path is right for you. 

Join us for our School to Skies one-day events, where we invite 10-12 students from the local area to spend the day with us, offering a condensed version of our camp experience.

These one-day experiences are open to a variety of age groups and genders, aim to break down barriers that may hinder individuals from pursuing careers in STEM or Aviation. 

Stay tuned on our Facebook page, website, and newsletter for updates on when applications open. 

If you are a STEM educator with a group of students who would benefit from this experience, a STEM enthusiast, part of a STEM group or a similar association, please reach out to us at ontheroad@nzdf.mil.nz. We may be able to provide a tailored one-day experience for your group, accommodating up to a maximum of 12 people.

*Please note that due to facility requirements, these events are currently only available at RNZAF Bases in Auckland, Ohakea, and Woodbourne, as well as locations in Christchurch and Invercargill. We are in the process of securing more alternative locations around the country.

Influencing our Influencers

Are you an NZ educator teaching science, technology or mathematics, or just really passionate about STEM in schools? Do you want fresh ideas to bring practical STEM learning back into the classroom?

Alternatively, are you a careers advisor helping students decide on their future pathways? Do you want to gain a better understanding of what opportunities there are within the Air Force and the broader STEM industry?

‘It’s the teacher that makes the difference, not the classroom’ – Michael Morpurgo

You are the role models, the ones who inspire and encourage. What better way than to teach from experience.

We offer 40 educators from across the country a fully immersive aviation STEM camp living-in on our Air Force and Naval base for a week.

- Gain hand-on experience in the aviation STEM industry to bring to life education ideas and career opportunities.

-Meet other like-minded educators.

-Mix and mingle at a dedicated networking event with industry leaders.

- Challenge yourself to gain insights and develop innovative ideas for your students.

Applications are open to NZ educators who work with students from Year 5 – 13.

Applicants must be:

- Passionate for STEM subjects, education or careers;

- Either:

- A New Zealand educator working with students from year 5 - 13;

- Working in a guidance, facilitation or support role with young adults in New Zealand;

- In their final year of study towards a teaching qualification, intending to work with students from year 5-13;

- Healthy with a moderate level of fitness.

Applications for the 2025 Teachers camp are now closed please register your interest for the 2026 Camp below