At UCOL, we believe that learning is not confined to classrooms. Our programmes focus on developing practical knowledge, working with industry experts, and encouraging students to use their skills through internships, practicums, and special projects. This approach means that students gain the experience required to face the real world while they complete their studies.
Below are some of the key initiatives that connect UCOL students with the community.
The Workhub
UCOL Workhub connects students with local businesses and organisations. It provides a real-world employment opportunity that enables students to practice what they’ve learned and helps them hone their skills. Under the Workhub banner, all the faculties—Creative, Business & ICT, Trade, and Health & Sciences—share their students’ success stories and information on how local organisations can connect with the UCOL talent pool.
Talk to your lecturers about how you can find an internship, work placement, apprenticeship or project through Workhub.
See the Workhub website to learn more.
The Restaurants
UCOL runs two training restaurants—Ambitions in Palmerston North and Visions in Whanganui. These restaurants are open to the public and are well-regarded for their quality food and services. Managed by the UCOL Chef Training and Hospitality team, our restaurants provide students with a wonderful learning opportunity in all aspects of culinary science and hospitality.
See when the restaurants are open and book a table to check out our Chef and Hospitality students in action -
Ambitions and Visions.
Hair and Beauty Salons
Every year, UCOL Hair and Beauty students get to provide hair, beauty and nail treatment to the public through the Hair and Beauty Salon at our campuses in Palmerston North, Whanganui and Wairarapa. These salons, managed by the Hair & Beauty School, meet the very high standards of a professional salon and have the best equipment and products at their disposal. This hands-on experience helps students to develop the confidence and customer management skills required for entering the industry.
Try our Hair and Beauty Salon in Palmerston North, Whanganui, and Wairarapa to get a feel of the training environment and to get great beauty treatments at affordable prices.