From Student placements to Mission Kaimahi

Every year, students come through the doors of Auckland City Mission - Te Tāpui Atawhai wanting to learn. Many leave with something more - a deep connection to our kaupapa, our people, and our vision for a more just and compassionate Tāmaki Makaurau.

This year, thirteen social work students completed placements with the Mission. For many, including Aimee (pictured), that placement became the beginning of a longer journey walking alongside whānau experiencing homelessness, addiction, and hardship.

Our student placement programme is a vital part of how we grow and sustain our workforce. It offers students meaningful, hands-on experience in frontline social services - and helps us nurture the next generation of Mission kaimahi who are committed to holistic, mana-enhancing care.

This year’s impact:

Five students have stepped into permanent roles across Street to Home, Supportive Housing, Social Detox, and Te Whare Hīnātore

Three others are now working with us in casual roles while they complete their studies

Two students will return for a second placement in 2026

These outcomes matter. They mean continuity of care for whānau, strong teams on the frontline, and a Mission that can keep responding to complex need - today and into the future.

Aimee’s story

For Aimee, her student placement offered far more than practical experience. It led to a permanent role as a Housing Key Worker with Street to Home - supporting people as they move from homelessness into stable housing.

“Before I started my placement, I did my research on the Mission,” Aimee says. “It was everything I was looking for - the holistic way support is offered, and the range of services all working together.”

During her placement, Aimee shadowed key workers, attended case reviews, and gained insight into the many realities faced by the people we walk alongside.

“I saw how the organisation works, the different ways staff support people, and the many forms homelessness can take. I learned about mental health, addiction, housing, and support for older people - all in real-life situations.”

She was surprised by just how wide the Mission’s reach is.

“Most people don’t realise how much the Mission does. There are so many opportunities - from Social Detox and Street to Home, to Food Security, front-of-house, and transitional housing.”

But for Aimee, the greatest impact came from the people.

“The highlight was the people you meet - both the team and the whānau. Everyone works differently, connects differently, and that’s such a gift as a social worker. You meet people from all walks of life, and you really see how tough things can be.”

While the work can be confronting, Aimee says the support and training make all the difference.

“At uni, so much is theoretical. At the Mission, you’re learning in the real world. I feel incredibly lucky to have done my placement here - I learned so much in just three months.”