Rangatahi who once walked away from mainstream education are now passing qualifications and launching new futures at Native Tech, a Rotorua-based digital learning hub run by Digital Natives Academy.
Potential students and whānau are encouraged to attend Native Tech’s Open Day on Thursday 10 July, from 11am to 2pm to find out how they are getting rangatahi back into education.
Native Tech’s Foundation Level 2 course boasts a pass rate of 91.7%, with 75-80% average attendance. A remarkable achievement for a programme designed specifically for young people disengaged from traditional schooling. Even more impressively, 92% of those in our NEET programme go on to employment, further education, or training.
- Māori Learner Achievement at Level 1 = 94.44%
- Māori Learner Achievement at Level 2 = 92.31%
- In 2025 across all levels have a 88.24% completion rate.
Native Tech Co-founder Nikolasa Biasiny-Tule says the numbers tell a powerful story of belonging, connection and belief.
Our students previously didn’t engage in mainstream education. They either weren’t interested, didn’t feel like they fit in, or were bullied. Many had completely given up,” says Biasiny-Tule.
“At Native Tech, we offer small class sizes, a welcoming environment, and a team of registered teachers, industry trained tutors and youth navigators who support every learner holistically. We meet them where they’re at and help them thrive.”
“If someone in your whānau is aged 15–24 and isn’t in school, work or training, we would love to see them at our Open Day on Thursday 10 July. And if the student isn’t ready to come, parents and whānau are very welcome to attend on their own to see what we’re all about.”
Designed for 15–24 year olds, Native Tech blends digital tech, design, coding and gaming with NZQA qualifications.
One student, aged 17, says Native Tech changed everything.
“I didn’t go to school. I hated it. I felt like I was just surviving. Then I came here, and I’m actually excited to learn. Now I’m waiting for the doors to open every morning.”
Another says they’d never considered a future in tech until joining.
“I thought I’d be working retail or doing nothing. Now I want to build my own games. I’m learning real skills and people actually believe in me here.”
In addition to academic support, students receive pastoral care, help getting a driver’s licence, and assistance with writing CVs and cover letters. Support that makes a genuine difference.
“These are smart, creative young people,” adds Biasiny-Tule. “They just needed a space that saw their potential.”
- Native Tech’s next Level 1 course starts on 28 July, with spaces now open. Whānau, youth, and community supporters are encouraged to attend the Open Day on Thursday 11 July, from 11am to 2pm to find out more.
Free kai will be provided, and attendees can meet the team, explore the space, and try out the tech.
RSVP and more info: nativetech.ac.nz/learn-more