SJS Insights - Quarter Snapshot

Welcome to our first quarterly look at student employment in Aotearoa. We’re pretty excited to be sharing it.
At SJS, we see thousands of students and employers trying to find the right fit every day. That gives us a useful window into what’s happening: where opportunities are growing, where competition is tough, and how work fits around study. We want to share more of what we’re learning, because student employment deserves a bigger place in the national conversation.
There’s some encouraging news this quarter. Job listings on SJS grew 21% compared with the same time last year, with more employers opening their doors to students. Our team has been out building relationships and bringing in opportunities, from orchards to Christmas retail.
But students won’t need a report to tell them finding work is still hard. The number applying through SJS grew 36%, outpacing the growth in opportunities. More jobs are welcome. For many students, the search still takes persistence.
And getting a job is only part of the picture. Can you get there? Do the hours fit your timetable? Is there enough work to help pay the bills? Those details matter when you’re trying to earn and learn.
Behind every application is someone with something to offer, looking for a chance. A student job can help cover this week’s groceries and build the confidence, experience and connections that shape what comes next.
We hope this first report helps employers, educators and decision-makers understand that experience a little better, and spot opportunities to help.
Thanks for taking a look. There’s plenty more to come.