Eastern Bay Trades Academy (EBTA) is a trades-based programme focused on developing work-ready skills in local students. Students enrolled in the programme build houses during school hours, five days a week, under the guidance of Licensed Building Practitioners. They are also supported by apprentices who previously graduated from the programme, creating a strong mentoring pathway.

Through this hands-on learning environment, students gain NCEA Level 3 alongside practical construction skills, experience a real workplace setting, and develop professional relationships with local tradespeople. These connections can lead directly to apprenticeships and future employment opportunities.

We are currently based at both Ōpōtiki College and Te Kura o Te Whānau-a-Apanui and supported by Futures Academy. Many of the homes built through EBTA are sold to Kāinga Ora and used by whānau in need, often within the local community.

We began as a trades academy called Ringa Raupā in 2022 with the support of Whakatōhea and have since become an independent company.