Canon Red Shirt applications are now open!
Hands-On at Otago is an annual week long programme in which senior secondary school tauira from all over New Zealand get to experience a snapshot of life here at the University of Otago Dunedin campus. During the week, tauira have the opportunity to participate in research projects, tasters and social activities in a safe and inclusive environment, which is fostered and maintained by the Canon Red Shirts.
Canon Red Shirts
Inspired by Canon’s iconic red, the Canon Red Shirts are a vibrant symbol of our partnership and a vital part of the Hands-on at Otago programme. University of Otago students in their 2nd, 3rd, and occasionally 4th year of study, provide peer-to-peer guidance, support, and pastoral care to secondary school students during the programme.
Canon Red Shirts responsibilities
At Hands-On at Otago, Canon Red Shirt responsibilities include:
- Pastoral care: Live in Te Rangihiroa College with the students for the week and be available as a first responder for students (similar to a Sub-Warden).
- Facilitate friendships: Help the students on their floor to make friends; ensure no-one is left out.
- Run the social programme: Work together to organise and run events (e.g. Games, Quiz, Dance).
- Transport: Drive vans of students safely and responsibly; or travel in buses to/from airport for arrivals/departures.
- Talk to school students about your studies/degrees/programmes; encourage interest in further study.
- Support Camp Managers and Assistant Managers at all times, being helpful, proactive and positive.
Hands-On at Otago 2027 will be running from Sunday 17 January to Friday 22 January.
Canon Red Shirts are expected to be onsite on the Saturday 16 January, ready for a 12pm start to assist with setup before students arrive on the Sunday and will finish up late afternoon on Friday 22 January. You must be available for all of that time. Please do not apply if you are attending Summer School, are on a studentship or have other commitments during that week.
You will be paid for your weeks work, as well as getting accommodation and three meals a day provided.
All Red Shirts will need to undergo a police check in order to comply with the Vulnerable Children Act 2014.
Canon Red Shirt applications deadline is midnight Friday 21 August 2026.
