The first 25 cadets to graduate from the Cadet MAX two-week induction course in Manukau this year were thrilled to be congratulated by the Minister of Social Development and Employment, Hon Paula Bennett.

The successful Cadet MAX programme is run as a partnership between the Ministry of Social Development and the Auckland Chamber of Commerce. It is designed to help school leavers with few or no qualifications, into work.

More than half of the 100 cadets, aged between 16 and 19 years, who took part in the programme in 2008, have secured permanent jobs.

Minister Bennett attended this year's first graduation event with Auckland Chamber of Commerce Chief Executive, Michael Barnett, and MSD staff. She is pictured with Mr Barnett and the several of the cadets.

The motivational induction course covers a range of subjects including literacy and workplace readiness. After it finishes, the Chamber helps the cadets into work experience opportunities with its members.