Before you jump in.

TestGround is in development. Faith Samuels is exploring customer needs, funding and the business arrangements for a commercial testing lab. The proposal introduces paid junior roles once work, funding and supervision are sufficient. Incorporation, contracts, insurance, dates and recruitment remain to be confirmed.

Young adults aged 18–24, including those facing financial disadvantage, neurodivergent people and others overlooked by conventional routes. The proposed entry model does not require a computer science degree. We will consider interest, willingness to learn, practical reasoning and individual support needs. An enquiry is not a job application or offer.

The proposed pathway has three phases from your start date: months 1–3 workplace and testing foundations, months 4–6 supervised manual testing, then one optional specialisation from month seven onward. AI, communication, practical problem-solving and systems thinking run throughout. Progress depends on readiness and support needs.

The proposed approach includes clear instructions, worked examples, manageable tasks and regular feedback, with different ways to show your learning. We’ll discuss individual support arrangements as the pilot is shaped, so learners can understand what is available before deciding to take part.

We’re starting with a community base in Christchurch, New Zealand, and building online connections. The venue and balance of in-person and online delivery will be confirmed as the pilot takes shape.

AI is part of how we plan to teach and work throughout the programme. Mentors would use it to adapt explanations and exercises; learners would use it to develop tests, explore ideas, prototype solutions and improve workflows. We aim to build proficiency and reduce repetitive effort so more time can go towards deeper learning, innovation and growth. Learners would measure the effect of changes on quality, effort or time, with human judgement and feedback throughout.

Solution thinking means defining a problem, exploring options, implementing a small improvement and checking whether it works. Systems thinking means understanding how people, processes, data and tools connect, so a change helps the wider situation. Learners would practise this cycle throughout the programme: understand, try, test, reflect and improve.

Mentors would guide AI use and review work. Initial practice uses demonstration software and fictional data. Client work requires agreed scope, authorised access and senior review; juniors would not have unrestricted access to sensitive production systems. Confidential information must stay out of unapproved AI tools.

Your response goes to TestGround for review. Faith will follow up about a suitable next step, such as an outline review, mentoring conversation or a discussion about resources. The community form is not a learner application or a request for payment.

The proposal is for paid junior employment, including required onboarding and training. Roles are not yet open; recruitment depends on confirmed work and funding. Continued employment requires sustainable work and resources. TestGround does not award accredited qualifications. ISTQB Foundation is an introductory testing certificate earned through a separate exam; preparation and exam support require agreed funding.

After foundations and supervised testing, participants could continue in testing or choose one future specialisation: automation, business analysis or delivery coordination. Each needs suitable mentoring, work and funding. Other career directions remain possible; workplace communication and problem-solving skills are transferable.

Business-to-business testing contracts are the intended long-term income source. Grants or workforce co-funding would support only expressly agreed eligible costs. Sponsorship and customer contracts are separate arrangements; no grants, sponsors or customer income are confirmed.