AgExcel endorsement extended to quad bike tutors

AgExcel endorsement extended to quad bike tutors

Endorsement by the training quality mark AgExcel has now been extended to agricultural vehicle training tutors, AgExcel evaluator Andrew Donohue says.
A group of nine tutors were evaluated as part of a pilot programme in November. The tutors have been awarded AgExcel endorsement for the quality of their quad bike, tractor, motorcycle and light utility vehicle training.

“These tutors have been recognised as having significant experience in using agricultural vehicles and teaching and assessing trainees in this subject,” Andrew says. “They also have excellent knowledge of the Department of Labour guidelines around quad bike use and general issues of on-farm safety in this area.

“People who wish to gain their Quad Bike Farm Licence will have to achieve it by training with an AgExcel endorsed tutor. We are inviting quad bike tutors from across New Zealand to apply for AgExcel endorsement.”

Tutors interested in gaining AgExcel endorsement will go through an evaluation process that looks at details of their experience. They will also be interviewed and observed teaching and assessing trainees.

Andrew says he expects the extension of AgExcel endorsement to individual tutors to have a run on effect in the industry, increasing the quality of training in the agriculture sector.
“This gives tutors something to aspire to and to continually develop themselves. It also means that trainees can be confident they are receiving quality training and learning what they need to know.”
AgExcel tutor endorsement will be extended to tutors of other agricultural programmes as well in 2012.

AgExcel recognises those who deliver superior quality agricultural training. It bridges the gap between basic quality assurance standards and the delivery of training and education that meets industry best practice requirements. The quality mark is endorsed by AgITO’s industry partners DairyNZ and Beef + Lamb New Zealand.

For more information about AgExcel, please visit www.agexcel.co.nz.
ENDS