4,000 Apprentices: A Sign of Things to Come

Thursday, 28 July 2005

4,000 Apprentices: A Sign of Things to Come

Motor industry training in New Zealand has reached a significant milestone with the announcement of 4,000 apprentices currently in training with the NZ Motor Industry Training Organisation (MITO). A cocktail reception was hosted at Parliament by Hon Trevor Mallard, Minister of Education on Wednesday evening to celebrate this momentous occasion.

Modern Apprentice Braden Levers, of Matamata Auto Electrical and Wayne Robinson, his employer, were guests of honour as Braden is the 4,000th apprentice, having recently signed into an auto electrical apprenticeship.

Peter Hancock, Chair of MITO noted the great commitment to industry training of both Braden and Wayne and the many other employers and apprentices present. An apprenticeship he said, was an opportunity to lift the skill levels of the industry as a whole and was the beginning of a lifelong commitment to learning and the promise of a compelling and rewarding career pathway.

In light of the Government’s announcement today of funding for an additional 5,000 modern apprentices, MITO’s milestone of 4,000 apprentices currently in training is a strong foundation for future growth.

Janet Lane, Chief Executive of MITO, believes today’s announcements signals a real commitment to helping industry address skill shortages and providing New Zealand’s youth with meaningful tertiary pathways through workplace training.

“Of additional value is the government’s announcement of the extension of the Gateway programme to all state secondary schools. Young people need exposure to career options and this programme ensures they can make critical career choices while gaining recognised skills,” says Janet.

MITO is soon to release the National Certificate in Motor Industry Foundation Skills – Level 1 which is designed specifically for delivery by secondary schools. This innovative partnership approach with schools has been endorsed by an industry keen to recruit and develop talented young people.

ENDS

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