Competenz Welcomes New Apprenticeship Scheme

MEDIA RELEASE
25/01/2013

Competenz Welcomes New Apprenticeship Scheme

Raising the profile of apprenticeships through the newly announced New Zealand Apprenticeship scheme is a welcome first step in increasing apprenticeship numbers and helping ease a skills shortage says John Blakey, CEO of Competenz. “An increased subsidy to support apprentices of any age and the removal of duplication within the system allows more money to be invested in the front line and will help ease the considerable burden to companies who take on a four year training commitment.”

Competenz, an Industry Training Organisation, arranges training for companies within the manufacturing sector which includes mechanical engineering, baking, and butchery apprentices. “During the Review of Industry Training companies told us they wanted a simple one-size-fits-all apprenticeship scheme. It’s good policy and should genuinely add to apprenticeship numbers,” said Mr Blakey.

The announcements today come at the end of a lengthy review process which investigated the role of ITOs and the support needed by companies doing on-the-job training. “We know from research Competenz has conducted that companies want more pastoral care for apprentices and more support, both of which are addressed by Minister Joyce. The combination of a financial incentive and our ability to provide front line services should go some way to easing a skills shortage by boosting apprenticeship numbers," said Mr Blakey

ENDS

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