At present, TEC operates two approaches to recording delivery and allocating funding – provider-based delivery (Equivalent full-time student (EFTS) reported via SDR) and work-place learning (Standard Training Measures (STM) reported via ITR). The common unit of funding work aims to have a consistent approach across all modes and settings under the UFS.

In May, the team established a technical working group with representatives from Te Pūkenga, Workforce Development Councils, private training establishments, New Zealand Union of Students’ Associations, New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) and Ministry of Education (MoE). The group met several times and discussed the issues facing the sector around programme and qualification structures, shifting to a learner-centred system, and developing options for a common unit of funding.

MoE and TEC are now progressing work on potential solutions for the common unit of funding. This includes what this means for TEOs, what changes need to be made (and when) and any issues that will need to be resolved for implementation in 2025.

We expect to be able to provide further information later this year.