ITOs workshop Workforce Development Councils

ITOs workshop Workforce Development Councils

Last updated 28 August 2019
Last updated 28 August 2019

Industry training organisations (ITOs) had a “robust and constructive” discussion as they explored the possible functions and coverage of workforce development councils, at a workshop hosted by TEC and MoE earlier this month.

Groups of people from ITOs talking to each other.

Education Minister Chris Hipkins has described the councils as having both a stronger regulatory role and being at the heart of skills leadership in New Zealand. 

TEC deputy chief executive Gillian Dudgeon and MoE acting deputy secretary Grant Klinkum, led the workshop, kicking off the start of the design and development phase of setting up the councils. 

“We are keen to visit and talk with industry training organisations and their employer groups as part of this process,” said Gillian. “Industry needs to take strong ownership in the councils as they are vital to the success of the Reform of Vocational Education.”

There will be four to seven industry-governed councils set up from 2020 onwards that will give industry greater leadership across vocational education and training. Industry will be able to decide whether programmes are fit for purpose and meet the skills shortages which are so apparent in New Zealand.

The starting point for discussion of industry coverage areas for the councils appeared to get general support from ITOs. The industries mirror the current Vocational Education Pathways of manufacturing and technology, construction and infrastructure, primary industries, services Industries, social and community services and creative industries. However, this workshop was only the first of many discussions to be held on coverage areas.

The Minister has also committed to an ongoing dialogue about councils, not just with industry training organisations but also with private training establishments, wānanga, and industries and employers not covered by an ITO.