New research supports industry training

www.itf.org.nz

New research supports industry training

The Industry Training Federation is pleased to announce the release of three new research reports to support industry training.

The first report, based on a survey of employers and Industry Training Organisations (ITOs), outlines what literacy and numeracy skills and knowledge employers are looking for in school-leavers.

Trends in Maori participation in training, the subject of the second report, provides an update to work carried out in 2005. “The 2006 update continues to show high levels of Maori involvement in industry training, with Maori making up 18% of total industry trainees,” said Jeremy Baker, Executive Director of the Industry Training Federation.

An overview of the developing skills leadership role of ITOs is the subject of the third report. “It is important for us to take stock of ITOs’ leadership role in the context of New Zealand and international understandings of the impact of skill development on economic growth,” said Mr Baker. “This report provides a good description of the evolving activities of ITOs working with their industries to lift workplace performance and productivity.”

“The Industry Training Federation is committed to linking decision making for tertiary education and training with a strong evidence base. This new research adds to a growing body of information produced by the industry training sector.”

“Recently released data from the Ministry of Education shows more New Zealanders are studying in the workplace than ever before. There are now over 160,000 industry-based trainees, including 8,400 modern apprenticeships. Having a well-informed understanding of the role of industry training is crucial to achieving a skilled workforce for New Zealand,” Mr Baker said.

The three new research reports can be accessed at www.itf.org.nz, or by contacting the Industry Training Federation at:

ENDS

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