AgITO: changes to delivery of pork production qualifications

AgITO announces changes to delivery of pork production qualifications

Staff training may be the last thing on many pig farmers’ minds as the industry continues to face many new challenges. However, partly in response to these challenges and in an effort to work with the farmers AgITO have announced changes to their Level 3 Pork Production qualifications. The revamped qualifications boast an increased amount of practical, on the job training – helping to reduce the amount of time trainees will have to spend off farm.

The Husbandry and Reproduction strands are designed for people working day to day at an operational level in the pork industry who wish to further their skills in pig husbandry and reproduction in an indoor or outdoor pork production unit. The courses are especially recommended for people who have the goal of becoming a Senior Stockperson.

The revised courses will now consist of just one day off job training which means less time away from the farm. The courses will be focused on learning through doing, resulting in continuous productivity on farm.

“We are committed to providing top qualifications to the pork industry. Training has a number of benefits for trainees, including faster career progression and the ability to gain a nationally recognised qualification at your own pace. For employers it means enhanced workplace productivity and profitability as well as increased employee job satisfaction and staff retention,” says John Bourke, Product Development Manager, Primary ITO.

Training is key to the resurgence of the sector as a skilled workforce is vital for growing the profitability, productivity and sustainability of the pork production industry in New Zealand. AgITO hopes the revamped Level 3 qualifications will have some affect in encouraging trainees and employees to sign up to training and equip pig production farms with the expertise they need to become productive and innovative businesses.

The first delivery of the revamped qualifications will take place in Christchurch during November this year.

To register for training or to find out more call 0800 242 343 or visit www.agito.ac.nz

About Primary ITO

On the 1st of October 2012, the Agriculture and Horticulture ITOs were merged to form the Primary Industry Training Organisation. The Primary ITO is also responsible for Water Industry Training, Equine Industry Training and NZ Sports Turf training making it one of the largest ITOs in New Zealand.

Primary ITO provides leadership in education and training, develops national qualifications, maintains national standards and provides ongoing support for their trainees and employers. Primary ITO training is subsidised by industry and Government.

For more information on Primary ITO please go to www.primaryito.ac.nz

ENDS

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