SIT to strengthen its presence in Queenstown

Southern Institute of Technology to strengthen its presence in Queenstown

SIT is poised to move its operations in Queenstown to another level with the recent SIT Council approval to establish a new campus at Remarkables Park in Frankton. The institution has provided courses out of rented accommodation in the town since the 1980s and this expansion is timely to meet the growing needs of Queenstown residents. Courses on offer at the new campus will encompass business, hospitality/tourism and computing and will enable Queenstown business and residents to take advantage of the SIT zero fees scheme.

“We are delighted to be bringing a wider range of tertiary study to Queenstown however we are very grateful for the support we have received over the years from the facilities supplied by Wakatipu High School," said Southern Institute of
Technology CEO Penny Simmonds.

With increasing rolls Wakatipu High School is under pressure for space as is SIT. The high tourism exposure means there is a requirement for service and training.

“ The time is right for us to establish our own space, “ says Simmonds. “ The number of international students coming to SIT has increased by 42 % this year and Queenstown is an incredibly attractive place for students to learn. It’s a wonderful way to experience New Zealand,” she said.

The new Remarkables Park campus will also be more accessible to local residents and has plenty of good parking, which is premium in Queenstown. The campus plans to be open in mid February 2009.

A recent award-winning graduate of the Invercargil based Certificate in Hospitality; Daniel Reynolds is currently working at the Remarkables Lodge in Queenstown. At only 18 years of age Daniel won gold in the kitchen at the prestigious Nestle Toque d’Or (Golden Hat) competition.

“ Our aim is to keep providing the industry with graduates the caliber of Daniel and this new campus is another plank in that plan, says Simmonds.

ENDS

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