ITF welcomes vocational pathways

5 April 2011

Vocational pathways linked to the NCEA will ensure more young people leave school with a clearer idea of what kind of job they want to do, Industry Training Federation Executive Director Jeremy Baker said today.

Education Minister Anne Tolley outlined the proposal in her speech to secondary school principals this morning. Mr Baker said it would also ensure that industry could expect more young workers that were more realistic about the skills that different jobs entailed and more prepared for any further education and training required to enter the workforce.

“In July last year at our annual conference, ITOs promoted the idea of clearer pathways particularly for the large majority of secondary school students who do not go to university. The concept was well received by many stakeholders, and I am delighted that government has taken the concept and seen how it clearly complements its Youth Guarantee objectives.

“By developing a broad range of vocational pathways, young people will not be pigeon-holed into a future job, but gain skills that usefully lead to a career in particular industries.

“It is a brilliant use of the NCEA that does not require major change to the system, but redefines how that system can be used more successfully.

“We look forward to working closely with government and other stakeholders as this policy is implemented,” Mr Baker said.

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