New Zealand Equine ITO joins AgITO
The New Zealand Equine Industry Training Organisation (NZEqITO) has joined the Agriculture Industry Training
Organisation (AgITO).
Continuing pressure on funding means it is more cost effective for NZEqITO to operate in AgITO’s framework. AgITO’s
industry coverage has been extended to include the equine industry, including the thoroughbred, harness and greyhound
racing industries. Equine Industry Training will operate as a business unit within AgITO.
“AgITO and NZEqITO already have a shared history of working together through the primary sector group of ITOs,” Kevin
Bryant, AgITO Chief Executive says. “There will be no interruption of service to trainees or employers in the equine
industry, and we anticipate that given AgITO’s larger size and access to resources, service provided will improve.”
Benefits to the equine industry include retaining the ability to deliver national qualifications to trainees, access to
AgITO’s considerable expertise in resource development, policies and procedures, as well as support services not
currently available to NZEqITO like information technology, qualification recording systems, finance, marketing and
communications, qualification development and printing services.
“The integration of the NZEqITO within the AgITO is a great outcome which will provide a strong base for the extension
of industry training throughout the NZ equine industry”, NZEqITO Chairman Greg Purcell says.
The number of staff employed is also set to increase, with AgITO looking to recruit up to three part time training
advisers with knowledge and experience in the equine industry, improving the service delivered to trainees and their
employers in the industry.
Off job training will continue to be delivered by training provider New Zealand Equine Education Trust (NZEET) and
NZEqITO qualifications offered through other accredited providers and through Gateway programmes in secondary schools
will continue to be available.
“AgITO is committed to supporting growth in the skills and knowledge of those in the equine industry,” Mr Bryant says.
“We will continue to work proactively with and consult stakeholders in the equine industry.”
About AgITO
Agriculture ITO (AgITO) provides leadership in education and training, develops national qualifications, maintains
national standards and provides on-going support for their trainees and employers. AgITO training is subsidised by
industry and Government. For more information on our qualifications, please visit www.agito.ac.nz.
ENDS