Apprenticeship Reboot extension welcomed

For immediate release:

The Skills Organisation welcomes apprenticeship Reboot extension

The announcement of a further 4000 Reboot subsidy places for apprentices and trainees is a huge positive for New Zealand industry, according to the chief executive of one of the country’s largest ITOs.

Garry Fissenden, the head of The Skills Organisation - which arranges training for 11 specialist trades - said the government’s extension of the subsidy would encourage more Kiwis to become trade qualified.

“It also gives New Zealand business owners and their industries an expanded talent pool to choose from when hiring staff. It’s a win/win for all involved,” Fissenden said.

The Skills Organisation has dealt with 10 per cent of the initial 10,000 Reboot places instituted in March. The bulk of the ITO’s Reboot apprentices are from the plumbing and electrical priority trades.

“We’re currently fielding enquiries from all over the country,” Fissenden said. “The anticipated construction in Auckland and Christchurch is heightening awareness of apprenticeships throughout New Zealand.”

Fissenden said the days of vocational careers being seen in a poor light were long gone.

“Tradesmen and women are continually using up-to-the-minute technology, being faced with a wider variety of professional challenges and earning some great money at the same time,” he said.

“Earning while they learn is a huge benefit for apprentices - and the country. They don’t accumulate a student loan and make an economic contribution to New Zealand as they gain their qualification.”

The Skills Organisation encourages anyone considering a trade to call 0508 SKILLS to discuss how they can take advantage of the Reboot subsidy and set themselves up in a great career.

ENDS

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