Learning pipeline strengthened
Increased participation in Trades Academies is good for students, business and the economy, says BusinessNZ.
Trades academies, in conjunction with schools, teach vocational courses. The Government is adding 600 places to bring
the total places in Trades Academies over 6,000.
BusinessNZ Chief Executive Phil O’Reilly says Trades Academies help students begin careers in the primary sector,
building and construction and gain their NCEA.
“Trade Academies are part of the move towards vocational pathways that help young people transition more readily from
school to higher learning and work.
“Employers are very supportive of the work being done to ensure fewer young people drop out of the pipeline between
school and work. It is important for economic competitiveness that our education system equips all young people with the
knowledge, skills and capabilities needed for learning and employability across their lifetimes.
“We would like to see more being done in this area, to ensure students get a personalised learning programme for their
aspirations, better careers advice, and seamless learning - whether academic, vocational or a mix - across school and
tertiary providers.
ENDS