Final Assessments Completed in Dive Review

6 July 2005

Final Assessments Completed in Dive Review

Final assessments of Government-funded dive qualifications have been completed, the Tertiary Education Commission announced today.

The TEC is now working with the education and training providers involved in the review to discuss how the outcomes will impact on their 2006-08 Profile submissions.

The purpose of the review was to ensure a better match between Government funded dive-related training and the demand for these qualifications in New Zealand's labour market.

"Dive qualifications were identified as an example of vocational education that has not always resulted in good employment outcomes for people," said Dr Colin Webb, TEC's Acting General Manager.

"The review found a clear need to sharpen the focus of those qualifications that are funded by the TEC. Consequently the likely outcome is a reduction in the volume of Government funded dive-related training in 2006 and a greater emphasis on employment outcomes and industry needs," Dr Webb added.

A number of dive-related industry areas have some potential for employment growth, including dive tourism, aquaculture, and underwater construction industries, so it is important to retain the capacity to train for these.

"The TEC will continue to work with providers to ensure the current and future skill needs of the dive industry are met. The government has made it clear, however, that hobby courses with poor employment outcomes are not a priority for Student Component (EFTS) funding," said Dr Webb.

Final decisions on the qualifications assessed as being of low relevance will be made as part of the Profile process, due to be completed in October this year.

The review is one of a number of education and training reviews currently being carried out by the TEC.

ENDS

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