Polytechnic will provide no fee courses

Whitireia Community Polytechnic will provide no fee courses to support work readiness

Whitireia Community Polytechnic will provide a range of flexible training for firms participating in the Government's 9 day fortnight scheme and for anyone facing redundancy. No fees programmes will be provided in fundamental skill areas including computer skills, employment and study skills, CV preparation, office administration, retailing, hospitality, construction skills, Maori language and English for migrants.

These subjects are identified as important for the economic development of the region in tertiary services needs and gaps research. Foundation literacies, computer skills, technology, health and trade skills, service and business abilities are target areas of development identified in this report.

"Whitireia is responding to the government programme with a range of free training options. These are in areas of need for our communities says Don Campbell, Chief Executive. The 9 Day fortnight scheme provides a time for strategic investment in skills to support a recovery. Whitireia will be listening to its industry networks closely."

Whitireia has been working with WINZ, MSD, DOL and Grow Wellington to identify local and regional training requirements and to provide training for those who are unemployed or need further training to retain employment. Representatives are part of the Wellington Regional Labour Market Strategy.

Whitireia also offers vocational qualifications in a flexible manner to firms who sign up to John Key's "training on the 10th day" scheme. Whitireia Community Polytechnic was established in 1986 in Porirua to provide applied and vocational skills to those in need. It is noted for a high level of student success and completion. In 2009 Whitireia has over 11,000 students and is a national leader in health programmes including post graduate nurse qualifications, cultural and arts studies, foundation learning and life long learning, applied business, IT and technology and industry skills.

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