New training model improves efficiency, retention and quality of care
An education model that makes learning central to everyday workplace practice is benefiting workplaces, trainees and
service users.
This finding was contained in independent research highlighting the wider benefits that come from investing in training
and workforce development. The research concluded that the embedded workplace based training model developed by
Careerforce in conjunction with the health and disability sector leads to personal and organisational development.
Careerforce CEO George Nimmo says that the embedded workplace based training model assists workplaces to develop a
culture of learning by making learning and assessment part of everyday work practice. Under the model, Careerforce
guides workplaces to align their infrastructure, policies and procedures with the learning requirements of national
qualifications, and supports the development of in-house training and assessment plans.
“Perhaps most significantly of all, the research finds that the end service user is benefiting from a more professional,
more efficient and better informed workforce. As a result they are receiving higher quality care and support,” says
Nimmo.
“The research shows that the workplaces that have embedded workplace based training have reported reduced employee
turnover, improved retention and have been able to attract higher quality applicants.
“Not only is the embedded model allowing more trainees to achieve national qualifications, but the research shows that
trainees are benefiting from increased confidence and job satisfaction. For many trainees it is their first
qualification as part of a career pathway in the health and disability sector,” says Nimmo.
The research was undertaken by Dr Rose Ryan of Heathrose Research Ltd and looked at the impact of the embedded workplace
based training model for the health and disability sector. It was commissioned by Careerforce (the Community Support
Services ITO Ltd).
Click here to read the research report: http://www.careerforce.org.nz
Quotes from the Research
“I’ve become very passionate about training… because I can see that when staff are well trained and well supported the
package of care will work better… If the training isn’t there it all breaks down – it doesn’t work for the client, but
it isn’t a good thing for the worker either. Training is the key to the success of the care.” Manager
“It is the on-job stuff that is what embedding is about. It’s not just doing the workbooks and ticking the boxes...you
can’t tell how capable they are just from that. It’s about how they do things and the way we transmit our organisational
culture.” Manager
“It’s very different from sitting in a class room. And by the end of that training they are so knowledgeable about how
we do things here... So we can say to them “okay, show me where our health and safety policy is and what it says” and it
makes them think about its your organisation, your policy – and suddenly they all know the things they need.” Manager
“I’m just heaps more confident. Knowing that you actually know what you are doing, and that they (employers and
clients) have the confidence in you as well... how it was before was that we didn’t know if there was a better way to do
something.” Trainee
“What they said about training at the interview definitely made me want the job more. Because it sounded really good, it
sounded really professional.” Trainee
ENDS