MEDIA RELEASE – 25 August 2011
Wellington Institute of Technology – Second Highest Qualification Completion Performer in New Zealand
WelTec again sits among the country's top Institutes of Technology and Polytechnics (ITPs) in results published by the
Tertiary Education Commission today for qualification completion, progression to higher study and students retained in
study.
“We are delighted that WelTec has been rated second in New Zealand amongst ITPs for qualification completion - the most
significant measure both for individuals who want to equip themselves for their careers, and for employers to whom it
sends a clear, positive signal,” says Dr Linda Sissons, WelTec’s Chief Executive.
“Research shows that qualification completion really matters. Young students who complete their qualification earn 29%
more than those who leave without completing. Completing all or most of the courses within the qualification also makes
a difference to earnings, but not as much as completing the qualification overall,” says Dr Sissons quoting New Zealand
Institute of Economic Research report currently in preparation.
“Our educational performance results for 2010 show an improvement over 2009 and we know we are tracking ahead of the
2010 figures so far this year.
“We have worked hard to ensure our students do well. Just completing an enrolment form and turning up for class has
never been good enough for us. We offer specialised mentoring for Maori and Pasifika students and for our young
learners. Our Maori students on our Tamaiti Whangai programme are actually outperforming their peers,” says Linda
Sissons.
“Ensuring our students are retained in study so that they complete their qualification is our priority,” says Linda
Sissons. This is reflected in WelTec also achieving the second highest result amongst ITPs for students retained in
study.
"These good results also reflect what other recent external surveys have revealed about WelTec,” said Linda Sissons. “In
an independent survey conducted earlier this year 9 out of 10 Wellington employers told us our graduates are work ready
and that our qualifications are relevant. Employer feedback is very important to us.
“These results, along with the continued support of employers, means we are well-placed to deliver the training required
to meet the needs of industry This is particularly important for the building and construction sector which is
forecasting a considerable skills shortage next year off the back of the Christchurch earthquakes and leaky homes”, says
Linda Sissons.
ENDS