MIT Trades Academy launches

MIT Trades Academy launches

Manukau secondary school students have a new route to educational success, with the launch of Manukau Institute of Technology's (MIT) Trades Training Academy (MITTA).

MITTA was officially launched by the Associate Minister for Tertiary Education, Skills and Employment, Hon Louise Upston on Monday 16 March, at Manukau Institute of Technology's Dine Restaurant. Representatives from Auckland Council, local secondary schools and industry partners also attended.

The programme enables students in years 11, 12 and 13 to study simultaneously at MIT while at secondary school, achieving vocational credits towards both NCEA and their MIT qualification.

The MIT Trades Academy is one of several initiatives designed by MIT's Centre for Studies in Multiple Pathways to bridge the gap between high school, higher study and employment.

"Traditional pathways to tertiary study don't work for everyone," says Centre Director, Dr Stuart Middleton. "We want to break down the barriers to further education. Our overriding goal is to keep students engaged by offering choices in the way they learn, and practical, hands-on learning experiences."

Students continue to attend high school four days a week and spend the remaining day at MIT.

"Our students use industry-standard equipment and learn from tutors who have on-the-job as well as educational experience," says Middleton. "They do hands-on work and achieve credits in their chosen field, while completing their secondary education."

MITTA opened its doors in February, offering 12 programmes including carpentry and electrical, engineering and CAD, engineering and refrigeration, automotive, floristry and hospitality. The first intake of 214 students has been drawn from 18 secondary schools in South Auckland.

The programmes are delivered fee-free thanks to funding from the Ministry of Education and the Tertiary Education Commission. MITTA students are provided with all necessary equipment and safety gear and in some cases, transport to and from the Academy.
ENDS

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