BCITO launches micro-credentials

Learners and people interested in becoming a builder will now be able to undertake micro-credentials to give them a taste of the trades

In partnership with Waihanga Ara Rau – Construction and Infrastructure Workforce Development Council, BCITO Te Pūkenga has launched a series of courses that provide an introduction to construction, joinery, renovation, demolition, onsite assembly, interior lining and exterior cladding.

It’s hoped that the credentials will give learners a foot in the door and help apprentices kick-start their career in the trades.

“We have heard from our industry stakeholders that they need new and innovative ways to attract people into their workplaces,” said BCITO Te Pūkenga Group Manager Tom Jones.

“These micro-credentials offer learners an opportunity to see what a career in the trades could look like. The learning also counts towards an apprenticeship if the learner continues down that path.

“They are also great for people who are considering a career switch, providing introductory bite-sized bits of learning.”

Short and sweet

The micro-credentials take two to six months to complete, and assessment is carried out online using a variation of online learning tools.

On completion of a micro-credential, learners will receive New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) credits and a Te Pūkenga certificate.

Developed with Tertiary Education Commission funding, the micro-credentials are available now via BCITO. If other providers are interested in providing the micro-credentials themselves, they are welcome to apply to NZQA.

The bite-sized courses are:

• Basic Construction Skills (39 credits)
• Demolition and Renovation Skills (36 credits)
• Onsite Assembly Skills (32 credits)
• Introductory Interior Linings and Joinery Skills (25 credits)
• Introductory Exterior Envelope Skills (35 credits)

There are also one available in kitchen installation and one in insulation installation. Learner resources for the micro-credentials are available to providers free of charge by contacting Andrew Donohue at BCITO on andrew.donohue@bcito.org.nz.