Building with future generations

It is widely acknowledged there is a shortage of apprentices in the construction industry. An initiative developed by the government will make it easier for employers to gauge the suitability of school leavers to their respective trades

Developed by the Ministry of Education in collaboration with industry and education, Vocational Pathways launched in April 2013 as part of the government’s Youth Guarantee initiative, to better align and prepare students for further study, training or work. Vocational Pathways is particularly useful for the construction industry. Students wanting a future in construction can identify their interest early; this also helps them build an appropriate skillset before beginning an apprenticeship – making it easier to shape them into future industry captains.

Approximately 70% of school leavers do not enter degree-level study, with many looking at alternative options and careers via a different route. Vocational Pathways provides a new way to structure and achieve NCEA Level 2. The pathways show how their learning is relevant for a wide range of jobs and study options in six broad sectors of industry.

“Increasing the number of young people leaving the education system with qualifications will make a positive contribution to the future labour market

Why were Vocational Pathways developed?

As part of its Youth Guarantee programme, the government has set a target that 85% of 18-year-olds will have NCEA Level 2 or equivalent in 2017. Increasing the number of young people leaving the education system with qualifications will make a positive contribution to the future labour market. NCEA Level 2 is now regarded as the minimum qualification required to enter and progress to further study, training or work.

How do Vocational Pathways work for learners?

With more than 600 credits at Level 2 now structured and colour-coded within Vocational Pathways, learners can plan their journey from school to employment knowing what skills, attributes and knowledge they need to enter their chosen industry.

Learners use an online Profile Builder to plan a Vocational Pathway into a particular industry.

Achieving industry-related credits means learners are fully informed of what they need to achieve at school to progress to the type of work they are interested in.

“The next time you’re talking to a school leaver about an opportunity in your industry, ask to view their Vocational Profile

How can employers use Vocational Pathways?

Once someone is studying at NZQA Level 2, they will have access to a Vocational Pathways Profile. This is a visual, colour-coded graph that shows their achievements against each Pathway.

The graphic makes it easier for employers to see a snapshot of industry-related achievements compared to a Record of Achievement, which is just a long list of unit standards.

The next time you’re talking to a school leaver about an opportunity in your industry, ask to view their Vocational Profile. You can see what pathways they are interested in, and quickly assess how they relate to your business. If the learner has planned to enter the construction and infrastructure industries, their Pathways Profile (in orange) will show industry-relevant knowledge and skills.

 

About BCITO

Working closely with industries to provide support and meet training needs into the future, BCITO is geared up for an increase in trainee numbers and is eager to hear from any employers ready to begin taking on extra capacity. If you want someone young and fresh to help you out who’ll become a valuable member of your team and the industry give serious thought to hiring an apprentice now.  BCITO may even be able to help you find the most suitable candidate.

To learn more about apprenticeships and nationally recognised qualifications visit www.bcito.org.nz or phone BCITO on 0800 4 BCITO (422 486).

You can be sure that if someone has achieved a Vocational Pathway in your sector then they will have a strong base to help them succeed.

Detailed information for employers about the Vocational Pathways can be found at: www.youthguarantee.net.nz/vocational-pathways/employers