NZCB launches Apprentice Network

The New Zealand Certified Builders Association (NZCB) has launched its new Apprentice Network, designed to provide support to employers and apprentices 

The new scheme provides NZCB builders and their apprentices with wraparound support to ensure both parties have a positive experience during the course of learning.

The Apprentice Network aims to reinforce learning on the job for apprentices, while providing access to services and resources such as industry and network events, deals and wider professional development opportunities.

“The Apprentice Network is designed to complement the learning that apprentices receive through Te Pūkenga pathways,” said Nick Matthews, Industry Pathways and Apprenticeship Manager at NZCB. 

“Often, apprenticeships are seen as a way to learn technical skills, but through NZCB’s new network, we’ll be equipping apprentices with many other capabilities to help them in the industry, which is the extra support that, until now, has been missing in the building sector.”

Practical and mental support

The Apprentice Network won’t just provide practical, technical help. It will also provide apprentices with mental health services, as well as general health and wellbeing support to try and stem the tide of learners leaving the industry before they qualify, added Matthews.

“In our industry, we see lots of apprentices leaving before they get their qualifications. We hope that the Apprentice Network is a step towards addressing that, by providing apprentices with the additional support they need to finish their apprenticeships and go on to work in the industry.”

Apprentices aren’t the only ones who will be offered assistance through the programme. The service will also help employers to create a more supportive workplace via resources such as apprentice employment contract templates and insurance packages to more easily navigate the legal requirements of hiring an apprentice.

NZCB said the network also offers educational modules designed to help employers foster an effective learning environment. Known as ‘Train the Trainer’, the modules will support employers looking to hire an increasingly diverse range of apprentices, including more women.

Open to all NZCB apprentices

Any apprentice employed by a NZCB Business Member builder can join the Apprentice Network. Matthews added that he hopes the scheme will help to futureproof the flow of talent joining the construction industry.

“We hope that our members see this as an investment in their staff, and also the future of the wider building industry,” said Matthews. 

“The Apprentice Network, and other exciting changes that we’re working on, are great opportunities for us all to contribute to the next generation of Kiwi builders.”