With an annual turnover of $100 billion, the construction sector employs 20% of New Zealand’s workforce with over $17 billion in salaries.
With the Government in the closing stages of determining future structures for vocational education and training to be rolled out this year, calls have been made for ‘enduring solutions’ for apprenticeship training.
“On behalf of industry, BCITO is calling for effective and enduring solutions to apprentice training that recognise the value and uniqueness of the employer and apprentice relationship in workplace learning,” says BCITO in its Building People report.
On 27 January, the next round of consultation on the future of vocational education in New Zealand opened. Feedback on Options for the future of Work-based Learning closed at 5pm on 21 February, with decisions expected in April.
This consultation looked at two options for the future of Work-based Learning Divisions (formerly ITOs) that the Government is considering. One option was consulted on in 2024 and the other was a new model for consideration.
Construction training update
The construction sector is critical to the economic success and wellbeing of New Zealand, says the 2024 wrap up report entitled Building People. “With an annual turnover of $100 billion, the sector employs 20% of New Zealand’s workforce with over $17 billion in salaries. The value proposition of construction is straight forward.”
Over the past two years, commercial activity has declined following a five-year period of significant growth, it says. “The market has now stabilised at a moderate level with areas of the country showing signs of growth... workplace training by industry has remained strong with employers conscious of the need to maintain high levels of skill and capability.”
On presenting the report, BCITO Director Greg Durkin said, "In a year of challenging market conditions, I am proud of the performance of BCITO staff in supporting apprentices, employers, and industry.”
BCITO has partnered with industry and government for 34 years to provide construction training. As well as a range of apprenticeships, the organisation offers leadership and specialist skills courses that allow employers to support their current workforce to continue to develop their careers.
“Skilled staff enable businesses to thrive in times of growth and adapt to changing market conditions. This is critical both to the industry and the wider economy. With existing high levels of demand for housing and buildings, our employers need even more trained people to meet demand,” says the report.
“Thank you to the industries, employers, and learners who choose to train with BCITO. Your commitment to construction apprenticeships and training makes a real difference.”
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