No cost? It’s a no-brainer

Otago Polytechnic welcomes the Government’s decision to scrap fees for a wide range of vocational education programmes.

The Government this week gave more details about its Targeted Training and Apprenticeships Fund (TTAF), a $320 million programme that will pay costs of learners of all ages to undertake vocational education and training

Otago Polytechnic chief executive Megan Gibbons says the announcement provides more clarity for those considering applying to enrol.

‘‘We are currently examining a wide range of existing programmes as well as developing a broad suite of new programmes that align with the Government’s vision for the tertiary sector.

‘‘These include expanding programmes across our Dunedin and Central Otago campuses."

The range of free learning opportunities - with no eligibility requirements - include construction, engineering (mechanical, civil and electrical), horticulture, viticulture, agriculture, community support and architecture.

‘‘We will also expand on our secondary/tertiary pathway provision and Maori and Pasifika training," Dr Gibbons says.

Key points:

• The Targeted Training and Apprenticeships Fund (TTAF) will target support for areas of study and training that will give learners better employment prospects as New Zealand recovers from COVID-19
• Apprentices working in all industries will have costs paid
• High demand areas, including in regional New Zealand, targeted
• In many cases apprentices, trainees and learners at tertiary providers will save between $2500 and $6500 per year
• Apprentices and learners whose courses started earlier in the year but continue beyond 1 July 2020 will be eligible for a partial refund

Check out more information on the TTAF here

Read the Otago Daily Times article