A new Continuing Professional Development (CPD) system for plumbers, gasfitters and drainlayers has been developed which took effect this year.
While there were many good aspects of the previous system, there were also a number of problems.
In particular, there were significant variations in the quality and cost of the courses provided.
Many tradespeople were critical of the fact that the previous system had developed into a points gathering exercise and a product forum for some suppliers.
Now, instead of relying on product manufacturers to produce courses that the industry can choose from, CPD training has moved to a more resourceful and consistent approach.
The scheme, developed in conjunction with a stakeholder group made up of industry representatives and associations, has lifted the overall quality and uniformity of training for the industry.
Under the new system, every tradesperson now only completes one mandatory training session a year, either online, or by attending one of the 45 sponsored training days.
The 45 sessions, which run throughout New Zealand during June, July, August and September, are in partnership with Mico Plumbing and Bathrooms.
The Skills Organisation develops the materials for the sessions which are delivered by trained presenters.
Scheme has been positively embraced
As well as reducing the cost for tradespeople, this CPD model and the associated partnerships help the industry stay abreast of key issues, and ensure the overall quality and content of the new approach.
The New Zealand Plumbers Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board (PGDB) is pleased to see the successful launch of the scheme has been positively embraced by the industry.
Selection and topic development for the training to be delivered in 2017 is currently underway.
The PGDB is seeking industry feedback, and all suggestions on potential topics can be forwarded to [email protected].
