Joint intiative with REAP Aotearoa will help enhance a range of skills
Support for regional construction apprentices lacking confidence with literacy, numeracy and other life skills such as driving a car or using a computer will be offered through a joint venture between BCITO Te Pukenga and REAP Aotearoa (Rural Education Activities Programme).
The partnership aims to tear down some of the main barriers that prevent trainees from completing their apprenticeships, providing support for those who live in rural communities.
Additional support needed
“As part of our eight-year programme in Workforce Development for the construction sector, we identified additional support was needed for our apprentices and their theory-based learning, particularly those living outside the main centres,” BCITO acting director Greg Durkin says.
“REAP Aotearoa provides leadership, support and educational opportunities across rural New Zealand.
“We’re really lucky we can tap into their network and provide a helping hand for those who need it.”
There are currently 13 REAPS around rural Aotearoa that BCITO apprentices and learners can join.
Variety of programmes
REAP offers a variety of programmes apprentices can benefit from — for example, driver education and licencing programmes, digital literacy and language programmes, including Te Reo Maori.
With around 21,000 learners enrolled in BCITO courses, almost 15% face challenges across literacy, numeracy and computing.
BCITO Te Pukenga training advisor Stuart Caulfield says some apprentices were struggling to upload images of their work, and using the MyBCITO computing platform.
“We can’t assume that everyone is tech-savvy, has a driver’s licence, or even has English as their first language,” Caulfield says.
“REAP Aotearoa has the expertise to support apprentices with all of these essential skills and more.”
REAP Aotearoa national director Tracey Shepherd says by facilitating meaningful and relevant opportunities for learners of all ages and stages, REAP Aotearoa enables people to stay connected, confident and independent.
“This support is crucial for their overall success in learning and life,” Shepherd says.
Support and camaraderie
“From bricklayers to the flooring industry, this initiative has united construction industry apprentices, encouraging them to meet up each week at REAP centres, fostering a sense of support and camaraderie between them,” BCITO Te Pukenga area manager for Canterbury North, Nelson and Marlborough Stefan Hartel says.
Initially launching in the Upper South Island, BCITO and REAP Aotearoa are excited to roll out the initiative to more communities across rural New Zealand.
