Work-based learning to become industry-led

Beginning next year, the Government will introduce a new, independent, and industry-led model for work-based learning, Vocational Education Minister Penny Simmonds says.

“Vocational education and training providers will be able to manage all aspects of an apprenticeship or traineeship at an industry level, rather than taking direction from a centralised behemoth.

“Industry representatives have made it clear that the current work-based learning model is not delivering because it has become overly centralised through Te Pūkenga. As a result, the training of apprentices and other workers is often disconnected from the realities of the jobs they are working towards.”

Simmonds says public and industry consultation clearly showed that the new model was the preferred option.

From 1 January 2026:

• New Industry Skills Boards (ISBs) will be set up to set training standards, endorse programmes and moderate assessments.
• Apprentices and trainees currently with Te Pūkenga will move to the ISBs for up to two years.
• New students will enrol directly with new work-based learning private providers, polytechnics, or Wānanga.
• ISBs will be able to enrol new learners until other providers are set up to deliver work-based learning.

MinEx, the national Health and Safety Council for the extractives sector, is welcoming the announcement.