ITPs get behind Christchurch

Press release by Wellington Institute of Technology

Six large urban Institutes of Technology and Polytechnics say they are committed to helping Christchurch rebuild.

Led by the Christchurch Polytechnic Institute of Technology (CPIT), the Metro Group – the consortium of the six institutes from around NZ – says it wants to work with the Government and industry to train the people needed to restore Christchurch.

The Metro Group currently trains many people for the construction and related trades, such as plumbing, engineering, carpentry and masonry – all skills that will be in short supply in Christchurch.

Dr Linda Sissons, Chair of the Metro Group, says: “[Our] capacity to deliver training is extensive and we have a national network of employers that we work closely with.”

As the current trades programmes are full, Metro Group can offer short training programmes or pre-trade programmes, which will prepare people for apprenticeships.

Once the Government and the industry have defined their requirements, students can train in Christchurch with CPIT or through other campuses around NZ.

Sissons says, “We have the workshop space to accommodate more training – particularly in the evenings and at the weekend.

“Subject to funding being made available, we have a ready pool of trades people to recruit from to help train students to rebuild Christchurch.”