2024 Vocational education and training reforms

What this is about

The Government has committed to disestablishing Te Pūkenga and replacing it with a system that restores regional decision-making and connections between Institutes of Technology and Polytechnics (ITPs) and their communities.

The Government is seeking feedback on proposed reforms for three parts of the vocational education system through this consultation:

• A redesigned Institute of Technology and Polytechnic (ITP) network that retains access to ITP provision in regions, through a combination of stand-alone and a federation of ITPs.
• Options for an industry-led system for standards-setting and industry training.
• Changes to vocational education funding from 2026 to better support the reformed system.

Vocational education and training is a critical part of New Zealand’s education system. It helps learners to acquire the skills and knowledge needed for work in specific roles and industries and provides pathways into a wide range of careers including traditional trades, healthcare, service industries, information technology, food and fibre sectors, and community care.

Vocational education and training is a major contributor to the economic prosperity of New Zealand and New Zealanders. That’s why getting these reforms right matters, and why your feedback on the future of vocational education delivery in New Zealand is so important.

What this means for you

Students

Students, apprentices, and trainees, both domestic and international, can continue to enrol in vocational education and training courses with confidence. You will be able to proceed with your study through any future change process. If you have a local scholarship or are getting support with Fees from Te Pūkenga, this agreement will be transferred to your ITP.

If you are an international student, any approved visas and study arrangements will continue, and the courses and qualifications you are enrolled in will continue to be recognised.

If the changes go ahead as proposed in the consultation document, you are unlikely to notice any major changes in 2025. Students who finish studying or training in 2026 or later might complete their studies at a different organisation, but this will be managed to have the least possible impact on you.  You will be able to complete your program and all qualifications will still be recognised.

Industry and employers

Employers can continue to invest in vocational education and training for their staff with confidence that trainees and apprentices will be able to complete their programmes.

Whatever option is agreed for industry-led standard setting and industry training, the Government will work closely with education and training providers to support a smooth transition for employers, trainees, and apprentices.

Institutes of Technology and Polytechnics

The Government’s proposals will have an impact on many people who work in the vocational education and training sector and there will be significant change for some. Te Pūkenga’s provider divisions will transition into a set of ITPs that will focus on delivering the range of education needed in their regions and cities, and the work-based learning division will transition into new entities dedicated to managing apprenticeships and traineeships.

The ITP sector has not been financially viable for some time, meaning under this proposal there is likely to be significant change to the way that vocational education is delivered, the range of education provided, and how programmes are taught. ITPs will have to make the changes needed for their individual institution to operate in a financially sustainable way.

This would mean changes for current Te Pūkenga staff in both teaching and non-teaching roles. The Government recognises that this will create uncertainty for staff but intends that change and transitions will be managed in a way that minimises disruption for staff as well as students.

Workforce Development Councils (WDCs)

The Government has signalled an interest in exploring alternatives to the current model of WDCs carrying out standards setting functions. Following consultation and, subject to final decisions, there may be changes to some functions including fewer standards-setting organisations.  In the meantime, WDCs will continue to undertake their mandated functions, including any current reviews of qualifications and standards.

The Government acknowledges the expertise and experience of WDC staff and the desirability of retaining the skills and knowledge within the vocational education and training system. Once decisions have been confirmed, the Government will work to develop a transition process that can support WDC staff to form the core of standards setting in new organisations.

How you can find out more

The consultation document has all the information you need about the proposed reforms and the timeline for change.

Other meetings and events

There will also be meetings and other engagement opportunities where those interested in/or affected by the proposed changes can hear more. 

The Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) and Ministry of Education (MoE) will hold regional meetings to inform stakeholders of the VET proposals.

Meetings will be held in Whangarei, Auckland Central, South Auckland, Hamilton, Rotorua, Hawke’s Bay, Palmerston North, Taranaki, Wellington, Nelson, Greymouth, Christchurch, Dunedin and Invercargill.

The dates and locations of meetings, as well as details of how to register to attend will be published on TEC website.

Online events

To enable everyone to learn about the reforms, there will also be online events that interested people can attend.

What you need to know about submitting

The information you share in this consultation is being collected to further develop policy advice for the reforms of Vocational Education and Training. It will be used by the Ministry of Education, the Tertiary Education Commission, and the New Zealand Qualifications Authority for analysis of options and a report on the themes of submissions.

Official Information Act

Submissions may be subject to requests under the Official Information Act 1982, which requires the release of information unless there is good reason under the Act to withhold it. We will consult with you before releasing any information that you request not be published.

If you indicate your submission should not be published, please provide us with your email address so we can contact you in the event an Official Information Act request is received in relation to your submission.   

Demographic questions, such as your ethnicity or region, are optional and your response will not be published with your submission. This information is being collected solely for the purpose of analysis.

Find out more about the Official Information Act.

Making an official information request

Have your say

Consultation has closed. We would like to thank all those who sent in a submission with their feedback. 

All feedback will be analysed and summarised with the final outcome considered by the Government later this year. 

Details of the final proposals will be published on the Ministry of Education’s website, following Cabinet’s consideration and approval.