UCOL course axed
The axe has fallen on the longstanding UCOL Diploma in Performing Arts, which the tertiary provider’s management has deemed ‘‘unviable’’.
UCOL’S creative industries head of school Rachel Hoskin said it was a hard decision to make, but one that had to be done.
‘‘We have had some issues with the programme during 2016. Retaining staff was a big one, the reducing student numbers was another one. So obviously, with all of that in play, the programme became unviable.’’
The number of students enrolling in the course has reduced over the years from a high of 20 to this year’s five. Hoskin said this year’s graduates were consulted.
‘‘The issue that we were facing was making sure that the students that were coming out of the programme were having a good educational experience and that really diminishes when there is such a small number of students. It can make that experience very different and in some cases, not so great. We wanted to make sure we weren’t putting anyone in that position.’’
Graduate of the 2015 course Catherine Bradley said she was saddened by the news.
‘‘It was a unique course on so many levels and very accessible to all walks of life.
‘‘So many people have benefited from this course, springboarding them into a world of professional performing – globally, for some. Immersing myself in performing arts for a year was lifechanging. It is a massive shame that others will not have this unique opportunity any longer.’’
Hoskin said the curriculum would have been deemed redundant by the end of 2017 under the mandatory review of qualifications put in place by NZQA, and if the course was restarted, it would have to be redesigned.
‘‘I would like to see if we could have something resurrected or written by the beginning of 2018. We wouldn’t want to be late players, so would want to get something implemented as soon as we can. But we need a year to analyse things and make that decision and write something that is excellent.’’
Hoskin said she was fairly confident a course would be reinstated, but it may take a new direction.
‘‘It’s sad that this programme has gone, but this is not the end. It’s not the end of the story and we hope people are excited for the future.’’