Time to look to the past for trades training plan

I READ Jacqui Dean’s letter (ODT, 16.2.19) with interest.

Regarding trade training at today’s Otago Polytechnic, one cannot compare it with what the polytechnic provided to trade apprentices between 1970 and 1993.

Back then, trade training was totally based on a benchmark, known as the New Zealand Apprenticeship Training System. The trade apprentice was fully employed with a local employer, serving a four to fiveyear apprenticeship. The apprentice had to attend night school for two hours a week for the first three years, plus attend a threeweek block course.

At the end of the first year, the apprentice had to sit an external New Zealand Trade Certification Board theory trade examination, and in the second and third years, the same training and examination happened. In May the following year, the apprentice was expected to sit the eighthour New Zealand Trade Certificate Board practical external trade examination.

On passing each trade examination, apprentices received a rise in wages, and on gaining a Trade Certificate practical, they received 500 hours off their apprenticeship period.

This method of training is not done now in any polytechnic, nor do they have the trade certification board examination system.

It was one of the world’s greatest trade training systems. It is not now.

Don Sinclair Tahakopa Valley

[Abridged]

Hospital treatment

ON February 8, I had occasion to attend the day surgery unit at

Dunedin Hospital for a procedure. What a wonderful bunch of people work there.

From the time of arrival to departure, my husband and I were treated as if we were the only ones that mattered.

Many thanks to all staff, from admin and all the way to theatre. An absolutely awesome experience.

Sue Crosswell

Balclutha ...................................

BIBLE READING: Better a little with the fear of the Lord than great wealth with turmoil. — Proverbs 15:16.