News from Waihanga Ara Rau
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Tēnā koe
We are well into our 2024 mahi, with much reflection and planning going into the first part of the year. Our reflection on 2023 looked at how we were engaging with providers and undertaking our legislative functions. Overall, we think 2023 was a successful year for the Assurance Team, and we have enjoyed the collaborative discussions with all providers. Thank you for being willing to try something new. The outcome has certainly been positive.
Spotlight on the Education (Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Learners) Code of Practice 2021
It’s no secret that wellbeing is linked to academic success. A focus on wellbeing benefits the learner, their families, and their communities. Good pastoral care also benefits the provider, with better retention and achievement rates and a positive reputation.
This spotlight looks at the Education (Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Learners) Code of Practice 2021 (‘Code’) – a code developed by the Ministry of Education. It sets out the expectations that tertiary education organisations and schools enrolling international students must meet for learners’ (i.e. domestic and international) safety and wellbeing.
Trades Essentials micro-credential is now available
Waihanga Ara Rau and Hanga-Aro-Rau are pleased to announce that a new Trades Essentials micro-credential is now live on the NZQCF. A big mihi to industry and providers, who have helped to develop this micro-credential. You can now develop a programme to deliver this micro-credential.
Review of Infrastructure Single Site Supervision qualification
We’re developing skill standards and reviewing qualifications for infrastructure site supervision pathways.
Skill standards will become the ‘building blocks’ that support the recognition of skills valued by industry and enable qualification pathways with the right balance between flexibility and consistency.
Infrastructure and Electrical Standards
We are the Standard Setting Body for Electrical and Infrastructure standards and are looking to revamp how we moderate these standards in schools. In term 2, we will run three pilot clusters focusing on Unit Standards 18239, 18242, and 18243. Keep an eye out for your invitations soon.
If you teach these standards in your schools, we would love to hear any comments, queries, or suggestions you have. Email us at moderation@waihangaararau.nz.
Helping women connect with work in the trades
There are several fantastic websites and groups that help women connect with work in the trades. They are worth looking at if you are keen to encourage women to train for the trades and promote your programmes to women. A number of these groups also run events across the motu that could provide an opportunity for you to attend.
Provider feedback welcome
We are always grateful for feedback on how we can support you as providers. We would love to hear from you if you have any comments, queries or suggestions! We would also like your thoughts about professional development sessions that can support your day-to-day mahi. Email us at moderation@waihangaararau.nz.
Meet our team members Deanne and Jeremy
Deanne Decke
I have spent over 20 years working within education, starting with staff training and tutoring roles, then curriculum and learning resource design, before moving into quality and compliance. My most recent role was as a Quality Manager for a PTE specialising in transport, infrastructure and workplace health and safety.
I am especially interested in advancing the learning and development of adults, including second-chance learners and those facing literacy and numeracy barriers.
I enjoy living in the sunny Bay of Plenty, making the most of the outdoor lifestyle and coastal location through my sports, rowing and dragon boating, and the many walking tracks and trails.
Jeremy Busby
My education career started in the primary school sector. I then moved into second-chance foundation adult learning, working with long-term unemployed transition-to-work programmes. I eventually specialised in adult literacy, language and numeracy education (LLN). I then spent five years with the New Zealand Defence Force as an LLN facilitator.
My quality assurance journey started with the former ITO Skills Active in 2017. I joined Waihanga Ara Rau in May 2022.
Outside of work, umpiring cricket fills most of my leisure time. Some say it is my hobby. I say it is my passion. I started umpiring in November 1979. As well as an on-field practitioner, I am one of our national coach leaders. I am proud to be an honorary life member of the Canterbury, Wellington, and New Zealand cricket umpire associations.
