From 1 June new or redesigned programmes will be endorsed by WDCs.

From 1 June 2022 Programme Endorsement will replace Programme Approval, under the Education and Training Act, where Muka Tangata will endorse new or redesigned programmes developed by providers which lead to industry qualifications (non-degree vocational programmes at levels 3-7). This must take place prior to New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) approval.

This new approval process works to ensure that industry experts play a key role in the way programmes are developed for education and training. As the representative and standards setting body for the food and fibre sector, we are committed to supporting providers to develop and gain approval for high quality programmes.

Together, the six Workforce Development Councils (WDC), alongside NZQA, have developed the Programme Endorsement considerations, which differ from NZQA approval criteria. Muka Tangata WDC will focus on these considerations as they relate to the food and fibre industries’ vocational education and training needs:

• Programme content
• Equity for learners
• Programme engagement and consultation
• Te ao Māori
• Pacific languages and learners
• Disabled people

WDCs and NZQA have been working closely to acknowledge and reduce duplication, where possible, across the respective WDC Programme Endorsement and NZQA Programme Approval processes.

Programme developers are encouraged to engage early with Muka Tangata to work through the programme endorsement considerations when reviewing and creating new programmes.

Programme Endorsement information together with the application form will be published on our website prior to 1 June.

 

How to be in touch – [email protected]