Industry Training Update: Strengthening the Way We Deliver Short Courses
From 1 September 2025, all NZQA-accredited short courses delivered by Industry Training Works will align with new national guidance issued by Waihanga Ara Rau – the Workforce Development Council for Construction and Infrastructure.
This is a positive step toward greater consistency and quality in the delivery and assessment of industry training across Aotearoa.
What’s Changing?
- Minimum Course Duration: All short courses will be delivered over at least 8 hours, incorporating theory, hands-on practice, and a realistic assessment.
- Assessment Improvements: Assessments will simulate real-world workplace conditions, focusing on authentic skill demonstration and safety.
- Workplace Experience: Some courses now require learners to have verified workplace hours before completing assessments (e.g., truck loader crane, gantry cranes).
- Standalone Unit Standards: Courses that previously bundled multiple unit standards will now focus on one or two standards at a time, as per new guidelines.
What This Means for You
Over the coming months, we will:
- Gradually update our course materials and delivery formats.
- Work with employers to ensure workplace hours are accurately verified when required.
- Provide clearer scheduling and expectations for learners enrolling in specific courses.
- Keep you informed as updates roll out across Working at Heights, Crane Operations, MEWPs, and WTR (Wheels, Tracks, Rollers).
Working Together
We’re committed to making this transition smooth for your teams and ensuring every trainee receives high-quality, practical, and nationally consistent training. If your workers are planning to attend one of our affected short courses after September, please feel free to contact us with any questions about preparation or prerequisites.