On-job training

• Training occurs while working

• You learn Practical skills of the trade from your employer

• We provide training and assessment guides to support the learning process.

The NZHITO on-job training has been developed to mirror current workplace practices and support correct job techniques. When your employer or trainer thinks that you have gained competency in a particular skill or knowledge area they will sign you off on that particular unit standard, and send it into the NZHITO. This is how you will gain formal recognition for that section of learning.

Off-job training

• Training occurs outside the workplace

• You learn theory and specialist skills with specialist tutors at your local polytechnic or other appropriate venue.

Off-job training has been developed to cover learning that is more easily or appropriately taught off the worksite, this can be either theory or practical based learning. Off-job training can be focused on specialist industry areas or on more generic horticulture. Your competency is generally judged by your tutor at the off-job training event, however sometimes you may be required to complete further work, study or produce more evidence to complete the unit standard. Your tutor will report all results are reported directly to the NZHITO.

The type of off-job training that you do will be determined by the industry you are in and the requirements of your workplace. The actual off-job training could be in the form of single or multiple training days, evening tutorials, or even block courses.

Whatever the nature of the off-job training it is the expectation of the NZHITO that if needed, the employer will be able to release you from their normal work duties to attend these days. It is anticipated that in a full three year apprenticeship the off-job training component will be between 10 – 15 days per year. Ask your local NZHITO Training Advisor for more details.