Independent review backs builder training standards
Independent review backs builder training standards
1 April 2003
An independent review of the Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation (BCITO) released today confirms the organisation's qualification packages are producing qualified tradespeople with the right level of skills required by the construction industry - satisfying the concerns highlighted by the Hunn weathertightness report.
The review also concluded that the BCITO adequately covers weathertightness in its training material.
BCITO Chief Executive Pieter Burghout says given the importance of the weathertightness issue, he is pleased with the review's vote of confidence.
"The public can be assured that today's building and construction tradespeople are being trained to the required standard. Obviously we are pleased with the independent review's findings, which includes recommendations for us to consider as we continue to lift the quality of our training.
"It is also imperative that the number of qualified tradespeople coming into the industry grows. Only 32% of the industry sectors we represent are trade trained - a number that needs to increase - and the industry already appears to be responding to that challenge. Last year we achieved 12% growth in trainee numbers, and this year we're forecasting a similar if not higher level of growth. We're working hard to ensure this trend continues."
Australian analyst Gavin Halling, of Best Practice Project Management (BPPM), managed the review. He concluded:
"The BCITO's Integrated Learning Package is a well-integrated package between theory, practical evidence and linkage with the standards. It adequately covers weathertightness, and while there are no specific units on this topic, it is not felt there should be".
The independent review was commissioned in November 2002 and a series of interviews were undertaken with representatives from the Registered Masters Builders Federation, Certified Builders Association, two large commercial builders, Polytechnic providers, private training enterprises (PTEs), Building Trades Union, Branz, the BIA and a number of builders and their apprentices.
The BCITO is the national body - recognised by the Government and appointed by the industry - to set the standards for qualifications and training for the sectors the ITO covers [carpentry, cement & concrete, floor & wall tiling, interior systems, proprietary plaster cladding systems, solid plastering, and "Health and Safety"]. The BCITO is currently training over 3700 trainees in these areas.