New Zealand Equine ITO joins AgITO

The New Zealand Equine Industry Training Organisation (NZEqITO) has joined the Agriculture Industry Training Organisation (AgITO).

Continuing pressure on funding means it is more cost effective for NZEqITO to operate in AgITO’s framework. AgITO’s industry coverage has been extended to include the equine industry, including the thoroughbred, harness and greyhound racing industries. Equine Industry Training will operate as a business unit within AgITO.

“AgITO and NZEqITO already have a shared history of working together through the primary sector group of ITOs,” Kevin Bryant, AgITO Chief Executive says. “There will be no interruption of service to trainees or employers in the equine industry, and we anticipate that given AgITO’s larger size and access to resources, service provided will improve.”

Benefits to the equine industry include retaining the ability to deliver national qualifications to trainees, access to AgITO’s considerable expertise in resource development, policies and procedures, as well as support services not currently available to NZEqITO like information technology, qualification recording systems, finance, marketing and communications, qualification development and printing services.

“The integration of the NZEqITO within the AgITO is a great outcome which will provide a strong base for the extension of industry training throughout the NZ equine industry”, NZEqITO Chairman Greg Purcell says.

The number of staff employed is also set to increase, with AgITO looking to recruit up to three part time training advisers with knowledge and experience in the equine industry, improving the service delivered to trainees and their employers in the industry.

Off job training will continue to be delivered by training provider New Zealand Equine Education Trust (NZEET) and NZEqITO qualifications offered through other accredited providers and through Gateway programmes in secondary schools will continue to be available.

“AgITO is committed to supporting growth in the skills and knowledge of those in the equine industry,” Mr Bryant says. “We will continue to work proactively with and consult stakeholders in the equine industry.”