The poultry industry places much emphasis on creating career pathways and opportunities for professional development amongst its members. Its success in this is recognised by the high number of industry staff with Level 3 and other industry training qualifications – the highest for any agricultural sector in New Zealand.
PIANZ, in conjunction with Primary Industry Training Organisation (Primary ITO), has developed nationally-recognised unit standards and qualifications for poultry meat chicken farmers. These include:
- Introduction to the Poultry Industry (Micro-credential) (Level 2) – develop a basic understanding of poultry production processes and of the requirements of the sector.
- NZ Certificate in Primary Industry Skills (Poultry) (Level 2) with strands in Egg Production, Hatching or Rearing – perfect for those entering the industry. Learn about poultry heath, biosecurity, handling, wellbeing and welfare of poultry, and health and safety skills.
Recently developed are four new vehicle Level 3 micro-credentials for staff who operate vehicles on-farm. These include:
- Operate a Tractor
- Operate an LUV
- Operate a Motorcycle
- Operate a Quad Bike
As of 1 July 2020, the Government will cover training fees until 31 December 2022 for training in many of our primary sector industries, including those mentioned above. Full details including eligibility can be found here: https://www.primaryito.ac.nz/apprenticeships/government-support/free-apprenticeships-and-training-2/
For more information email [email protected] or phone 0800 20 80 20 to talk to your local Primary ITO Meat & Fibre Training Adviser.