Simplifying vocational qualifications

Te whakamāmā i ngā tohu ahumahi

Last updated 5 January 2023
Last updated 5 January 2023

The New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) is working to simplify the design of vocational qualifications.

NZQA is the custodian of the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework and is responsible for ensuring that New Zealand qualifications are trusted and serve the needs of learners and industry.

This current work includes a redesign of the structure and components of vocational qualifications to enable seamless transition for learners between workplace, online and in-class study. It also supports the needs of industry by enhancing the consistency of graduate skills and knowledge and making qualifications more portable across different regions and employers.

The specific work areas include detailed product design, rules and guidance, as well as developing provider understanding and capability to:

  • replace unit standards with skill standards
  • enable the implementation of “national curricula”
  • transfer existing training schemes to micro-credentials.

NZQA is also reviewing its approach to quality assurance to reflect the role of Workforce Development Councils (WDCs) and Te Pūkenga in the qualifications system.

For more information see Reform of vocational education – NZQA.