On 28th June 2019, we were formally advised by WelTec that they would not be delivering our industry programmes – the New Zealand Diploma of Funeral Directing (Level 5) and the New Zealand Diploma of Embalming (Level 5) - from the end of this year. We have been assured by WelTec that current students will complete their programme of study and qualify to graduate at its conclusion.

 

WelTec’s decision has not been made lightly. Most of you will be aware that they, together with Whitireia Community Polytechnic, have been working closely together in an effort to improve their financial situations. To this end, both institutes have reviewed their portfolio of programmes, and reduced the number offered.

 

Their decision has been strongly influenced by current vocational education and training reforms focussing on “pathway” programmes - those which lead to improved employment opportunities.  This leaves our profession - together with those offering apprenticeships - in an invidious position, as our students must already be employed in order to safely enter into our programmes.

 

As your industry training organisation (ITO), we are committed to the development and delivery of our programmes to a high standard. It is essential that we take the time to continue our current review of both qualifications and their delivery. We are actively seeking a new provider for our diploma programmes and will continue to work with the NZ Qualifications Authority (NZQA), the Tertiary Education Commission (TEC), and industry professionals to develop and enhance our programmes for 2021.