The New Zealand organisation Toi Mai has announced a series of updates and initiatives as part of its ongoing efforts in work-based learning reforms and vocational education within the country.
The organisation is focused on the transition phase, in which Workforce Development Councils will eventually be replaced by Industry Skills Boards by 2026. Toi Mai has reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for the industries it represents during this period and ensuring they are adequately covered in the new vocational education and training system. During this transition, it focuses on delivering its work programme to help industries grow through skills development.
In qualifications and assurance, Toi Mai is working to promote skill standards, which will progressively replace unit standards. These new standards aim to provide more flexibility, portability, and consistency across education providers and serve as the foundation of vocational qualifications in Aotearoa.
Toi Mai has introduced a new Emerging Tutor micro-credential as part of its support for performing arts education. This initiative is designed for individuals who assist tutors in delivering lessons in disciplines such as circus, dance, and theatre. The micro-credential aims to help these individuals develop their skills and take on greater responsibilities.
Toi Mai is also advancing skill standards in creative technology by developing entry-level standards to cultivate foundational skills for the gaming, animation, and emerging technology sectors. This effort is intended to support pathways into these industries and strengthen workforce development.
Qualification reviews and moderation processes are ongoing, with Toi Mai having published its moderation plan for the academic year 2025. These moderation efforts are designed to ensure consistency in qualification assessments nationwide. Additionally, the organisation has announced the approval and release of Consent and Moderation Requirements (CMR) 0099 Version 9, now available through the New Zealand Qualifications Authority.
In 2025, observed moderation activities will be conducted for hairdressing, barbering, and outdoor recreation. Toi Mai views this as a valuable learning opportunity for education providers.
The organisation has also addressed challenges in the screen industry, highlighting that only a small percentage of graduates are entering the field. This has led to calls for increased investment in industry-led work-based training to improve employment pathways.
Toi Mai has engaged ringatoi Māori to develop pricing benchmarks for locally commissioned works. These efforts follow wānanga discussions to set remuneration standards for Ngā Toi Māori.
Recent research by Toi Mai suggests that employing more tāngata whaikaha (disabled people) could provide significant benefits and contribute to the success of the technology industry, which remains a key export sector for New Zealand.
