The 'Skill New Zealand' strategy was adopted to create an environment where industries can identify and build training programmes to meet particular needs. Industry training organisations or ITOs are at the heart of 'Skill New Zealand'. Oversee the training and assessment of registered trainees. Monitor the assessment of industry standards. The skills identified in the analysis are documented in specific areas of skill and knowledge called unit standards.
Trainees gain credits when they achieve a standard.
These credits accumulate until the trainee has demonstrated the range of competencies required for a particular qualification. Each ITO sets the standards and qualifications for its particular industry. The standards are registered on the National Qualifications Framework. Training programmes based on the standards can be offered in the workplace or by a range of education and training providers - polytechnics, private training establishments, or schools. These programmes must meet the industry's requirements in terms of the assessment of trainee achievement.