Hero photograph
The Hon Meka Whaitiri talks with Year 13 student Ben Soulsby
 
Photo by Hilary Johnson

Ministerial visit

Hilary Johnson —

On Tuesday March 6 Katikati College hosted a delegation from the Ministry of Primary Industries, led by the Hon Meka Whaitiri.

The Ministry approached us to host the delegation, saying they had heard we have great plans for horticulture at the College. 

And indeed we do. We are changing the way we prepare our students who are interested in a career in the horticulture industry in New Zealand by offering a course that is innovative and  responsive to industry requirements. The course will reflect the skills needed in the industry and offer both practical on the job work experience and school supported curriculum and assessment. Our new programme has opportunities for students wishing to go straight into industry, those seeking cadetships and further training, and those looking to go onto university and then a career in the horticulture sector.

This Innovative Horticulture course will evolve to be increasingly modular and flexible, having the ability to respond to the individual learner’s career pathway and ability. In addition to traditional horticulture subjects it includes business management, digital technology, design and environmental sustainability. It is largely in place at Level 1 already and Level 2 will be in place at the beginning of 2019.

We are pleased to report that the Hon Meka Whaitiri and her colleagues were very impressed with what we are doing and are keen to support us in bringing this to fruition.