The Government has decided to disestablish the Te Pūkenga​ network and re-establish institutes of technology and polytechnics (ITPs) as either stand-alone or federated entities​.

Work-based learning is a vital part of this system, giving people the opportunity and flexibility to earn while they learn and to gain an education that is more directly relevant to the changing needs of the workplace. The Government has decided to establish Industry Skills Boards to take over the functions of Workforce Development Councils.​

Government decisions to be made in 2025 include:​

• details on the legislation to enable the changes​
• the future model for work-based learning ​
• funding frameworks to support the new entities and delivery models​
• which ITPs will be standalone or federated entities​
• the number and coverage of Industry Skills Boards.​

Learners should continue to enrol and study for qualifications. Although there will be some changes to how ITPs are organised, programmes will continue to be delivered, and every effort will be made to ensure that learning is not disrupted.

Find out more about the vocational education system.