Change in training for orchards to meet changing demands

The all-new New Zealand Certificate in Fruit Production Horticulture (Level 4) is for people with three or four years of experience or who have already earned a Level 3 certificate. 

Sector Manager for Production Horticulture Hamish Gordon says the new programme aims to cope with new needs from the industry. 

“It’s a changing world, with a lot of new pressures on industry around things like sustainability and water. While training can be another pressure for orchardists, fruit growers, and business owners, it’s also something that can really help. 

“As new environmental rules come in, the requirements change. It adds more complexity to jobs and we need people who understand these requirements. As an example, that means how to manage freshwater rules and still grow the business.” 

There are several elective topics available in the programme, enabling businesses to focus on the skills important to them.  

A key benefit of learning with Primary ITO is the network of training advisers up and down the country. With fruit production having very different needs depending on the type of fruit, having specialist training advisers is critical to ensuring training works for the learner and the business. 

Hamish says learners are also supported to learn about subjects at the right time for their work – whether that’s pruning in winter or any of the other tasks with a seasonal focus. 

New topics in the training programme include supervising staff in horticultural production, quality standards and regulatory requirements, frosts and frost protection, organic and biodynamic practices, and water conservation. 

For more information or to enrol, complete the contact form below and we’ll connect you with your local fruit production Training Adviser.