Competenz Te Pūkenga is set to launch a new forestry programme, New Zealand Apprenticeship in Silviculture, in the second quarter of 2023. 

The purpose of this programme is to equip the forestry industry with individuals who have the skills and knowledge required to be employed in a commercial forestry operation in a silviculture role, and contribute to operational planning. They will have decision-making abilities in silviculture.

 Graduates will be able to work autonomously and be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of forestry employees, plant and equipment. Graduates will also be capable of maintaining productivity within the operation.

 This apprenticeship programme is made up of the following two qualifications:

1. New Zealand Certificate in Forestry Operations (Level 3) with a strand in Thin to Waste

2. New Zealand Certificate in Forest Industry Operations (Planning and Monitoring) (Level 4) with a strand in Silviculture.

 The launch will be subject to the following:

- Approval of a business case supporting the development of the qualification.

- Fulfilling new requirements of programme development with Te Pūkenga and with Muka Tangata.

 FICA points out that:

- If the employee is already earning credits in this space they will be eligible to be carried over into the apprenticeship.

- As the employer, check how many units standards the employee has to make up this programme to see them qualify for L3 and then move to L4.