Course adapted to workers | Otago Daily Times News Online

The rhythms of the seasons have been addressed in a new Otago Polytechnic education pathway aimed at honing wine and fruit growing skills in central Otago.

This means that those already working in horticulture and viticulture can focus their energy where it is needed during peak production times of the year while studying for a New Zealand diploma in horticulture production. (level 5).

Delivered online and run at night, it allows students to continue developing their skills in two priority areas: the production of orchard fruits (stone, pome and berry fruits); and viticulture.

Upon graduation, students will be able to manage horticultural or wine-growing operations to ensure compliance with quality requirements for fruit or wine grapes.

Keynote speaker Rachel Petrie said the program is based on a suite of tailored learning options in central Otago, where Otago Polytechnic works closely with industry partners to provide workplace learning. work that supported industries in the region.

“Our close ties to local industry have helped enormously in developing a pathway that works, ensuring students are engaged and deepen their learning alongside experienced industry leaders,” she said.

“For example, there are currently 40 employed learners studying our New Zealand Certificate in Horticulture (Fruit Production, Level 4).

“All are employed locally in commercial orchards or vineyards – primarily in the central Otago region.

“Their backgrounds are varied and include supervisors, machine operators, assistant managers, packing station operators, organic and biodynamic farm staff, general horticulture staff, winery workers and technicians. .”

There was “a world of opportunity” for careers in the fast-growing horticulture and viticulture industries, she said.

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