Minister of Education responds to NorthTec proposal

An attempt to give Northland an array of programmes at a range of campuses and a change in the employment landscape have led to a major restructuring proposed by NorthTec, a spokesman says.

The proposal includes scrapping a number of courses, cutting 36 jobs, and "resting" campuses in Rawene and Kerikeri. In a document sent to staff called The Case for Change, NorthTec said it was supposed to make a 3 per cent surplus each year; instead it expected to make a $4.5 million loss this year.

NorthTec spokesman, Peter Heath, said there were two factors which led to the tertiary education provider to this point.

"A genuine attempt to service our community we have been trying over the years to be all things to all people - offering the widest array of programmes across the widest possible range of campuses. This just hasn't proved sustainable.

"Secondly, the employment landscape shifts over time. Things change. Just because a programme isn't optimal now doesn't mean that it wasn't appropriate five or even two years ago. We feel we are acting now in good time to ensure that we add greatest value to the lives of our students and the betterment of our region and its communities," he said.

The new Minister of Education, Chris Hipkins, said he was aware NorthTec released a change proposal to staff.

"That will naturally be unsettling for staff and students. I understand the Tertiary Education Commission is continuing to work with NorthTec as it progresses its change proposal."

Mr Hipkins said Government is committed to life-long learning and supporting access to quality tertiary education in the regions, including Northland.

He said one of the Government's top priorities was improving the affordability of tertiary study by making the first year fees-free and boosting student living allowances and loan entitlements by $50 a week.

"We need more of our young people taking advantage of university, polytechnic and industry training opportunities and I am confident our policies will make a real difference," she said.

Mr Heath said NorthTec chief executive Mark Ewen and other NorthTec leaders are visiting NorthTec campuses this week to have face-to-face sessions with staff and students.

NorthTec is taking submissions until November 27 and is due to make a final decision on December 6.