The competition comes at a crucial time as New Zealand's building boom continues. With the carpentry workforce expected to grow by more than 17,000 workers by 2020 (21 per cent), there has never been a better time to build a career in the trades. Registered Master Builders CEO David Kelly said Apprentice of the Year supported the industry by showcasing the skills of its future leaders.
Carpentry apprentices can enter the competition online at www.apprenticeoftheyear.co.nz. Entries close on June 4.
Work safety drive
WorkSafe New Zealand has launched its new Use Your Mouth campaign and is encouraging Northland workers to use it to speak up about health and safety. WorkSafe strategy and performance general manager Jude Urlich says:
"Creating working environments where workers feel safe and are encouraged to speak up about risks is critical to improving health and safety outcomes in New Zealand." The Use Your Mouth campaign will appear across digital channels, radio, social media and outdoor advertising. For information and to view the Use Your Mouth commentator videos visit www.worksafe.govt.nz/useyourmouth.
Medical practice in fine health
The Doctors Kamo medical practice has received certification for achieving national standards across healthcare domains including urgent and unplanned care, proactive planned care, routine and preventative care and business efficiency. Doctors Kamo is the first Northland practice to receive the National Healthcare Home Certification, and one of only 10 in New Zealand.
The concept recognises that most people see their general practice as their go-to health place, or 'home', and want it to be able to co-ordinate and link people up with other services they need. The Neighbourhood Healthcare Homes programme is a collaborative programme between Northland DHB and Northland Primary Health Organisations.
Nursing info evenings
Anyone interested in studying nursing at NorthTec will be welcome at one of two information evenings next month to find out more. Information sessions about the bachelor of nursing degree are scheduled for the Kaitaia and Raumanga campuses on May 10, from 4pm-6pm and 5pm-7pm respectively.
A member of NorthTec's enrolments team will be present to supply enrolment packs and answer questions around the process.