Reports of positive aspects of training and education included The Apprenticeship Boost programme and Mana in Mahi. These initiatives provided funding support, offered bite-size block courses for easier learning, conducted practical on-site assessments, and engaged with proactive training advisors from Te Pūkenga (BCITO).

However, remarks indicated that the transition from hard copy monitoring to online platforms made it challenging for some managers (due to their technological capabilities) to effectively track apprentices' progress, necessitating active follow-ups.

Businesses were concerned about the cost of training apprentices and the need for proper guidance from trainers or mentors.

Representatives reported that the education system should cater to learners with learning difficulties or who struggle in traditional academic settings by implementing personalised learning approaches and support systems.

Insufficient promotion of training opportunities and lack of support systems hindering workers' involvement in further education were accentuated.

Representatives shared that although block courses were accessible and assessments could be completed flexibly, apprentices faced challenges in finding adequate time during work hours to complete theoretical components.

They expressed a need for better education and training to address legislative reform changes effectively.

Some painting and decorating apprentices felt that they were already quite skilled before attending block courses and were looking for more advancement during those sessions, suggesting a potential need to enhance the content or tailor the courses to suit varying skill levels.

Employers in kitchen and bathroom design shared concerns about prioritising client demands without adequately training designers, which posed a challenge.

Greater influence and oversight in the wall and floor tiling training certification offered by Te Pūkenga (BCITO) were needed to ensure that apprentices were using the correct products and methodologies for tiling installations.

Additionally, representatives stressed the need to align older tilers' practices with industry standards to prevent the transmission of incorrect practices to younger tilers.

"Transitioning from the old monitoring system to the new online system has created challenges for employers to track progress and support apprentices effectively. Unless the apprentice is completely upfront, it’s difficult to identify gaps in learning and ways to help."

"The financial burden of training apprentices and the time it takes for them to become fully productive can put small and medium-sized businesses off from taking on apprentices."

"We need to raise awareness of what's possible and promote the benefits of training. We lack organisations that actively engage workers."

"There's a desire for more advancement opportunities and further development for apprentices during their block courses and training programmes."