Earn as You Learn programme expands to four new regions

The industry-led initiative was developed by manufacturers and is driven by Advancing Manufacturing Aotearoa (AMA). It combines paid workplace experience, formal training and industry mentoring, while students work towards a New Zealand Certificate in Manufacturing (Level 3).

The expansion builds on the success of the Waikato pilot, where students combined classroom-based learning with paid workplace experience while completing their qualification. Many graduates have since moved into full-time employment within the manufacturing sector.

Earn as You Learn is designed to help attract and develop skilled workers. Alongside formal training, the programme's rotational model gives students exposure to different manufacturing workplaces and career pathways, helping them explore opportunities across the sector.

The programme has been developed collaboratively between manufacturers, vocational education providers and regional organisations to ensure students gain the skills and experience employers are looking for.

Approximately 20 students are expected to join the first intake in each region, with cohorts due to begin in February 2027. Delivery of the programme will be subject to participating employers receiving the appropriate NZQA accreditation.

Further regional expansion is planned as interest in the programme continues to grow.

Read the Ministers' announcement:

Earn as You Learn programme expands(external link) — Beehive.govt.nz

Further information

Regional programme contacts

Hutt Valley

Christine Johnston, Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce

christine@hvchamber.org.nz

Bay of Plenty

New Zealand Certificate in Manufacturing (Level 3)(external link) — Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology

Christchurch

Catherine Lye, CEO, Advancing Manufacturing Aotearoa

catherine@amanz.nz

Auckland

experience@manukau.ac.nz

Future expansion enquiries

Catherine Lye, CEO, Advancing Manufacturing Aotearoa

catherine@amanz.nz