The Importance of Numeracy and Literacy in Employment
In New Zealand, education is built around NZQA unit standards. These standards guide students through various subjects and trades, including construction and demolition. However, the success of NZQA training relies heavily on literacy and numeracy skills, which are essential for completing the required assessments.
Importance of Literacy and Numeracy in NZQA Training
Literacy and numeracy are critical for understanding the assessments linked to NZQA unit standards. Whether it's writing long answers for theory-based subjects or following instructions in trades like construction, these skills play a huge role in student success. Practical industries, like demolition, require workers to apply knowledge in real-life situations. But if a person struggles with reading and writing, it can hold them back from showing what they’re really capable of.
In the demolition industry, for example, NZQA training covers important areas such as asbestos removal, working at heights, and forklift operation. These tasks require a solid grasp of literacy and numeracy for safety and compliance. If workers can't fully understand or fill out the paperwork, it can lead to risks on the job.
Low Pass Rates and the COVID-19 Impact
Unfortunately, literacy and numeracy pass rates in New Zealand are low, with many students not meeting the standards needed for NCEA qualifications. This makes it harder for them to succeed in NZQA training and limits their future opportunities.
The COVID-19 pandemic has made things worse. With schools closing and learning disrupted, many students fell behind. Some had to leave school early to help their families financially, which further affected their education. This early departure from school limits their literacy and numeracy skills, often pushing them into low-wage jobs without much room for career growth.
Why It Matters for the Construction & Demolition Industry
The construction and demolition industry needs skilled workers who can work safely and effectively. Literacy and numeracy are vital to meeting safety guidelines and completing tasks that require calculations or understanding written instructions. For example, when removing asbestos, workers need to read and understand detailed safety protocols. If they lack literacy skills, it could put them and others at risk.
Numeracy is just as important. In construction, workers need to measure materials, calculate loads, and follow numerical safety guidelines. Without these basic skills, they may struggle to do their job correctly and safely.
Solutions to Address the Problem
To tackle these issues, New Zealand needs to focus on a few key areas:
More Government Funding for Adult Education: Providing more resources for literacy and numeracy programmes would help adults who left school early improve their skills. This would not only help individuals but also strengthen the overall workforce.
Practical Assessments in NZQA: NZQA should balance written and practical assessments. Many tradespeople are better at hands-on work than writing essays, so assessments should reflect real-world skills. Participating in consultations to advocate for the inclusion of more practical assessments is key
Workplace Training by Employers: Employers can offer literacy and numeracy training at work to help employees develop these skills. This would boost productivity and improve safety on the job.
Tailored Training Programmes: Specialised training that focuses on the literacy and numeracy needs of specific industries would be more effective. For example, in construction, training should cover the specific skills workers need to perform tasks safely and efficiently.
Final Words
Focusing on literacy and numeracy is essential for improving NZQA training in New Zealand. As pass rates remain low and the effects of COVID-19 continue to be felt, these basic skills are crucial for ensuring that workers in industries like construction can do their jobs safely and effectively. By investing in these areas and providing targeted support, New Zealand can create a more skilled and capable workforce, ready to meet the challenges of the future.
