Is the PGDB finally waking up? Well Done Guys!! All the hard work is slowly paying off! Rumor has it that the PGDB will get rid of registration exams and make that a part of the National Certificate. PTI will be responsible for training and qualifying new plumbing, gas fitting and drainlaying apprentices. The PGDB will only be hosting Certifying exams open book and with a pass rate of 90%... It will be very interesting to see the developments in the next months ahead! Keep it up! 

Linkback: https://www.plumbers.nz/pgdb-new-zealand-plumbing-gasfitting-and-drainlaying-board/30/is-the-pgdb-finally-waking-up/425/

Mike I don't agree with you.  I believe the problem lies with what is taught is not what is examined and what is examined is not always what is taught.  I have been at meetings where learning providers have said that specific items in the exam were not taught at their establishment and the rule of thumb is that if even one provider does not cover it, then it should not be in the exam.  I do think our polytecs have issues and I would encourge any employer of apprentices to ask to see the moderation report for that polytec.  Most as far as I understand have NOT passed their moderation visits.  This is shocking and one must ask where the ITO sits in all of this as they are privvy to the moderation reports for all learning establishments that host ITO apprentices.  Why do they continue to issue contracts without demanding the highest standards???  Apprentices do not always read the questions properly - and this contributes to a low pass rate.  I would prefer to see the introduction of an exam at the completion of each level of the apprenticeship with the apprentice NOT moving on to the next stage until such time as they pass the level examination.

hi guys
sometimes the reason for the failing of these exams is because of the lack of support from the craftsman when i was working in taupo the craftsman said he would help but he was always to busy and of course the trainee never had supervision of any of the work he did he only was criticised if it leaked or went wrong and any way if the trainee passed the exam it would mean he would have to pay more to his trainee ,its a very unfair system