The primary purpose of this project is to provide a structured skill recognition framework that addresses several critical issues faced by the more than 19,000 Pacific workers participating in Aotearoa New Zealand’s RSE scheme: 

  • Acknowledges and formalises the skills gained by RSE workers through training and employment in New Zealand. 
  • Facilitates better job opportunities for RSE workers upon their return to their home countries, allowing them to leverage their New Zealand experience effectively. 
  • Provides a clear understanding of the skills available in the RSE worker pool, enhancing workforce quality and productivity for New Zealand industries. 
Key Steps:

1. Pre-departure skills assessment: 

  • This may involve both formal assessments and informal evaluations to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the RSE worker’s capabilities. 

2. Objective definition and support: 

  • Facilitate assistance through the origin country’s labour units, supported by relevant agencies, to help RSE workers define their objectives for participating in the RSE scheme, including specific skill development goals. 

3.    Development and mentorship program: 

  • Collaborate with New Zealand employers, with support from a VET provider, to create a tailored development and mentorship program for RSE workers. This program will align with the worker’s defined objectives and skill assessments and will include formal and informal training opportunities and mechanisms for gathering evidence of skills gain during their employment. 

4.    Ongoing support and check-ins: 

  • Implement regular check-ins and support mechanisms for RSE workers and their employers throughout the programme, facilitated by a VET provider, to ensure that workers are progressing toward their skill development goals. 

5.    Assessment and award of standards: 

  • Establish a process whereby a VET provider can assess RSE workers and award recognised standards based on evidence gathered from employers during the training and work experience. 

6.    Reintegration recognition: 

  • Collaborate with origin country qualifications authorities and skill recognition centres to enable formal recognition or awarding of standards to RSE workers as part of their reintegration process back into their home communities.