The print industry first took part in the SkillEX/WorldSkills competitions in 2006, with the competition held on a bi-annual basis. At this stage, sheet-fed printing is the only sector of the print industry involved in the competitions. PrintNZ runs the sheet-fed printing competition, with help from industry experts who judge entries and participate in the selection process.
As part of the regional competition apprentices complete a test job under supervision in their workplace, which is then sent off for judging. Finalists are then selected to compete at the national competition in Wellington. The winner of the nationals who meets all eligibility criteria is trained in preparation for the international competition held every other year.
To enter the regional competition apprentices need to have finished at least Level 3 of their apprenticeship through to having completed their apprenticeship in 2008 – the year of the national competition.
Joan Grace, Chief Executive PrintNZ, says all employers of apprentices who meet the entry criteria should encourage their employees to participate. She says, “WorldSkills is a fantastic opportunity for apprentices to gain confidence, skills and put their skills to the test against their peers in the industry.”
Kieran Dale, 22 years old, from Logick Print & Graphics, says his WorldSkills experience was an amazing opportunity. He says, “From the whole experience, not just the trip to Japan, I have learnt and developed skills that I would have struggled to learn had I not had this opportunity. This competition has opened so many doors for me and I learnt early on in my training that I had to grab every opportunity with two hands as they might never be available to me ever again.
“Entering WorldSkills looks great on your C.V. If an apprentice is thinking about entering, they should go for it.”
BJ Ball Papers and Trust 4 Skills Fund sponsored Kieran’s preparation and travel to Japan in November 2007.
PrintNZ Training will send a letter and entry form to all employers of eligible apprentices in June. Entries are open from 16 June – 16 July 2008. The regional competition takes place mid-August and the national competition in September. The next international competition takes place in Calgary, Canada, in 2009.
For more information please contact Heather Letfus at PrintNZ on 027 249 1037 or email heather.letfus@printnz.co.nz
