Join us for a discussion of policy initiatives to strengthen vocational education pathways in New Zealand. Drawing inspiration from Germany's successful dual-training model, Josh Williams and Dr Michael Johnston will discuss initiatives in secondary and tertiary education to enhance the status and quality of trades and industry training. The discussion will be of interest to policymakers, educators, parents and industry stakeholders.

Date: Thursday, 20 March 2025
Time: 11:00am - 12:00pm

Please register for the webinar via this link. Also, submit your question in advance on Slido.com using code #3762639

If you would like to speak to Dr Michael Johnston in person about his report or this webinar, please reach out to Lottie Evans, events@nzinitiative.org.nz

Michael leads the education programme of work at The New Zealand Initiative. He is a cognitive psychologist with a background in literacy research, educational assessment and psychometrics.
Prior to his time at the Initiative, he was the Associate Dean (Academic) of the Faculty of Education at Victoria University of Wellington. In 2024, he chaired a Ministerial Advisory Group for Education Minister Erica Stanford.

Josh is a Director of MAST Academy, supporting training and apprenticeships in the Marine and Composites industries. He leads a team providing research, insights, and consultancy service on workforce and skills issues. Previous roles include Chief Executive of the Industry Training Federation of New Zealand and a Senior Policy Manager at the New Zealand Ministry of Education.

Before joining the Initiative, Oliver was a Research Fellow at the Centre for Independent Studies in Sydney, the Chief Economist at Policy Exchange in London, and an advisor in the UK House of Lords. Oliver holds a Master’s degree in Economics and Business Administration and a PhD in Law from Bochum University in Germany.