Venture Timaru to administer $4m apprenticeship grant

Venture Timaru chief executive Nigel Davenport says the agency will administer all aspects of the Regional Apprenticeship Initiative for Mid and South Canterbury, and North Otago.

Timaru District's economic development agency is among the recipients of a $14 million government package for apprenticeships, announced by Regional Economic Development Minister Shane Jones.

Venture Timaru will receive $4m for about 100 new construction industry apprenticeships in Mid and South Canterbury, and North Otago. As part of the scheme the agency will identify apprenticeship opportunities in small and medium-sized businesses as part of the package announced on Friday.

Chief executive Nigel Davenport said the agency would manage and administer the funds, facilitate full pastoral care, ensure apprentices have the equipment they need and provide oversight of the programme.

To read more Click