After completing his secondary schooling at Southland Boys High School, Dale was employed as a labourer for a local engineering company.

During this time Dale had the opportunity to see first hand what engineers do and, wanting to improve his status in the workplace, he decided to apply for an apprenticeship with Southern Group Training.

He has been placed with Dyno NZ for his on job practical training and has found that his previous labouring experience has been very useful to him.

To complete the Level 4 National Certificate in General Engineering Dale must complete a range of theory and practical unit standards. Dale’s off job theory training has been provided by the Southern Institute of Technology through his attendance at weekly evening classes and a three week block course each year.

An apprenticeship offers the opportunity to gain a Level 4 qualification without needing to take on a student debt. Apprentices are paid as they learn. Southern Group Training, as employer, pays for Dale’s Training Manual, his evening class and block course fees, and pays him while he is attending his annual three week block course. Travel and accommodation costs for any block courses held outside Southland are also covered.