A former student of Tuatapere Community College, George enrolled in the July 2007 ACE Engineering programme which was held over 20, instead of the usual 38, weeks at the Southern Institute of Technology.

The condensed pre apprenticeship course allowed George to complete all the requirements of the course in a shorter period of time, thus allowing him to begin his apprenticeship earlier than previously would have been the case.

Having successfully completed all the requirements of the programme George was offered an apprenticeship with Sheet Metalcraft where he will complete the remaining Level 3 and Level 4 practical unit standards. Additional practical experience is provided through annual three week block courses held at the Southern Institute of Technology.

The theory units are taught through off job training via weekly evening classes at the Southern Institute of Technology and require regular attendance if the apprentice is to make good steady progress towards the completion of his apprenticeship and Level 4 National Certificate.