frequently asked questions.

1. “What is distance learning?”
Distance learning is the name given to study by correspondence. Basically training material is provided to the student who works through it and returns it to the provider for assessment.

2. “What are the entry requirements to train at Firetech?”
Anyone who has attained the age of 16 years and is – or is about to start – working in the fire protection industry may enrol. There is no upper age limit. It is helpful if the applicant has achieved a good understanding of written English as ‘distance’ learning requires the student to study and submit written material. IMPORTANT NOTE: To receive the Government fee subsidy intending students MUST BE either a New Zealand Citizen or a New Zealand Permanent Resident.

3. “Why obtain a Competenz Training Agreement?”
Competenz is the industry-training organisation, which oversees the whole of the National Certificate Qualifications within the fire protection industry. Signing up for a training agreement with this organisation directly influences the cost to the student. The subsidy is reviewed annually but at the time of writing was 60%.

4. “How long does it take to complete the National Certificate Course?”
Level 3 courses are intended to be completed over a period of two years. Level 4 courses may be completed in three years. Of course, there is nothing to prevent a keen student from completing their training in a much shorter period.

5. “Are my fees protected?”
Yes. Firetech Training Limited pays all student fees into the Student Fee Protection Scheme at the Public Trust. This means that all unexpended fees are held at Public Trust.

6. “Apart from Firetech enrolment fees are there other costs?”
Yes. As mentioned in question 3 students need to sign a training agreement by contacting Firetech Training Limited and there is a cost for this, which can be identified by contacting us. Depending upon the course being studied students may need to obtain copies of legislative documents and possibly electrical texts. Many fire protection companies will have copies of the various New Zealand Standards and other documents which they may be prepared to allow students to study. Practical ‘on job’ assessments are a cost to be met by the individual and the fee will vary depending upon the person undertaking the work.