Horticulture

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Quality Assurance Programme

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Horticultural quality controllers hold one of the more significant positions in post-harvest facilities. They're responsible for monitoring the quality of produce and making decisions on the acceptability of that product. This course of study will ensure you're up to the task.

The five day programme is suitable for trainee quality controllers who have a reasonable understanding of the horticultural industry and are being trained for the role of quality controller. The shorter three day option is available for more experienced quality controll staff. 

The programme usually takes place from 9am to 4pm and you will be expected to undertake self-directed study beyond class time.

Content Details

The programme is based on NZQA unit standards and Bay of Plenty Polytechnic modules. The unit standards are part of the national qualification framework and can be used as credits for other qualifications.

Five Day Programme - Quality Assurance for Horticulture Quality Controllers
Suitable for trainee quality controllers who have a reasonable understanding of the horticultural industry and are being trained for the role of quality controller. The emphasis of the programme will be on:

  • manual use,
  • roles and responsibilities,
  • documentation, and
  • an introduction to pests, product security, and corrective actions.

Three Day Programme - Quality Assurance for Horticulture Quality Controllers - Advanced
Aimed at quality controllers with experience in the role of quality assurance. The emphasis is on:

  • phytosanitary requirements,
  • sampling strategies,
  • problem solving and
  • corrective actions, communication and supervisory skills. 

You will be required to complete some pre-course written assessments and have a signed verification of work experience from an employer.

Entry

Five Day Programme
The programme is suitable for trainee quality controllers, and previous experience in the horticultural industry would be an advantage.

Three Day Programme - Advanced
ZESPRI™ Accredited Personnel (ZAP) approval preferred. Minimum experience of one year/season in a sole position as a quality controller.

Indicative Fees

  • 5 Day Programme: $842 incl. course related costs
  • 3 Day Programme: $625 incl. course related costs

The standard published fee is applicable for New Zealand citizens and permanent residents only.

An international fee is payable for non New Zealand citizens/permanent residents.

Qualifications Gained

On successful completion of the programme you will receive:

  • An achievement record identifying that you have successfully completed all the programme requirements for Quality Assurance for Horticultural Quality Controllers or Quality Assurance for Horticultural Quality Controllers - Advanced
  • A profile identifying unit standards and module results. NZQA will also issue a student record identifying the unit standards achieved

Note: Trainee quality controllers will need to complete further in-house industry assessments in order to gain industry accreditation.

Career Opportunities

Quality controllers are sought after. Those who show good communication/supervisory skills and decision making processes hold prominent positions within the post-harvest sector. The skills are transferable to other positions such as quality manager, internal auditor and line supervisor.