110 | COMMUNITY Te Pukenga - Otago Polytechnic T T Karen Phelps Flexible options give students more choice Otago Polytechnic has evolved into a modern educational provider offering more than 150 qualifications across multiple campuses and delivery modes. Otago Polytechnic is breaking down traditional barriers to education by offering an increasingly diverse range of flexible study options, enabling students to tailor their learning journey to suit their individual circumstances. The institution, which boasts a 150-year heritage dating back to the establishment of the Dunedin School of Art in 1870, has evolved into a modern educational provider offering more than 150 qualifications across multiple campuses and delivery modes. Central to its educational philosophy is the recognition that today’s learners often juggle multiple commitments alongside their studies. Its comprehensive suite of flexible learning options allows students to choose between full-time and part-time study, with qualifications ranging from six-month certificates to three-year degrees. Traditional on-campus learning remains available at its Dunedin headquarters, Cromwell and Wānaka campuses in Central Otago and the Auckland International Campus for international students. However, recognising that geographic location should not limit educational opportunities, Otago Polytechnic has expanded into fully online programmes delivered in partnership with Open Polytechnic/Te Pūkenga. These online options give students the freedom to study from anywhere in New Zealand, accessing course materials, communicating with facilitators and virtual classmates through comprehensive online learning platforms. For those seeking a middle ground, the institution offers blended delivery options combining online learning with block courses, fieldwork placements and local tutorials. This approach provides the convenience of remote study while maintaining the practical, hands-on elements essential to many vocational qualifications. Another option is work-integrated learning. Some programmes are delivered via apprenticeship modes, allowing students to earn while they learn and gain invaluable on-thejob experience. Additionally, through its Capable NZ initiative, Otago Polytechnic recognises prior learning, enabling those with significant work and life experience to fast-track formal qualifications. The institution’s commitment to student support ensures that, regardless of study mode, learners have access to comprehensive services including academic support, health and wellbeing resources, career-planning assistance and IT support. With an average teacher-to-student ratio of 1:16, Otago Polytechnic prides itself on combining educational excellence with practical, hands-on learning experiences that prepare graduates for the workplace. This approach has positioned it as a preferred choice for students seeking qualifications that seamlessly transition them from study to industry. The drive towards increased flexibility reflects Otago Polytechnic’s values-led approach and commitment to putting learners at the heart of everything it does. By removing traditional barriers to education, it enables a more diverse range of students to access quality education. This strategy appears to be working, with the institution’s website saying it consistently ranks highly in student achievement and satisfaction results across Australasia. As education continues to evolve in the post-pandemic landscape, Otago Polytechnic’s flexible approach positions it well to meet the changing needs of learners and employers alike. Proud to support Te Pukenga - Otago Polytechnic The power of strong connections Proudly supporting Te Pukenga - Polytechnic Kyle Cameron kycameron@deloitte.co.nz Otago House, 481 Moray Place, Dunedin www.deloitte.co.nz PLACEMAKERS DUNEDIN & MOSGIEL PLACEMAKERSDUNEDIN & MOSGIEL 50 BURNS ST & 34 CARNCROSS ST (03) 466 4617 PROUDLY SUPPORTING Phone: 03 983 5500 waterfordpress.co.nz Your Business, Your Industry, Your News. DO OUR READERS KNOW YOU EXIST?
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