In 2009 OCS began a government supported initiative in New Zealand to support staff literacy and numeracy levels. The NZ government has recognised that numeracy and literacy levels are lower than acceptable and are providing funding to employers who are willing to develop employee skills in this area. Margaret Tito, training consultant for OCS, is a key figure in co-ordinating this programme. “For those with English as a second language,” says Margaret, “instead of being able to describe a task verbally, we often need to physically demonstrate what is required. Words such as ‘hazard, chemical and evacuation’ are examples of important words which are difficult and often take more time to explain.”
The programme is being trialled in Auckland with 30 people taking part and all participants must themselves choose to be involved. If the trial is successful, the programme will be rolled-out to other major centres. At Auckland airport where 6 staff are taking part, the client has generously provided facilities for the training and trainer, demonstrating that our customers also value the potential benefits, which include improved safety and service and higher staff morale, that the scheme can bring.