Skills Group, New Zealand’s largest private training provider, is pioneering the future of vocational education by integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into its teaching and learning processes.
Skills Group Head of Strategic Development Andy Cooper says by leveraging cutting-edge AI technology, Skills Group is enhancing student performance, streamlining administrative tasks, and personalising the learning experience for students across various trades.
“AI tools are transforming how Skills Group creates and delivers vocational training content,” he says.
“These tools assist educators in designing engaging, industry-relevant learning materials tailored to the diverse needs of students. With AI’s ability to analyse large datasets, Skills Group can provide differentiated learning pathways that ensure every student receives the right support at the right time.”
AI also enables the rapid development of resources such as multilingual content and context-specific examples, ensuring materials are accessible and effective for all learners.
Andy says one of the most powerful uses of AI at Skills Group is in personalising learning experiences.
“Adaptive learning systems track individual progress and customise learning pathways to suit the unique needs and learning styles of each student. This helps ensure that learners receive the support they need to overcome challenges and stay on track to achieve success.”
AI’s ability to provide targeted interventions allows Skills Group to proactively address skill gaps, ensuring that no student is left behind in their training journey.
With the rise of online learning, Skills Group is also planning to use AI to create interactive simulations and immersive environments where students can develop practical skills remotely. These AI-powered tools allow students to engage in real-world scenarios, practicing tasks and techniques without the need for physical equipment, all while reinforcing theoretical knowledge. This enhances the hands-on experience that vocational education is known for, even in remote learning settings.
Andy says AI is also playing a crucial role in improving administrative efficiency at Skills Group. Routine tasks such as drafting emails, generating feedback, and creating reports are being automated, freeing up educators to focus more on direct student interaction. By reducing administrative burdens, Skills Group can provide more personalised and meaningful learning experiences.
“AI is helping Skills Group identify areas where students may need additional support. By analysing student performance data, AI provides valuable insights into trends and patterns, enabling tutors to intervene proactively. This helps prevent students from falling behind and ensures they receive the necessary guidance to succeed in their trades.”
Skills Group is committed to empowering its educators with AI tools that enhance teaching and curriculum delivery. AI-assisted lesson planning, resource creation, and learning analytics are just a few examples of how tutors can use technology to create more impactful, tailored learning experiences.
Andy says virtual AI tutors are also being explored as a way of further enriching the learning process by offering academic support to students outside of classroom hours.
As Skills Group continues to integrate AI into its educational practices, the organisation remains dedicated to providing high-quality training that meets the evolving needs of today’s industries.
“AI is not here to replace hands-on skills development, but to complement and enhance it by offering personalised guidance, immersive learning opportunities, and improved administrative efficiency,” Andy says.
“We’re excited to see how AI is transforming vocational education and how it allows us to support our students more effectively.”
Skills Group is continually evaluating and implementing emerging AI technologies with direct applications to vocational education including: neurodiversity-inclusive learning materials; AI for assessment; interactive learning tools; and content development tools.
“AI enables us to create more inclusive, efficient, and personalised learning pathways, ensuring our students are equipped with the skills needed to succeed in their careers.”
About Skills Group
Skills Group is New Zealand’s largest private training establishment, delivering hands-on, real-world education to over 18,000 learners across New Zealand and the world. From school leavers to CEOs, Skills Group supports lifelong learning through practical, industry-aligned training programmes that help people grow their careers, businesses, and communities.
As a trusted partner to government, employers, and educators, Skills Group plays a vital role in shaping New Zealand’s workforce and driving economic growth. Our programmes are built with industry, for industry – ensuring learners gain skills that are relevant, future-focused, and immediately applicable in the workplace.
Whether training the next generation of electricians, upskilling healthcare workers, or supporting leadership development in the boardroom, Skills Group is committed to maximising human potential through lifelong learning.
