ITENZ is proud to announce the winners of the 2025 ITENZ Awards, recognising excellence, innovation, and learner-focused achievement in the Private Training Establishment (PTE) sector.
Supreme Award – Sponsored by Ako Aotearoa
The Supreme Award, sponsored by Ako Aotearoa, was awarded to Y-Education for outstanding organisational quality and learner outcomes. Judges highlighted Y-Education’s strong focus on priority learners, excellence in pastoral support, and organisational self-reflection. Leadership was described as strategic and inclusive, with clear attention to graduate destinations. Engagement with schools and community organisations was shown to have a positive impact.
Provider of the Year – Sponsored by Public Trust
Y-Education also received the Provider of the Year Award, recognising its remarkable journey of improvement, moving from a Category 2 to a Category 1 provider, doubling enrolments and dramatically improving course and qualification completion rates. Judges commended its strategic reset, investment in staff training around neurodiversity, and consistent quality standards across its network. Today, over 80% of learners progress to employment or further study.
Outstanding Performance Award – Sponsored by Wisenet
The Outstanding Performance Award went to Joselyn Fox, Learner and Academic Support at Cavalli College in Auckland. Judges praised her outstanding performance across every dimension of her work, her leadership, cultural humility, and her learner-first approach. Joselyn has supported at-risk youth through trauma-informed and culturally responsive mentoring, contributing to a 100% completion rate for the NZ Certificate in Foundation Skills. She also mentors staff, strengthens sector relationships, and ensures authentic voices are represented in advisory groups.
Tutor of the Year – Sponsored by Pipi Learning
The Tutor of the Year Award was presented to Reuben Simpson, trainer at Mission Ready HQ. Reuben impressed judges with his creativity and learner-centred teaching. Using humour, interactive tools, and innovative lesson design, he empowers students to overcome challenges and succeed in demanding programmes. Learners described him as a supportive guide who turned complex material into something memorable and engaging.
Celebrating Excellence in the PTE Sector
Commenting on the awards, ITENZ Chief Executive Wayne Dyer said:
“These awards showcase the best of the private tertiary sector – organisations and individuals who are committed to learners, who innovate, and who deliver real results for communities. This year’s winners exemplify the transformative role PTEs play in New Zealand’s education system and economy.”