WATCH: Edvance’s team discuss the significance of workplace training

For two decades, Edvance Workplace Education has navigated shifts in policy, economic turbulence, and the ever-evolving needs of Aotearoa’s workforce. What keeps it strong, says the team, is their shared pride in transforming the lives of their learners.

It all began in 2005, when engineer Peter Robieson launched Edvance in Tauranga with a clear goal: to help people develop the practical skills for everyday business tasks. From those early days, the organisation has since grown its head office into Auckland, joined trusted education leader New Zealand Skills and Education Group (NZSEG), and expanded its delivery nationwide.

Today, General Manager Amanda Thomas — who has been with the company for more than a decade — leads the helm. “It’s the longest tenure I’ve ever had anywhere. During this time, Edvance has helped tens of thousands of people change their lives and their workplaces for the better,” she says, beaming with pride.

This transformation happens thanks to a diverse team of programme managers, client relations staff, trainers, and administrators who work directly with businesses to solve their employee needs. These might include digital skills, health and safety legislation, leadership values, or numeracy and literacy support.

But nothing at Edvance is off-the-shelf. Each programme is designed with the client, ensuring every business sees the results they need.

“Because of our bespoke approach, we’re able to help people across any industry, no matter their role or background,” says Client Relationship Manager Jan Bruneau-Herman. “We work with manufacturing, construction, logistics, healthcare, agriculture and more. And while each sector is different, there are commonalities — low literacy and numeracy is one such challenge that cuts across all workplaces.”

According to the 2024 OECD Survey of Adult Skills, there has been a significant decline in literacy and numeracy among adults in Aotearoa since 2014. Literacy and numeracy are vital for well-being and productivity, improving employment, health, and justice outcomes. Confidence in these skills enables equity and participation in society, and its importance to businesses cannot be overstated.

So how does Edvance tackle this challenge? “By listening,” says Programme Manager Fa’aulu Tomuli-Afoa. “We spend a lot of time listening so we can understand each workplace — its strengths, barriers, and challenges.”

From there, Edvance maps out the business’s needs and shapes a programme with the right tools and strategies. The focus is on creating a safe space for learning, keeping the training practical and relevant to everyday work, and showing employers how these new skills can add real value over time.

The results speak for themselves. Post-completion surveys show almost 100% of clients are satisfied with outcomes and would recommend Edvance to others.

“What we find is that the employees are more engaged, they are able to ask the right questions, they are resourceful, and they are willing to contribute more in their role — and even stepping up for that promotion,” says Tomuli-Afoa. “These programmes open doors, shift mindsets, and strengthen people’s career journeys. This is what keeps me passionate about my role.”

Thomas adds that the impact doesn't stop there — it reaches far beyond the office walls, too. “When confidence grows, it spills over into life — speaking up at a parent-teacher interview, setting a fitness or financial goal, even strengthening relationships. Our teaching goes beyond the job and into everyday living.”

For some of Edvance’s learners, they have English as a second, or even third language. Some have negative associations with education, and when they graduate Edvance’s programmes, it is the first certificate they have ever obtained.

The graduation ceremonies are undeniably emotional, with learners, trainers, and employers often brought to tears.

Edvance has now attended hundreds of graduations over its 20 years, yet it never gets old. For Bruneau-Herman, they’re the highlight of his role. “I get to see learners shine, to witness their transformation from beginning to end. It’s inspiring every single time. And I look forward to being part of many more in the years ahead.”

Read more about Edvance’s graduations here.