The Capable Workplaces team

Phil Ker, Otago Polytechnic Chief Executive

As Otago Polytechnic Chief Executive, Phil actively leads the organisation’s commitment to innovations in delivering education. "Capable NZ enables a rethink of how we approach education. By shaping degrees around the needs of the learners and the needs of employers, we can be truly creative and responsive as educators. It’s very liberating for everyone."

Dr Robin Day, Director, Capable NZ

Robin is Otago Polytechnic’s Deputy Chief Executive, Academic Leader and Director of Capable NZ. His interest is in developing work-based learning beyond industry certificates and into degrees and postgraduate opportunities. "The workplace is where many people gain their most important learning experiences. Where this includes critical thinking, and application to work practices, this deserves to be acknowledged appropriately in terms of our education system."

Keith Tyler-Smith, WBL project co-leader

Keith has a long-term interest in workplace-based learning. For the past six years he has spearheaded workplace-based online course developments as the eLearning Projects Manager for the Tertiary Accord of New Zealand (TANZ), a collaborative consortium of seven polytechnics/ institutes of technology, of which Otago Polytechnic is a foundation member. Keith was brought on board at a very early stage in Otago Polytechnic's initiative to develop a workplace-based pathway to degree qualification, in large part because of his passion for and abiding interest in the philosophy of workplace based learning.

Glenys Ker, Facilitator

A highly experienced career practitioner, educator and facilitator, Glenys provides particular expertise in leadership and management development and career planning. "Capable NZ is a rare opportunity for candidates to critically reflect on their work, and sometimes for the first time, articulate what they already know. It’s a valuable, empowering experience."

Paul Morriss, Facilitator

Paul's career has included a range of managerial roles in both private and public sectors, working as a business advisor specialising in SMEs, and lecturing in management. As a Capable NZ facilitator, he believes in a simple combination of being hardworking, helpful and positive: "It’s tremendously rewarding to see candidates grow, and their organisations benefit as a result."