Vision Training Ltd

Frequently Asked Questions

Q How long does the programme run?

A  3 consecutive days. For ease of travel and planning we normally run Wednesday to Friday.

 

Q How much does the course cost the school/students? 

A  The programme is fully funded so it costs you (the school) nothing except time and your effort.  However the programme is NOT FREE!  The cost of running a three day event of this calibre is many thousands of dollars.  It is through the generosity of our sponsor which allows MaiBiz to proceed.

 

Q  What does the sponsor want, as a result of investing in your event ?

A  Recognition: Support the sponsor by inviting your local newspaper (and photographer) to attend on the final day.  Have a student write an article for the  newsletter and a letter from the Principal to the sponsor is always welcome (follow the  hyperlink on the homepage for the address).

 

Q Why is the school required to sign a contract?

A  In the past we have been very lenient on schools cancelling their programme.  Unfortunately 1) we still have to pay contracted staff even if the programme does not proceed and 2) the cancelling school has denied another school on a 'waiting list' the opportunity (due to short timeframes).  We can appreciate events which are outside of our control - acts of God, but we have had courses cancelled because a new teacher didn't like the dates their predecessor chose!
   
Q How many students can attend?

A  The optimum size of a MaiBiz programme is 80 students.  However we acknowledge some schools might struggle to enrol such a large number of students.  Therefore many schools will invite other schools to participate.  Importantly, it is difficult to justify running MaiBiz if enrolments are less than 50.  In this case please contact us to discuss options.

 

Q Given this is a programme sponsored by Maori, is there anything I need to be aware of?

A  The programme is delivered in English and the workbook we provide is mainly in English.  We do start the programme with a powhiri and Maori terminology is interspersed throughout the workbook. 

 

Q What is the koha for?

A  The koha given to the school during the powhiri to cover incidentals such as resources and food. We provide limited resources – specifically; flip chart paper, work books and our own presenter requirements.  All student resources are to be provided by the school or the students i.e. A4 and A3 paper, felt pens, staplers, sellotape etc (a comprehensive list is attached).  The money is also to cover any food provided to the presenters and judges.

 

Q What do we provide?

A  We bring workbooks, flipchart paper and our teaching aids.

 

Q What about judges?

A On the third day of the programme students transform the school hall into an expo pavilion.  Five business people from the community are invited to judge the students during the expo.  We ask that you identify and invite 5 judges.  Information about the judging process is provided on a separate attachment.

 

Q Is it only for Maori students?

A  No.  Although we do ask to have a ‘strong’ Maori presence, the programme is open to anyone.

 

Q What ‘profile’ of student do you want?

A  Although business studies students make life easy, the students we want are those ones who may struggle with school, youth at risk, lost direction, or are at risk of falling off the rails!  Entrepreneurship is not always related to grades and therefore it is those people we want to inspire.

 

Q A business person in 3 days – Yeah Right!

A  It would be a miracle if we could transform every student into a scholar in 3 days.  What we will do is teach them the ‘building blocks’ of successful business.  Teachers and judges are always amazed at what students (especially ones with no prior business knowledge) will develop in 3 days.

 

Q Can students attend on two consecutive years?

A  No! Students attending MaiBiz for the second time tend to be disruptive and even the very best of intentions can sometimes equate to undermining the programme and spoiling the surprise for 'new' students.

 

Q Can students come and go as they please?

A  There are exceptions to every rule however if a student has enrolled then there is an expectation they will be there for 3 days.  In a valid circumstance a student will still receive their certificate.  However, for a student to receive a medal, they must present on day 3.

 

Q Do we require a supervising staff member?

A One of our  'agreed' ground rules regards "respect" of the kaupapa of the programme.  Students who are unable to behave in a 'business like' manner will be warned.  Continual misbehaviour will not be tolerated by MaiBiz staff.  The offending student will be required to leave the programme.  Respectfully this and other matters related to discipline are the schools responsibility not ours!

 

Q Besides the obvious what other rational do schools place on MaiBiz?

A  Obviously schools use this programme to introduce/reinforce business concepts.  Other reasons are:
•    Introducing leadership from another angle.  Some even select their Head Boy/Girl based on their performance on this programme.
•    This is a great transition programme and many schools align it with the Careers Department.

 

Q Is MaiBiz aligned with credits?

A  We are NOT licensed providers of NZQA credits.  However schools have successfully aligned NZQA standards to the learning process and we are pleased to offer this as an opportunity.  If you would like to know more please contact us.

 

Q How can I contact you?

Mark Douglas
Phone:  09 533 8344
Mobile:  021 76 1000
Email:  mark@maibiz.co.nz