Over 100 years ago recognition was given to the fact that New Zealanders needed more than the theory of academia, they also needed the practicality of technical training and education. From this era came the revised Manual and Technical Institution Act of 1900, providing fertile opportunity to firmly plant the roots of the Christchurch Polytechnic Institute of Technology.
The first classes which began in 1906 were then named Christchurch Technical College. The classes were lessons on menstruation, algebra, geometry and arithmetic.
Very early trade training included fitting and turning apprentices, followed by certification licensing of the plumbers and electrical wiremen.
By the 1960s, the College moved to distinguish itself from the high school sector in favor of being seen as a tertiary institute, and CTC became Christchurch Technical Institute. Within that decade of change CTI also split its activities to concentrate wholly on post secondary education for night and day classes.
In line with its ever changing role, the early 1980s saw another name change to better encapture the essence of the course range offered. Thus CTI became Christchurch Polytechnic. |
