Our People
Phil Middleton
Founder
Our founder, Phil, started Learner Focused Training in 2015 to try and help a group of Pacific Island Apprentices with the knowledge side of their BCITO apprenticeship. He understood that many apprentices come in with extensive on-site experience and are capable of performing physical work, but they were held back by their understanding of why they did these tasks and some found it difficult to perform in assessments. Classes were designed to meet their specific cultural and learning needs. These classes had the highest retention and pass rates for apprentices. With this success, classes were rolled out across Auckland and parts of Aotearoa, NZ.
Before LFT, Phil completed a degree at Auckland University, majoring in Psychology and Education.
He supported himself during this time by labouring for a carpenter and was lucky enough to be offered a BCITO apprenticeship, which he “flew” through, only taking 8 years. After becoming qualified and working for himself for a while, Phil worked as a training advisor for the BCITO for over 9 years. It is from these experiences that Phil designed LFT courses. His familiarity with assessment requirements and his university background has ensured that every LFT class is effective and engaging for attendees (whether it is for general carpentry, supervisors, learning support, Maori & Pasifika or work readiness).
He has always willingly shared his knowledge, but his real skill has been in creating a supportive environment and an engaging programme, where everyone feels comfortable to share their combined knowledge and experiences. Phil has also trained and mentored our team of tutors to ensure you are getting a fantastic opportunity to learn what you need to pass your assessments.
Adriaan Kant - Tutor
Adriaan is a young energetic family man who is continually moving and working on new projects. He is still on the tools working on high-end homes that require both high skill and imagination to come up with solutions to unique situations
Adriaan is a qualified carpenter and also holds a qualification as a construction supervisor. He can not only build but has extensive experience in steering teams of contractors towards completing a high-end product.
Adiaan does everything to the best of his abilities and luckily for us, he has a passion to share his knowledge and help bring others through.