Twelve Levin locals are celebrating after successfully obtaining a class 2 driver licence with a forklift endorsement.

This was all thanks to an initiative led by the Venezuelan and Colombian communities. They wanted to combine English language education with practical driver training. Many of the Levin locals had experience driving forklifts overseas. They wanted a New Zealand class 2 licence so they can be employed as forklift operators.

English Language Partners delivered English classes in partnership with local business One Stop Driver Training that provided the forklift driver training. The project was made possible through funding from Horowhenua District Council.

“The English Language Partners class was essential for my classmates and me to master the technical language of forklift operation. Getting my forklift operator certificate was a real milestone in my life and an opportunity for me to move towards my employment aspirations.” Alejandro, learner.

‍

Learning practical English

Over four weeks in May 2025 the Levin locals attended an online tailored English course focused on health and safety vocabulary and the specific language used in forklift certification.

The English language tuition was free for the learners.

Teacher Dana Taylor taught vocabulary such as “accelerator”, “inching pedal” and “tilt lever” that are important words for any forklift operator. She also helped learners practise essential health and safety vocabulary such as “hazard”, “protective equipment”, and “load stability”.

Grammar was introduced in context. For example, learners practised how to:

• Give instructions (e.g. “Use the tilt lever slowly.”) including how to use modal verbs (e.g. “The operator must wear a high-visibility vest.")
• Ask questions (e.g. “Where do I park the forklift?”)
• Use language in sequence (e.g. “First, check the tyres. Then, turn on the engine.”)

The online lessons built the learners' confidence through whole-class and small-group discussions, video listening activities, and practical vocabulary development and revision. The learners said that these tasks helped them understand and practise the targeted language they would need for forklift operations in New Zealand workplaces.

This class was designed for these learners and Dana developed tailored learning resources including the example below. English teachers will be familiar with the practice exercise where learners match vocabulary with elements of a picture or diagram.

"It’s been a real privilege to support our ESOL learners as they gained the language and skills needed for workplace English and forklift operations in New Zealand. Teaching the course online helped us overcome barriers. I’m proud of all our learners who have worked hard and achieved their certification. They deserve success in their future careers." Dana Taylor, English teacher.

‍

Fantastic outcome for all learners

Following the English course, all 12 learners passed the test and obtained a Class 2 driver licence with “F” endorsement.

“It was amazing to see how motivated the learners were. They knew this was a real opportunity to improve their job prospects. Most had experience driving forklifts overseas but needed a New Zealand licence. We love hearing from people who want to learn English for work and Levin now has 12 more qualified multi-lingual forklift operators.” Catherine Taylor, Operations Coordinator.

‍

Welcoming communities in Horowhenua

This initiative is a strong example of community-driven service delivery, responding directly to local needs. It also aligns with the goals of the Horowhenua District Council's Community Wellbeing Strategy, particularly in areas such as employment, education, and inclusion. Horowhenua District Council takes part in the Welcoming Communities initiative which brings together councils and communities to make places we love more welcoming for everyone.

Learn English for work

This unique forklift course was only possible with funding from the Horowhenua District Council but we offer many other courses to help with practical English in the workplace.

Our “English for Employees” programme is free for residents and citizens who are working (including in self-employed roles) and have a low level of English.  

The programme is available online and in classrooms around New Zealand.  

There are plenty of spaces available and we welcome enquiries from anyone who meets the eligibility criteria.

‍