The last day our campuses are open is Friday 20th December 2024. Campuses will reopen on Wednesday 15th January 2025. If you would like to chat to one of our staff about enrolling with us, simply fill in an enquiry form and we will talk you through your options when we are back on board in the new year.

Disability Support (Level 4)

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FernNew Zealand Certificate in Health & Wellbeing (Support Work) (Level 4) with strands in Mental Health and Addictions, Community Health & Disability Support
33 WeeksOpen to international students

This 33-week programme offers a comprehensive introduction to the health & wellbeing and disability support sectors in Aotearoa. Designed for those wanting to make a meaningful impact in healthcare, it combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, preparing students for diverse roles in culturally and ethically responsible disability support and care. 

In this programme, students will learn essential communication skills, cultural identity considerations, professional ethics, and Māori health practices. The course explores the history of healthcare in Aotearoa, including the significance of Te Tiriti o Waitangi on healthcare. With a key focus on disability support, students will be equipped to understand the unique challenges and opportunities of the sector, empowering them to foster autonomy, resilience, and self-determination in disability support work. 

Experience flexibility with blended learning, comprised of: 

  • 12 hours of face-to-face classroom learning per week 

  • 8 hours of online learning per week 

Blended learners are required to complete a minimum of 200 hours of work placement over at least 5 weeks. This placement generally takes place during the last 10 weeks of the programme, and learners are involved in selecting, contacting, and interviewing with their placement partners.

You will learn:

  • An understanding of the history of healthcare in New Zealand. 

  • How to navigate the challenges faced by support workers and develop effective communication strategies. 

  • Critical insight into Māori and Pacific cultural values and their alignment with health practices. 

  • Culturally safe principles, relationship-building skills, and strategies to empower individuals in their health and wellbeing journey. 

  • Risk management, professionalism, and ethical decision-making. 

  • The principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and how they apply to health and social services.  

  • How to promote autonomy and self-determination for clients  

  • How to apply practical skills to support clients in a disability setting. 

Course start dates

FEES FREE STUDY

To find out if you are eligible for Fees Free study please find out more here or visit the government Fees Free Website.

STUDENT LOANS

If you meet certain conditions you can get a student loan and allowances. Find out if you meet the conditions by calling StudyLink on Freephone 0800 88 99 00 or visit www.studylink.govt.nz.

COURSE COSTS

The cost can be different depending on the subject and duration of the course. View the course cost for New Zealand students here and International students here.

Domestic Students

General

Acceptable background check including NZ Police Vet.

Academic

Hold a qualification at Level 2 NZQF or equivalent.

English Language:

  • International students: General or Academic IELTS score of 5.5 with no band score lower than 5, or equivalent NZQA Recognised International English Proficiency.

  • Domestic students with ESOL: must be proficient in English language.

 

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