Disability Support (Level 4)

New 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

Auckland Central

100 Symonds Street, Grafton, Auckland 1010

Feb 24, 2025
Jul 14, 2025

Christchurch

85 Peterborough Street, Christchurch Central, Christchurch 8013

Feb 24, 2025
Jul 14, 2025

Hamilton

94 Tristram Street, Hamilton Central, Hamilton 3204

Feb 24, 2025
Mar 24, 2025
Jul 14, 2025

Manukau

621 Great South Road, Manukau, Auckland 2104

Feb 24, 2025
Jul 14, 2025

Porirua

1 Prosser Street, Elsdon, Porirua 5022, Wellington

Feb 24, 2025
Jul 14, 2025