New Zealand Certificate in Disability Support (Level 4)

This programme aims to develop disability support practitioners who can apply professional, ethical, rights-based and person-centred approaches to support disabled people and whānau in a range of disability support settings.

The programme consists of seven modules totalling 120 credits at NZQA Level 4 and is delivered through face-to-face, on-site learning.

The programme is available through both full-time and part-time study options. It is designed to develop disability support practitioners who can apply professional, ethical, rights-based and person-centred approaches when supporting disabled people and whānau across a range of disability support settings.

Content includes:

• Module 1: Disability Support Practice in Aotearoa New Zealand
• Module 2: Person-Centred Practice and Rights-based Support
• Module 3: Supporting Complex Disability Needs through Enabling Good Lives
• Module 4: Communication and Engagement in Disability Support Settings
• Module 5: Professional Development, Wellbeing and Reflective Practices
• Module 6: Cultural Responsiveness, Inclusion and Participation
• Module 7: Disability Support Workplace Practice

Work placement:

• A compulsory 400-hour workplace experience is required. The NZSVET Academic Manager will assist in arranging a suitable workplace for students not already working in a disability support organisation.
  
• The programme is delivered over 31 teaching weeks, with 3 non-teaching weeks, for a total of 34 weeks of full-time study, or 62 teaching weeks, with 3 non-teaching weeks, for a total of 65 weeks of part-time study.

Applicants must:

• Be at least 17 years old.
• Hold the New Zealand Certificate in Disability Support (Level 3).
• Hold the New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Level 3) with strands in Healthcare Assistance, Newborn Hearing Screening, Orderly Services, Support Work, or Vision Hearing Screening; OR
• Hold an equivalent qualification; OR
• Have significant relevant experience, lived experience or capability in a related role.
• Undergo a satisfactory New Zealand Police Vetting/Criminal Record Check. The outcome of the police check will be retained in the applicant's file in accordance with NZSVET policies and relevant privacy legislation.
• Successfully complete an interview with the Program Lead/ Academic manager to determine their readiness, motivation, English language communication ability, and suitability for study and workplace placement.

• Provide evidence of English language proficiency appropriate for study at Level 4. For example, an IELTS Academic score of 5.5 overall, with no band score lower than 5.0, or an equivalent score in another recognised English language proficiency test. English language test results must have been obtained within the two years prior to the programme commencement date and must meet the applicable NZQA English language proficiency requirements.
• have a valid visa covering the period of study and appropriate medical and travel insurance.

NZSVET is a school located in the heart of Auckland CBD. We saw the current shortage of skilled health care workers in New Zealand and were excited to be in a position to meet this need by offering Nationally recognised training in this area.

What makes us different and enables us to stand out is that we are a boutique school, training a small number of students each year, therefore giving you a more personalised experience.

Our staff care about people. To care for those who once cared for us is one of the highest honours, and this starts with quality training.

When you come and study with us, you become part of our whānau where we genuinely care about you, your needs, and your future career. You’re not just a number, and you won’t get lost in the crowd.