Course details

Certificate in Disability Support (Level 3)
NZQF Level 3

About the course

Duration : 22 teaching weeks plus 2 study break weeks (plus 4 weeks summer break depending on intake start date). Face to face learning activities / Clinical Placement are normally scheduled over 3 days per week.

Delivery : You can expect the following workload for the theory modules:

  • 20 hours per week engaging in face-to-face learning activities.
  • 10 hours per week completing independent study tasks.

For 5 of the last 6 weeks of the programme you will be required to complete 120 hours of practicum in a commercial disability setting (24 hours per week). The 6th week is for feedback activities relating to the practicum


Graduates will be able to...

Apply knowledge of relevant legislation, regulations and codes in a health and wellbeing setting to provide health and wellbeing services in an ethical and professional manner.

Recognise and respond to signs of vulnerability and abuse in a health or wellbeing setting.

Communicate effectively in a culturally appropriate manner to support a person's health or wellbeing.

Provide culturally appropriate person-centred health and wellbeing support to maximise a person's independence.

Recognise and respond to signs of functional, behavioural, environmental or other health or wellbeing change in a person, in a home or community setting.


Entry requirements

Domestic students –

  • At least 16 years of age at programme start date.
  • 8 credits at NCEA Level 1 in English (4 in reading, 4 in writing) or equivalent.
  • Minimum of 3 years secondary education.
  • There are no minimum academic requirements for applicants 20 years of age and over


International students –

  • At least 18 years of age at programme start date.
  • Year 12 or 13 qualification or equivalent (high school) including at least one science subject.
  • IELTS 5.0 with individual no bands less than 5.0 or equivalent as per the English Language Proficiency Requirements for International students determined by NZQA.
    These are specified in the table found at http://www.nzqa.govt.nz/about-us/our-role/legislation/nzqa-rules/nzqf-related-rules/the-table/

About the provider

Kauri Academy NZ is an international school whose expertise is based on the long heritage of PNTC Colleges Philippines. Established in 1994, PNTC has almost 20 years experience in tertiary education and a proven reputation for training thousands of quality workers in the global service industry.

It is this relationship that gives us a unique insight into education in the global setting, an understanding of education from the point of view of the international student.

We know the high standards required by the international community. We also realise that foreign students expect this quality of education to come with a truly memorable and enriching experience.