The NZ Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Healthcare Assistance Strand) (Level 3) is an entry-to-intermediate healthcare qualification designed to prepare students for roles as healthcare assistants and support workers.

• Focus on person-centred care, communication, and patient support
• Includes compulsory work placement arranged by Future Skills
• Builds skills to work under supervision in hospitals, aged care, and community settings

Why Study This Course?

• Develop skills to become a Healthcare Assistant
• Gain real-world experience through work placement
• Learn culturally safe and professional care practices
• Strong demand in NZ healthcare sector
• Pathway to Level 4 healthcare or nursing programmes

Programme Structure / Subjects

Core Topics

• Human body structure & functions
• Professional healthcare practice
• Communication in healthcare settings
• Health and safety procedures
• Equipment and materials use

Practical Learning

• Person-centred care
• Recognising patient needs and risks
• Supporting wellbeing and independence
• Responding to vulnerability and abuse

Disciplines / Specialisation

• Healthcare Assistance
• Aged Care
• Community Support
• Hospital Support Services

Highlights

• Work placement included (key advantage)
• Short duration (6–9 months)
• Industry-recognised NZQA qualification
• Strong demand for healthcare workers
• Flexible full-time or part-time options
• Pathway to Level 4 and nursing programmes

Career Outcomes

Graduates can work as:

• Healthcare Assistant
• Aged Care Worker
• Support Worker
• Caregiver

Industry Demand (Latest Insights)

• Healthcare employs ~55,000 workers in NZ
• Around 8,000 job vacancies
• Demand rising due to:
  • Ageing population
  • Staff shortages

Special Requirements

• Compulsory work placement
• Must be physically fit for caregiving tasks
• Must meet:
  • Police vetting
  • Health & vaccination requirements
• Attendance requirement: ~80% minimum

Further Study Pathways

After completion:

• NZ Certificate in Health & Wellbeing (Level 4)
• Mental Health & Addiction Support (Level 4)
• Nursing or healthcare diplomas 

Final Expert Summary

This programme is:

• A strong entry-level healthcare qualification
  
• Combines theory + real work experience
  
• High-demand career pathway in NZ healthcare sector