Institute of Technology or Polytechnic
Toi Ohomai Institute of TechnologyNew Zealand Diploma in Whānau Ora (Level 5)
This course is available
On-Campus
Level of Study
Diploma
Duration
1 year
Next start date
Expected Feb 2027
Summary
Are you passionate about supporting whānau to thrive? This diploma is for people who want to work alongside whānau, hapū and communities to strengthen wellbeing and build capability.
The essence of Whānau Ora is placing whānau/families at the centre of practice in health and social services. In this diploma, you'll gain a strong foundational knowledge of philosophies of wellbeing, explore social work concepts in bicultural context, and learn to reflect critically on your practice.
Ideal for those already working in social services or community roles, or looking to develop your career, this qualification will develop your skills in whānau-centred practice.
Delivered through blended learning, this course offers flexibility for working professionals and those with whānau commitments. Content will be delivered online, with one class (practice workshop) on campus per week. On this in-class day you will put your learning into practice and get support from your kaiako (teacher) on content and assessments.
These important kaupapa will be taught through the lens of the following guiding principles of the diploma:
whanaungatanga - "by listening, relationships can grow" kaitiakitanga - "protect the environment, protect the whānau" te tika me te pono - "by doing what's right, the truth shines" manaakitanga - "through nurturing, the whānau will thrive" rangatiratanga - "show up and rise" ngā pūkenga - "stand strong, stand brave, stand skilled"
If you’re keen to take your study further, you may be eligible to continue into the Bachelor of Social Work.
Upon successfully completing the requirements you'll receive the award of:
New Zealand Diploma in Whānau Ora (Level 5)
Entry criteria
You must be:
- 17 years of age or over
- A New Zealand citizen, permanent resident, or have the requisite visa for study purposes, and
- Able to demonstrate adequate literacy and/or numeracy skills to enable you to meet all academic and health and safety requirements of this course.
If you are under 20 years old you must also have:
- University Entrance, or NCEA Level 3 including 14 credits each in three approved Level 3 subjects, 10 literacy credits at Level 2 or above (five in reading and five in writing), and 10 numeracy credits at Level 1 or above made up of specified achievement standards or unit standards 26623, 26626 and 26627, OR
- Evidence of ability to complete the academic requirements for the course.
If you are 20 years old or over you must also have:
- Demonstrated academic ability (at NZQA Level 4 or equivalent) to undertake this course and have the ability to succeed through personal attributes, work and life experience.
COVID-19 Vaccination Information
You don’t need to supply evidence of your COVID-19 vaccination status to apply for this programme. However, some placement providers may require evidence from you that you are fully vaccinated before allowing you to complete a placement at their organisation. Placements are an integral part of this programme and you’ll need to complete these to be able to successfully achieve your qualification.
Other Requirements:
If you have had a criminal conviction at any time in the past you must declare the circumstances in confidence as part of the selection process;
All applicants accepted will be required to provide a signed consent form which allows Toi Ohomai to check your record of convictions upon entry, during and prior to completing the degree;
You will be accepted only after the police check is processed. All applicants with any convictions will be required to attend an individual interview with a relevant department staff member; and
Two character references are required. These should be from persons in positions of trust such as an employer, teacher, pastor, kaumātua or kuia. References from family, friends or work colleagues will not be accepted.
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