Institute of Technology or Polytechnic
Ara Institute of CanterburyCertificate in Outdoor and Adventure Education (Multi-skilled) (Level 4)
This course is available
On-Campus
Level of Study
Certificate
Duration
1 year
Next start date
Expected Feb 2027
Campus
Christchurch - City Campus
Summary
Taught by some of the most qualified educators and instructors in the country, this programme will give you skills across a range of outdoor activities and enable you to lead others in some of those activities, under supervision in low-risk outdoor environments. It covers adventure leadership, performance and health, kaitiakitanga and environmental education, sea kayaking, rock climbing, bush walking and leadership in mountain biking and bush walking.
You'll learn about equipment, weather, local conditions, logistics and safety management, leadership theories, sustainability, performance, cultural and environmental respect. Work-integrated learning plays a big part, with interactive activities simulating real-world work situations as much as possible.
In addition to gaining this qualification, you'll also acquire the New Zealand Outdoor Instructors Association Bush Leader award as part of your studies. Part-time up to 3 years.
Please note: to participate in this programme and complete it successfully, it’s important that you’re able to swim at least 50m, ride a bike and carry a full overnight hiking pack on multi-day trips.
Entry criteria
Academic RequirementsNCEA Level 1 (80 credits at Level 1, including 10 Literacy credits and 10 Numeracy credits)
If you have undertaken examinations other than NCEA (e.g. International Baccalaureate, Cambridge Examination), Ara will assess your qualification for academic entry equivalency.
Additional RequirementsIn addition you need to:
Complete sections 2 and 3 of the New Zealand Police Vetting Service Request and Consent Form. Please return the completed form to Ara.
Hold a current two-day Comprehensive First Aid Certificate. First Aid training can be completed through any authorised provider.
Alternative RequirementsStill want to study but don't meet the Academic Requirements?
If you show that you have equivalent skills for tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, you may be able to gain alternative entry.
Note: The number of courses you have to complete for this qualification may be reduced where you have relevant credits from previous study, or evidence of similar learning or experience in the workplace.
English RequirementsOverall IELTS 5.5 Academic
- 5.0 Listening
- 5.0 Reading
- 5.0 Writing
- 5.0 Speaking
What if English is not my first Language?
If English is not your first language, we want to make sure that you will be successful in your chosen programme of study.
- Please provide a result from a test or qualification on the acceptable alternatives
- English Proficiency Outcomes Chart.
- If you are a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident, complete an Admission and Enrolment form and Ara will contact you regarding a free assessment.
- If you are not a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent resident, please book a PTE Academic test through the Ara Examination Centre or complete an NZQA-approved English language test in your home country.
- IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form and are valid for two years from the date of the test.
- What if I have achieved NCEA Level 3 University Entrance?
- You do not need to provide additional evidence of English Language skills.
Disclaimer
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