Institute of Technology or Polytechnic
Ara Institute of CanterburyNew Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Mental Health and Addiction Support) (Level 4)
This course is available
On-Campus
Level of Study
Certificate
Duration
1 year
Next start date
Expected Feb 2027
Summary
This programme is designed to equip you to work effectively as a mental health and addiction support worker in the health and wellbeing sector.
You’ll acquire the skills required to support individuals to foster hope, build resilience, and reduce vulnerability. Your learning will include trauma-informed care, bicultural competence grounded in mātauranga Māori and Te Tiriti o Waitangi, culturally inclusive practice, and tools for de-escalation and conflict resolution. You’ll also develop strong communication skills that respect socio-cultural identity, alongside self-awareness, reflective practice and personal leadership.
As part of your studies, you’ll complete 200 hours of workplace practice, giving you hands-on experience in mental health and addiction settings that will prepare you for employment. If you're already employed or volunteering in a relevant organisation, this will count as your placement.
Check out the Health and Wellbeing FAQ's in the Documents section.
Part-time up to 4 years.
Entry criteria
Academic Requirements10 NCEA Level 1 literacy credits and 10 NCEA Level 1 numeracy credits
Or New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment Pathways (Level 3) Open Pathway, or equivalent
Additional RequirementsIn addition you need to provide:
- Referee Reports Provide evidence of good character and personal attributes via two referee reports.
- Signed Disclosure Form Successful applicants will be required to complete a disclosure form.
- Interview Applicants who meet entry criteria may be required to attend an interview to ensure they are a fit and proper person to provide support in the workplace.
- Consent to Disclosure of Information Successful applicants will be required to complete a New Zealand Police Consent to Disclosure of Information form.
Still 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 RequirementsWhat if English is not my first Language?
Overall IELTS 5.5 Academic
- 5.0 Listening
- 5.0 Reading
- 5.0 Writing
- 5.0 Speaking
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 New Zealand University Entrance?
If you have met New Zealand University Entrance requirements or acceptable alternatives as defined by NZQA you are not required to provide evidence of English Language proficiency.
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