About the programme
The New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Social and Community Services) Level 4 is an NZQF Level 4 programme at Skill New Zealand (Whitecliffe) that prepares learners to support individuals, families and whānau across health, wellbeing and community care services. It carries 120 credits and takes 46 weeks of full-time study.
The certificate suits people starting out in the health and wellbeing sector as well as those who already work there and want to progress. Learners build the knowledge, hands-on skills and professional attitudes behind person-centred support: communicating well and advocating for clients, working within Te Tiriti o Waitangi and Māori health contexts, and meeting safety and quality expectations inside health organisations.
Teaching mixes theory, independent study and work-integrated learning. Every learner completes 200 hours of supervised practicum in a real health or wellbeing workplace. Two delivery options are offered: scheduled on-campus classes for those who want face-to-face contact with tutors, or a blended model that pairs online study with campus sessions for learners juggling work or family.
Graduates can move into aged care, disability support, community health and social service roles. The qualification also leads on to Level 5 study, including public health and health promotion, youth work, the Level 5 health and wellbeing diploma and enrolled nursing.
Entry requirements
- Domestic applicants: NZ citizenship or permanent residence, NCEA Level 2 or equivalent, genuine interest in health support work, a successful interview and Police vetting before placement.
- International applicants: an appropriate NZ student visa, medical and travel insurance, aged 18 or over, enrolled full-time.
- International applicants need a Level 3 qualification or equivalent.
- English: IELTS Academic 5.5 with no band below 5.0, or an accepted equivalent.
- International applicants also need an interview, a current CV for the workplace and any checks the placement provider requires, which may include drug and alcohol screening.
What you study
- Effective Communication and Advocacy in Health
- Te Tiriti o Waitangi and Māori Health Contexts
- Personal Development and Reflective Practice in Health
- Professionalism, Safety and Quality in Health Organisations
- Community Health Work Sector
- Personalised Strategies for Health Goals
- Applying Health and Wellbeing Tools and Strategies
- Designing and Implementing Support Strategies
Careers after graduation
- Health Support Worker
- Community Health Worker
- Wellbeing Support Worker
- Healthcare Assistant
- Well Child Health Worker
- Tamariki Support Worker
- Roles across aged care, disability support and social services
Post-study work visa
Generally not available for this qualification
Depends on the qualification, the length of study and other Immigration New Zealand requirements.
This description is based on the official programme page, checked on 20/09/2026. Ask an NIU adviser about fees and intake dates — the programme page on the Whitecliffe website