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A student looks back at the camera while he and some others climb a set of stairs.

New Zealand Certificate in Skills for Living for Supported Learners

This programme is for learners who need help taking their first steps into tertiary study. You’ll build confidence, independence, and life skills in a safe environment. Whether you want to study fulltime for one year or take your time as a part-time student over two years, we’ll support you and your whānau every step of the way.

Level
1
Credits
60 (1 EFTS)
Campus
Mt Albert
Start dates
February
Duration
1 year full-time or 2 years part-time

Call us now on 0800 10 95 10

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Programme overview

The New Zealand Certificate in Skills for Living for Supported Learners is aimed at learners with intellectual disabilities and other learning needs who require tailored support with learning. 

You’ll learn in a supportive environment where your goals, identity, and culture are valued. And we’ll walk alongside you as you gain confidence to move around your community, connect with others, and explore what’s next – whether it’s more study or getting ready for work.

What you’ll learn

You’ll learn practical skills for living that support your independence and help you feel confident in everyday life.
 
Key learning areas include:
  • Developing communication skills
  • Managing everyday living tasks
  • Working with others and building social skills
You’ll also learn how to travel safely, manage daily routines, and build relationships in real-life settings through hands-on, practical learning.
 

Talk and Tour

Before you apply for this programme, we would love for you to join our teaching team for a talk and tour session. 

These are for students, their families and whānau, support people, teachers, and transition specialists. Here, you can find out more about our programme and take a brief tour of our Mt. Albert campus. 

More Talk and Tour information

What comes next?

Graduates of this programme will be able to progress on to the New Zealand Certificate in Skills for Learning and Working for Supported Learners (Level 1), opening in 2026.

Admission requirements

To be admitted to this programme, all applicants must meet the following requirements:

  • Be 18 years or older on the first day of your first semester
  • Be a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident
  • Attend an interview with our academic team
    • We’ll talk with you and your whānau
    • You’ll fill out a student profile
    • This helps us understand your strengths, interests, and goals

English Language Admission Requirements

All applicants are also required to demonstrate a level of functional communication in English that allows them to participate in the programme.

For more information, download the programme regulations.

Courses and timetables

For more details on the courses including timetables, please click on the course names below.

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program code:NZCSS - NZCSS

Compulsory Course ID:014005 - 1101 - Oranga - Everyday Living
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Course count:324

Compulsory Course ID:014006 - 1102 - Mahere Puukenga - Planning and Literacies
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Course count:324

Compulsory Course ID:014007 - 1103 - Hauora - Health and Wellbeing
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Course count:324

Compulsory Course ID:014008 - 1104 - Rangatiratanga - Community Participation
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Course count:324

Compulsory first Course array:1

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Compulsory courses
Level 1
Courses Credits Aim
Oranga - Everyday Living(BPED1101) 15.0 credits (0.125 EFTS) This course introduces students to effective skills in managing everyday situations, including establishing good routines and time management using aids such as digital devices.
Mahere Puukenga - Planning and Literacies(BPED1102) 15.0 credits (0.125 EFTS) This course introduces students to effective functional literacy and numeracy skills in everyday situations and for planning a future pathway to achieve personal goals.
Hauora - Health and Wellbeing(BPED1103) 15.0 credits (0.125 EFTS) This course introduces students to the concept of personal safety, Hauora and problem-solving techniques in everyday living or community environments.
Rangatiratanga - Community Participation(BPED1104) 15.0 credits (0.125 EFTS) This course supports students in developing social skills and engaging in positive interactions in the community or in everyday situations.