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New Zealand Certificate in Foundation Skills (Level 1)

New Zealand Certificate in Foundation Skills (Level 1)

This programme provides a supported pathway into further study and employment for people who have yet to achieve a tertiary qualification.
NZQF Level
Level 1
Duration (in weeks)
20 (Full Time)
Credits
60
Location(s)
Mangere
Fees
Fully-funded
New Zealand Certificate in Foundation Skills (Level 1)

The  purpose of this programme is to equip young people (16 to 19 years of age)  with core capabilities of confidence, basic knowledge and skills, literacy, and  numeracy in a range of simple and structured context required for further study  at NZQF Level 2 or 3 and gain essential employment skills for entry level roles.

Course Content

Hauora 

  • Introduction to Māori philosophy of health and wellbeing unique to New  Zealand and within the context of sport and fitness. 
  • Personal wellbeing plan  
  • Employability and further study skills 
  • Interview and CV writing skills. 
  • Impacts of violence, alcohol and other drugs on the health and  wellbeing of self and whanau and strategies to deal with them.
  • Creation and maintenance of a basic personal budget 
  • Teamwork 

Manaakitanga 

  • Introduction to the concept of respect, care and consideration for each  other in a potential workplace. 
  • Contributing to creating a positive work environment. 

Te Ao Matauranga and Matauranga Māori 

  • Introduction to critical thinking 
  • Time Managememt 
  • Use of the internet and understanding the roles and functions of  community agencies 
  • Strategies to deal with cyber bullying.  
  • Insight into different perspectives about knowledge and  
  • Knowing one's own whakapapa.  

Rangatiratanga 

  • Developing leadership skills 
  • Workplace communication 
  • Personal career goals  
  • Te Tiriti O Waitangi  
  • Protocols- tikanga/or kawa of a powhiri.
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Entry Requirements

Students must: 

  • Be at least 15 years of age or higher with evidenced MOE exemption  before the start of the programme. 
  • Be 16 to 19 years of age. 
  • Not be enrolled in Secondary School. 
  • Be a New Zealand resident or citizen (this programme is not open to  international students). 
  • Be able to demonstrate a positive attitude and commitment to complete  the programme.  
  • Not have achieved a tertiary qualification on the NZQF.
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Pathways

Education Pathway

This qualification can lead to: 

  • The New Zealand Certificate in Foundation Skills (Level 2) [Ref: 2862]
  • National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA) (Level 2) [Ref:  0973] 
  • Further study or training at New Zealand Qualifications Framework Level  2 and above.

Employment Pathway

Graduates will be able to participate effectively in their whānau and/or wider  community and work in structured entry-level roles, with embedded training  and support.

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Upcoming Intake
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Scheduled Classes

Scheduled Classes 

5 hours (Full time) per week (Total 500 hours)

Learning Activities 

5 hours per week of home study (Total 100 hours) (These will be directed by  your class tutor)

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FAQs

Do I need any prior qualifications or experience to enrol in a course?

Many of our courses are open-entry, which means no prior qualifications are required. Some programmes may have specific requirements, which will be listed in the course details. Our team can help you find the right fit based on your background and goals.

Are courses available part-time or online?

Availability depends on the course - check the programme page or talk to our team to explore what works best for your schedule.

What happens if I need to withdraw from the course?

If your circumstances change, our support team can guide you through the withdrawal process and discuss any implications for fees or re-enrolment.

What kind of practical experience will I get during the course?

Most Lifeskills programmes include practical, hands-on components such as workshops, simulated environments, or real-world placements to help you gain industry-ready experience.

Will I need to bring or buy any materials or equipment?

Some courses may require specific tools, uniforms, or materials. In many cases, these are provided or subsidised. You’ll receive a detailed list of requirements for your programme during the enrolment process.

Do I need any prior qualifications or experience to enrol in a course?

Lifeskills programmes will have specific entry requirements. You can find these in the course pages.

Is my qualification approved and accredited?

Lifeskills qualifications are approved and listed on the New Zealand Qualifications Framework (NZQA). NZQA is the government body that oversees quality assurance for New Zealand qualifications.

Can I use this qualification to progress into further study?

All programmes will either lead to further study or apprenticeship or employment opportunities.

What kind of practical experience will I get during the course?

Most Lifeskills programmes include practical, hands-on components such as workshops, simulated environments, or real-world placements to help you gain industry-ready experience.

Enquire
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