New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Social and Community Services) (Whānau, Community and Social Services)
Support individuals, whānau and communities to thrive.
This programme prepares you to work in a variety of social and community support roles within the health and wellbeing sector.
You’ll learn how to support people facing challenges such as housing insecurity, family violence, disability, and social isolation. Your studies will cover tools and strategies for community development, advocacy, trauma-informed care, and culturally inclusive practice. You’ll also develop strong interpersonal and intrapersonal skills, ethical decision-making, and bicultural competence grounded in mātauranga Māori and Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
You’ll be equipped to work alongside individuals, whānau and communities to support autonomy, identify goals, reduce vulnerability, build resilience and help people achieve their aspirations.
As part of your studies, you’ll complete 200 hours of workplace practice, giving you hands-on experience in whānau, community and social service settings that will prepare you for employment. If you're already employed or volunteering in a relevant agency, this will be your placement.
Check out the Health and Wellbeing FAQ's on the right.
Part-time up to 4 years.
Fees for 2026
10 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
In addition you need to provide:
- Information on the NZ Police Vetting Service is available from the New Zealand Police website.
- 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.
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
- 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, book an IELTS or other test through the Ara Examination Centre or 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.
- You do not need to provide additional evidence of English Language skills.
Overall IELTS 5.5 Academic
- 5.0 Listening
- 5.0 Reading
- 5.0 Writing
- 5.0 Speaking
Funding assistance
If you face unexpected financial hardship during your studies, we have several funds that you can apply for. These are designed to enable you to continue your current course of study. We also have a wide range of scholarships and awards that can provide financial assistance.
Find out moreCareer opportunities
As a graduate of this programme, you’ll be prepared for entry-level support roles in the health and wellbeing sector. Employment opportunities may include community organisations, social service agencies, housing and advocacy services, disability support, aged care support and whānau-centred services.
Study pathways
On completion of this programme, you may be eligible to progress into further study such as the Bachelor of Social Work.
Recommended school subjects
- English
- Mathematics
New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Social and Community Services) (Whānau, Community and Social Services)
Support individuals, whānau and communities to thrive.
| Information | |
|---|---|
| Type | Certificate |
| Code | NZ2992 |
| May be available for Study Visa? | Yes |
| Credits | 120 |
| Level | 4 |
| May be eligible for Studylink? | Yes |
| May be eligible for Fees Free? | Yes |
| Reference | NZ2992-WCSS |
Fees for 2026
With an internationally-recognised Ara qualification, the world is your oyster. Our graduates can be found working and making a difference across the globe…
MoreAdditional Entry Requirements
In addition you need to provide:
- Information on the NZ Police Vetting Service is available from the New Zealand Police website.
- 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.
Credit Recognition
If you have prior relevant experience or previous related study credits, you may be eligible for credit recognition towards this qualification.
Find out moreDocuments
- Admission & Enrolment Form PDF, 431 KB
- International Application Form PDF, 358 KB
Area of Interest
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