Courses &
Programmes

Q: Can I visit the campus before applying?

Yes! We’d love to meet you. Just fill in this form , and let us know when you’d like to visit.

Courses & Programmes

Studying at OCA

We offer a range of NZQA accredited courses & programmes in Construction, Health & Wellbeing, and more – helping you start your career journey.

Our courses give you the skills and support you need to succeed. Everyone’s path is different, so we’re here to help you gain confidence, learn practical skills, and take the next step toward your goals.

You’ll learn from experienced tutors, set career goals, and get support connecting with employers. Whether you’re preparing for work or further study, we’ll be with you every step of the way.

Foundation Skills in Carpentry & Fabrication

NZQA Level 2

20 weeks

Learn more

Construction Trade Skills (Carpentry)

NZQA Level 3

42 weeks

Learn more

Construction Trade Skills (Paint and Plaster)

NZQA Level 3

20 weeks

Learn more

Foundation Skills in Health & Wellbeing

NZQA Level 2

20 weeks

Learn more

Foundation Skills ‘Ake’

NZQA Level 1

20 weeks

Learn more

Ignition – Work & Study Skills Programme

4 weeks followed by up to 12 weeks of support

Learn more

Study for free at OCA

Ready to join us at OCA but not sure if you’re eligible to study for free?

Take our short quiz and find out what funding you might be eligible for, before you apply.

Visit Us

Come and see what you can do at OCA. You can come visit us at our Ascot Road campus, Monday to Friday.

Just fill in the form at the link and we’ll see you soon!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there entry requirements for OCA courses?OCA Marketing2025-04-01T17:19:11+13:00

Are there entry requirements for OCA courses?

Entry requirements are different for each of our courses and programmes, so check the course page for more information.

Can I study for free at OCA?OCA Marketing2025-04-01T17:20:04+13:00

Can I study for free at OCA?

Different funding is available for students, depending on what course or programme they are applying for. To check whether you might be eligible to study free with us, take our short quiz.

Can I visit the campus before applying?OCA Marketing2025-04-01T16:23:32+13:00

Can I visit the campus before applying?

Yes! We’d love to meet you. Just fill in this form, and let us know when you’d like to visit.

How do I apply for a course at OCA?OCA Marketing2025-04-01T16:25:29+13:00

How do I apply for a course at OCA?

You can complete the online application form, call us on 0800 622 871, or drop in to our campus between 8:00am and 4:00pm Monday to Friday and talk with our course advisors, and they’ll help you get started!

What happens after I apply?OCA Marketing2025-04-01T16:28:44+13:00

What happens after I apply?

If you apply online, you’ll receive an email immediately after the form is completed. The email includes an invitation to a talanoa with us, so we can meet (either online or in person) to find out more about you and give you some more information about OCA and the course you’re applying for.

If you apply in person or over the phone, the course adviser you speak to will explain what more information they need to move your application to the next step!

Do I need to have completed NCEA?OCA Marketing2025-04-01T16:36:10+13:00

Do I need to have completed NCEA?

No, there is no need to have achieved NCEA Level 1 or 2 to join our courses or programmes. During the enrolment process, your course advisor will talk to you about your level of education and if further support is needed for you to be successful in the course, this will be discussed with you.

What happens if I’m struggling with the course?OCA Marketing2025-04-01T16:37:36+13:00

What happens if I’m struggling with the course?

OCA is committed to helping all our students to achieve their best. Our tutors and navigators will work with you to get the support and help you need to succeed in the course.

Can I study part-time or online?OCA Marketing2025-04-01T17:11:40+13:00

Can I study part-time or online?

Some of our Level 3 courses offer part-time study options. Our Level 1 and Level 2 courses are only available for full-time study.

The only course which currently offers a combination of in-person and online learning is our Part-time Construction Trade Skills (Carpentry) Level 3. This is because the course was designed for people who are working full time who are only available on evenings and weekends.

What support will I receive at OCA?OCA Marketing2025-04-01T17:14:13+13:00

What support will I receive at OCA?

We offer full support, including mentoring and help with your studies, to help you succeed.

Our wraparound Whānau Ora support means that we are with you every step of the way, to make sure you get the help you need, whatever that might be. Find out more

Can I apply if I’m not a NZ citizen or permanent resident?OCA Marketing2025-04-01T17:19:51+13:00

Can I apply if I’m not a NZ citizen or permanent resident?

Unfortunately only New Zealand citizens or permanent residents are able to enrol for courses and programmes at OCA.