Study & Employment Pathway (Health & Wellbeing) Level 3
Start your journey towards a career in health and wellbeing with real experience and industry support in this Level 3 course.
The Health and Wellbeing (Healthcare Assistance) programme will develop your skills, knowledge, and attributes to provide person-centred support that meets the needs of family, fono, and whānau in a healthcare setting.
Gain hands-on experience through a work placement, build your communication and teamwork skills, and prepare for a rewarding entry-level role in the health sector.
This programme helps students prepare for work in health and wellbeing settings such as home care, community services, and healthcare environments.
It develops essential skills for supporting individuals, families, and communities, including communication, ethical practice, recognising vulnerability, and providing culturally appropriate, person-centred care.
Students will engage in practical learning, reflection, and real-world experience to build confidence and readiness for employment or further study in the health sector.
The programme is made up of five parts:
1. Introduction to legislation, regulation, and codes of practice in health and wellbeing settings (10 credits):
Students will learn how laws are made in New Zealand and how legislation, procedures, and codes of practice guide safe and professional healthcare practice. They will apply this knowledge ethically in real scenarios and reflect on how these frameworks shape service delivery.
2. Providing effective culturally appropriate communication (10 credits):
Students will develop communication skills used in health and community settings, learning how to engage respectfully with people from diverse cultural backgrounds. They will adapt communication styles to meet different needs and reflect on their communication practice.
3. Recognising and responding to abuse and vulnerability (15 credits):
Students will learn to identify signs of different types of abuse and understand factors that contribute to vulnerability. They will practise responding appropriately, including reporting and planning processes, while recognising the importance of self-care in challenging situations.
4. Developing culturally appropriate person-centred practice (15 credits):
Students will explore the principles of person-centred care and how cultural perspectives influence service delivery. They will reflect on their own values and beliefs, adapting their practice to provide respectful, inclusive care for diverse individuals and communities.
5. Workplace practice in a health and wellbeing setting (20 credits):
Students will complete a 110-hour placement in a healthcare or community setting. They will apply their learning in real situations, work alongside professionals, and reflect on their development through self-assessment, goal setting, and evaluation of their practice.
To enrol in this course applicants must be over 16 years old, and a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident.
There are free study options available for eligible students.
To find out more about whether you are eligible to study free, complete our Study For Free Quiz
After completing this course, graduates will have the basic skills needed for entry-level jobs in health and wellbeing.
They may find work as a healthcare assistant, community support worker, or caregiver.
Graduates will be able to work under supervision, following health and safety rules, using basic care techniques, and communicating well in different health settings.
This qualification can also help them move on to further study in health and wellbeing or related fields, including the Level 4 Health & Wellbeing (Primary Care Practice Assistance) course at OCA.
You will learn
In this programme, you’ll build the knowledge, skills, and confidence to begin your career in health and wellbeing.
You’ll learn how to work safely and professionally by understanding New Zealand legislation, regulations, and codes of practice, and how these guide ethical decision-making in healthcare settings.
Communication is a key focus. You’ll develop the ability to communicate clearly and respectfully with people from a wide range of cultural backgrounds, adapting your approach to meet different needs and build positive relationships.
You’ll also learn how to recognise and respond to signs of abuse and vulnerability, and understand the importance of reporting concerns and looking after your own wellbeing when working in challenging situations.
The programme supports you to develop culturally appropriate, person-centred practice by exploring your own values, attitudes, and beliefs, and learning how to provide respectful, inclusive care for family, fono, and whānau.
Finally, you’ll put your learning into practice through a workplace placement, where you’ll gain real experience in a health or community setting, work alongside professionals, and reflect on your growth and future goals.
Studying at OCA
At OCA, you’ll be supported every step of the way with our Whānau Ora support, including access to services at The Fono.
Our culturally inclusive and welcoming environment ensures you feel comfortable while learning and growing. You’ll also receive ongoing mentoring, even after you start working.
Learning at OCA is hands-on and designed to match your learning style.
This project-based approach includes workshop practice, theory sessions, and practical projects to help you build confidence. You’ll work in groups, get plenty of feedback, and receive one-on-one support from experienced tutors who know their industry inside out.
The course has changed the way I think about my future… studying and wanting more for myself.
Health & Wellbeing Student
Meet the tutors
