Study & Employment Pathway (Health & Wellbeing) Level 3
Start on your journey towards a career in health & wellbeing with this level 3 course.
This course will help you build a strong foundation for a career in health and wellbeing. You’ll explore the modern health and wellbeing workplace, including the different roles and responsibilities within the sector.
With guidance from your tutors, you’ll research a health and wellbeing issue, share your findings, and apply what you’ve learned in real-world scenarios.
This programme helps students build confidence and get ready for work or further study in the health and wellbeing sector. It’s designed for learners who need extra support to prepare for their future career path.
Through hands-on, activity-based learning, students will gain important skills like communication, teamwork, and planning.
The programme is made up of three parts:
- Pathways Planning (20 credits): Students will explore future study and employment options in the health and wellbeing sector. They will create a personal pathway plan, develop a targeted CV, and identify the key skills needed for support work roles.
- Workplace Planning (20 credits): Students will learn what to expect in a support work role, including employer and service user expectations. They will build communication skills and apply the NZ Employment Skills Framework to real-world health and wellbeing roles.
- Project Planning (20 credits): Students will explore their own and others’ cultures in relation to support work. They will plan and complete projects or campaigns (both individually and in groups) that reflect cultural understanding and practical health and wellbeing skills. These hands-on activities will prepare them for general support tasks in the workplace.
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 course, you’ll build the skills and confidence to start your career in health and wellbeing.
You’ll learn how to work independently and as part of a team, focusing on achieving shared goals and supporting others. You’ll develop a personal plan for your future, build a professional CV, and identify the key skills needed for support work roles.
Communication and relationship-building are a strong focus, helping you feel confident when working with clients, colleagues, and people in the wider community.
You’ll also take part in projects that connect to your own values and identity, gaining experience and learning how to support the wellbeing of others in a meaningful way.
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
