New certificate in Community Support Services
Posted On: Monday, 05 July 2010
In collaboration with Gracelands, Wintec now offers the National Certificate in Community Support Services (foundation skills, level 2) in Te Awamutu, Thames, Te Kuiti and Taumarunui.
The programme is aimed at those considering returning to the workforce or wishing to upskill and enter the health support services sector.
“The health and disability sector in New Zealand has a strong and continuing need for a professional, skilled and qualified workforce, particularly in rural areas,” says Marlene Perry, manager of Wintec’s Te Kuiti campus.
Gracelands – a not for profit charitable trust that provides a range of community support services for people with disabilities – saw a need for a foundation skills programme to address the shortage of qualified community support service workers in the Waikato region.
The Government estimates that there are currently 20,000 non-registered community caregivers in New Zealand, and this is expected to grow as our population ages.
This new programme is supported by a cross section of regional health providers and community representatives, including Waikato DHB, North King Country Health Workforce Development Group, Heartland Services-Taumarunui, Waitomo and Otorohanga District Councils, and the New Zealand Institute of Rural Health.
The National Certificate in Community Support Services is offered over 15 weeks, covering nine modules which include practical work-based sessions at health and disability providers in the Waikato.
Gracelands Employment Services will interview all graduates to encourage and assist with securing them employment in the region. The employment arm is a key factor of the programme as it offers an opportunity for people to continue their qualifications at a higher level through on-the-job training with Careerforce Industry Training Organisation. There is also a graduate pathway at Wintec for students wishing to specialise in the health sector.
For more information please contact Marlene Perry on 07 878 6558.