New Zealand Certificate in Youth Work (Level 4)
Social Services
A course by
Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology
Gain practical youth work skills with a Level 4 certificate, preparing you to guide and mentor rangatahi (youth) in New Zealand through a blend of online and in-person learning.
Blended study
This is a mix of online learning & face-to-face sessions
Available in 2 locations
It will take a total of 6 months
Core skills this course teaches
Apply professional boundaries and ethics in youth work
Demonstrate appropriate professional parameters and ethical conduct within a youth work environment.
Support youth wellbeing and development
Identify and respond to youth health concerns and assist rangatahi in developing essential life skills and making positive choices.
Effectively engage with diverse youth cultures
Understand and engage with the cultural backgrounds, needs, and aspirations of young people, including transformative practices relevant to Aotearoa.
What You're Signing Up For
This qualification prepares students to work in intermediate roles within the youth work sector, supporting young people in Aotearoa New Zealand. It emphasises positive role modelling, mentoring, and guidance to help rangatahi (10–24 years old) develop life skills and achieve positive outcomes. The course is designed for flexibility, with blended delivery, and includes 200 hours of practical experience. Kaiako (teaching staff) help ākonga (students) arrange suitable work placements. Study topics span professional parameters, youth health, culture, and applied youth development, equipping graduates for work in agencies, community groups, marae, and faith organisations.
Course Content
- Professional Parameters for Youth Work
- Youth Health
- Youth Culture and Transformative Practice
- Applied Practice for Youth Development
- 200 hours of practical work experience in youth work
What you need to know first
NCEA Level 2 with passes in English or Te Reo Māori, or alternative educational achievement
Police vetting (consent to record of convictions check)
Two character references from persons in positions of trust (not family, friends, or colleagues)
Possible interview if convictions are disclosed
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Youth Work
Community Services
Social Services
Future employment opportunities might be
Youth work roles in peer support groups
Youth service agencies
Community, marae or faith-based group programmes
Intermediate positions in the youth work sector
Known for hands-on, industry-aligned education, Toi Ohomai focuses on giving learners real skills that lead to real outcomes. With strong employer connections, supportive teaching, and clear pathways across certificates, diplomas, and degrees, it’s a place where learning stays relevant and confidence grows over time. Programmes span trades, construction, business, health, creative industries, technology, and primary industries, helping learners build experience and momentum for whatever comes next.