New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Peer Support) (Level 4)
Social Services
A course by
Whitireia & WelTec
Develop the skills to become a Peer Support worker. Learn to foster hope, resilience, and self-determination, and support peers and whānau through effective communication strategies, leadership, and the power of lived experience.
Blended study
This is a mix of online learning & face-to-face sessions
It will take a total of 1 year


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Work effectively as a peer support worker
Demonstrate the skills, knowledge, and self-care practices required for effective peer support.

Apply lived experience to support others
Reflect on and professionally share personal lived experience to assist peers and whānau experiencing distress.

Build effective professional relationships
Develop communication strategies that respect diversity and foster partnerships.
What You're Signing Up For
The New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Peer Support) (Level 4) prepares students for roles as peer support workers, enabling them to use their lived experiences to help people and whānau experiencing distress. The programme blends face-to-face, online, and work-integrated learning, and covers peer support tools, communication strategies, cultural responsiveness, building resilience, leadership, and professional ethics.
Course Content
- The Lived Experience: developing and sharing your own story to support others
- Whānaungatanga: building professional relationships with peers
- Peer Tools: using practical support strategies and advocacy
- Leadership: promoting wellbeing and quality improvement, teamwork, and understanding ethical/legal responsibilities
What you need to know first
NCEA Level 1 or equivalent
Referee reports and safety check to meet legislation
Possible health screening for placement settings

What sort of industry will this job lead to
Health and Social Services

Future employment opportunities might be
Peer Support Worker
Community Support Worker
Health and Wellbeing Support Roles


Coming Soon: Nexties Explorer
Our AI-powered Explorer is almost ready. Soon, you’ll be able to build a dynamic profile of your skills, goals, and strengths, and get a curated selection of courses just for you.
More details