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New Zealand Certificate in Foundation Skills (Level 2)

Starts: February 2026
Sullivan Ave; Madras Street; Timaru

Prepare for further study or employment with confidence and direction.

Please note that this programme is pending approval, but we are now accepting applications

This 17‑week, fees-free programme will grow your skills, build your confidence and help you discover your next step—whether that’s work or further study.

There are two pathways to choose from.

The Foundation option focuses on developing your academic and employability skills to help you move into study, the workforce, or community-based opportunities.

The Trades option is more hands‑on, letting you try out trades such as carpentry, automotive, engineering and electrical so you can get a feel for what you enjoy and what you’d like to study further.

This programme has open entry.

Funding assistance

If you face unexpected financial hardship during your studies, we have several funds that you can apply for. These are designed to enable you to continue your current course of study. We also have a wide range of scholarships and awards that can provide financial assistance.

Find out more

Career opportunities

This foundation certificate will prepare you for entry level employment in your chosen area of interest.

Study pathways

This foundation certificate will prepare you for further study at Level 3.

New Zealand Certificate in Foundation Skills (Level 2)

Prepare for further study or employment with confidence and direction.

Information
Type Certificate
Code NZ2862
Next starts February 2026
Credits 60
Level 2
May be eligible for Studylink? Yes
Reference NZ2862-MAIN
Enquire Now View Dates & Apply
Trades Primer - New Zealand Certificate in Foundation Skills (Level 2) - Feb - Woolston
Start date: 02 February 2026
Apply
Foundation - NZ Cert in Foundation Skills - Feb 2026 - Christchurch
Start date: 16 February 2026
Apply
Foundation - NZ Cert in Foundation Skills - Jul 2026 - Christchurch
Start date: 20 July 2026
Apply
Trades Primer - New Zealand Certificate in Foundation Skills (Level 2) - July - Timaru
Start date: 27 July 2026
Apply
Trades Primer - New Zealand Certificate in Foundation Skills (Level 2) - July - Woolston
Start date: 27 July 2026
Apply

With an internationally-recognised Ara qualification, the world is your oyster. Our graduates can be found working and making a difference across the globe…

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Credit Recognition

If you have prior relevant experience or previous related study credits, you may be eligible for credit recognition towards this qualification.

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Documents

Area of Interest

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