Reset All
Tag template
School
|
Schools Resources/General

Can the resources be altered to accessible formats (large print, screen reader friendly)

Yes. Our downloadable PDF’s are not encrypted, so you can use third-party tools or accessibility software to adjust font size, colours, or convert them to screen reader-friendly formats.

School
|
Schools Resources/General

How often are resources reviewed or up versioned? Will teachers be notified?

Resource updates are guided by changes with NZQA. When NZQA updates unit standards or qualifications, we review and update our resources accordingly. Any upcoming changes are published in NZQA’s monthly change report which you can view here: Change reports - NZQA

School
|
Schools Resources/General

What to do if my downloads do not work correctly or disappear?

Please contact the schools team: schools@competenz.org.nz

School
|
Schools Resources/General

What if I’ve ordered the wrong thing?

Please check your order carefully before confirming. As we use a print on demand system with an external company we are unable to accept returns for ordering mistakes. If you believe you have received the wrong item, (different from what you ordered), please contact as at: resources.help@competenz.org

School
|
Schools Resources/General

How long does delivery of print resources take? What if they don’t arrive?

Print resources are typically delivered within 5 working days (from your confirmation email). If they have not arrived within this period, please contact us at: resources.help@competenz.org.nz

School
|
Schools Resources/General

Can I have a PDF emailed?

Upon ordering resources, you will be sent a downloadable link with a PDF to your email used to purchase. Please note this download will expire after 7 days.

In any other circumstances we are unable to email PDF’s of our resources.

School
|
Schools Resources/General

Are the resources the most up to date / why are they not the most up to date?

We aim to provide the most current versions of print resources wherever possible. However, in some cases, a sector may shift to online-only content, which is available exclusively to Competenz learners. We will continue to supply valid, print-ready unit standards for schools as long as it is practical to do so.

School
|
Schools Resources/General

If I see an error in the resources, who can I contact?

If you spot an error or something unclear in the resources, please email a clear description or screenshot of the issue to resource.help@competenz.org.nz. This will help our design team review and correct the materials as quickly as possible.

School
|
Schools Resources/General

Can teachers use the same login?

No each teacher must create their own unique login and password to access school resources.

School
|
Schools Resources/General

Who do I contact if I need help?

If you need help or have any questions about accessing resources, placing orders, or technical issues, please contact the Competenz Schools Support Team:

  • Phone: 0800 526 1800 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM)

They will be happy to assist you!

School
|
Schools Resources/General

What if I forget my password?

Please follow the prompts to reset your password through the website.

School
|
Schools Resources/General

If my download link expires, how can I access my paid for resources?

Please contact the schools team: schools@competenz.org.nz

School
|
Schools Resources/General

How long do I have to use my download link

Upon ordering resources, you will be sent a downloadable link with a PDF to your email used to purchase. Please note this download will expire after 7 days.

School
|
Schools Resources/General

What are the copyright/licensing restrictions on how resources are used or shared?

These materials are protected under the Copyright Act 1994 (NZ) and the publisher (not the purchaser or institution) retains full copyright.  Unless under specific licensing agreement in writing, there is to be no copying, scanning, sharing or uploading without a license. This applies to print and digital copies.

School
|
Schools Resources/General

Can I photocopy the resources

No, you generally cannot photocopy, scan, or alter these resources as they are protected under copyright and intellectual property rights. Copying them, even for educational purposes is not permitted without explicit permission from Competenz.

School
|
Schools Resources/General

How do I login or register for the Competenz Schools’ Resources?

To register, visit the login page and enter your details to create an account.  

Please note we have updated our website in July 2025 and you will need to re-register if you have logged in previously. Once this is done simply log in using your credentials.

School
|
Projects

What work do learners need to do for each of the Level 2 MaPS units?

Level 2 has a theory component and a practical assessment. For the practical assessment please read the first 1-4 pages of the Assessment Guide in each unit standard.

School
|
Consent to Assess

Do we need to get projects pre-moderated if they are different from the Competenz project examples?

No, projects your students undertake in school are the evidence and learning they develop and use towards the assessment of the standards. A project is deemed acceptable so long as the project meets the learning intentions of the unit standard.

School
|
MaPS

Is there a training plan for Manufacturing Pathway Skills units?

Yes please see table below

School
|
Schools Resources/Units

Schools Resources/Units

School
|
Schools Resources/Units

How do I find if my school has current consent to assess (CTA)?

1. Go to https://www.nzqa.govt.nz/framework/explore/index.do and enter your school name

2. Click on your school name, and under Consent to Assess click the link 'these standards and groups of standards':

School
|
Schools Resources/Units

Can the unit standards stand alone? For example, can I offer 32053/32055 without offering 32051? I would have them working off set plan drawings instead

Yes, they can be used individually, or together and in any order.

School
|
Schools Resources/Units

What work do learners need to do for each of the Level 2 MaPS units?

Level 2 has a theory component and a practical assessment. For the practical assessment please read the first 1-4 pages of the Assessment Guide in each unit standard.

School
|
Schools Resources/Units

Do you have any new project ideas in the works?

We do not have new examples in the works at the moment, but we welcome ideas or you sharing current projects that we have not presented within the project exemplars.

School
|
Schools Resources/Units

Are we limited to the projects presented in the Teacher Guidebook?

No, your learners may complete any project, as long as it shows they meet the assessment criteria.

School
|
MaPS

What work do learners need to do for each of the Level 3 MaPS units?

For the practical assessment please read the first 1-4 pages of the Assessment Guide in each unit standard.

School
|
MaPS

Is there a training plan for Manufacturing Pathway Skills units?

Yes please see table below

School
|
MaPS

Are we limited to the projects presented in the Manufacturing Pathway Skills Teacher Guidebook?

No, your learners may complete any project, as long as it shows they meet the assessment criteria.

School
|
MaPS

Do you have any new project ideas in the works?

We do not have new examples in the works at the moment, but we welcome ideas or you sharing current projects that we have not presented within the project exemplars.

School
|
MaPS

Do we need to get projects pre-moderated if they are different from the Competenz project examples?

No, projects your students undertake in school are the evidence and learning they develop and use towards the assessment of the standards. A project is deemed acceptable so long as the project meets the learning intentions of the unit standard.

School
|
MaPS

With the introduction of the engineering unit standards for schools (Manufacturing Pathway Skills), will the industry unit standards still available for us to use?

Yes, please ensure you check the unit standard expiry date and version. You can do this via NZQA.

Please note: It is preferred that schools use the new unit standards. They have been created specifically for use in schools. Industry and teacher input, and collaboration was sought regarding skills and knowledge required for school leavers.

School
|
MaPS

What work do learners need to do for each of the Level 2 MaPS units?

Level 2 has a theory component and a practical assessment. For the practical assessment please read the first 1-4 pages of the Assessment Guide in each unit standard.

School
|
MaPS

Can the unit standards stand alone? For example, can I offer 32053/32055 without offering 32051? I would have them working off set plan drawings instead

Yes, they can be used individually, or together and in any order.

School
|
MaPS

How do I find exemplars for the new MaPS units?

  1. Follow the link competenz.org.nz/schools/resources/resources/engineering
  2. Scroll down to the level or specific unit you are wanting the exemplar for and click “Project Exemplar”.
  1. Then select the download for the desired exemplar

Fees Free
|
After 2025

How do employers make a claim for fees paid under final-year Fees Free?

Applications for reimbursement of training fees can only be submitted by learners, via the IRD, once they have completed an eligible qualification and a certificate has been issued. The TEC haven't confirmed the reimbursement process yet, but we expect that they will request evidence of fee payment.

  • The IRD will only reimburse learners directly – employers cannot claim the entitlement. We recommend that employers and learners agree on how fees will be paid before enrolling to enable a smooth reimbursement process
  • Competenz no longer administers the Fees Free fund. Any queries about the fund should be directed to the TEC (Tertiary Education Commission).

Fees Free
|
After 2025

How will the final-year Fees Free impact learners who used first-year Fees Free?

Learners who used first-year Fees Free funding will not be eligible for final-year Fees Free, even if they did not use the full amount they were entitled to.

Fees Free
|
After 2025

What are the key changes under the new final-year Fees Free policy?

The final-year Fees Free policy has replaced the first-year Fees Free policy, as of 1 January 2025.

The final 24 months of work-based training costs may be reimbursed to the learner if they are eligible. Eligible learners will need to make the claim for reimbursement via IRD once they have completed their qualification.

Visit the Fees Free website for full details.

Fees Free
|
Before 2025

Stay Updated: The Latest on Fees Free

We'll do our best to keep these FAQs up to date.

For the latest information:

Learners can visit FeesFree.govt.nz for details on eligibility and entitlements.

Employers can find updates on the TEC website which is regularly refreshed with the latest information.

Fees Free
|
Before 2025

Employers: how to get reimbursed for fees you've paid

For employers and assessors, information and forms can be found here.

Fees Free
|
Before 2025

What do the first-year transition rules mean for learners and employers?

For learners continuing the same qualification:

If training started in 2024 or earlier and continues in the same qualification in 2025, your fees will be covered until the end of 2025 or until entitlement is exhausted.

For work-based programmes continuing beyond 2025:

Fees incurred after 31 December 2025 will not be covered, and learners must arrange payment.

Make sure your 2024 learners are checking their Fees Free eligibility sooner rather than later, to ensure eligible learners don’t miss out on their first-year entitlement in 2024. For more information click here.

Fees Free
|
Before 2025

Learners who started in 2024 or earlier - how to confirm eligibility?

Learners can check their eligibility using the NSN checker tool at FeesFree.govt.nz. By entering their NSN, study type, and intended study year, they'll receive one of four possible results:

  • Yes - They're eligible! No further action needed.
  • No - They're not eligible and will need to arranage alternative fee payments.
  • Maybe (Unknown): More information is needed. The learner should review the criteria and may need to complete a statutory declaration or ineligibility form.
  • Starter: They were eligible before and might still have remaining entitlement if continuing the same qualification.

Fees Free eligibility depends on factors like residency status, previous study, and work-based training criteria. For full details check the Fees Free website.

Fees Free
|
Before 2025

How do I check if my learner is eligible for Fees Free?

Check the learner and programme eligibility criteria for work-based learning.

Employer
|
Reimbursement

As a forestry Assessor how do I claim Fees Free reimbursements?

Download the Fees Free assessor spreadsheet template

For any questions about the Fees Free training reimbursement process, please email us.

Employer
|
Reimbursement

As an employer how do I claim Fees Free reimbursements?

Download the Fees Free employer claim guide and declaration

Download the Fees Free claim spreadsheet template

For any questions about the Fees Free training reimbursement process, please email us.

Employer
|
Reimbursement

What is covered in forestry reimbursements?

  • Training costs paid to an external trainer for Fees Free eligible learners enrolled in a training agreement with Competenz.
  • The training costs related to the achievement of unit standards required for the programme the specified learners are enrolled in.

Not sure if you are eligible to claim reimbursement? Use this form to find out.

Employer
|
Reimbursement

How do I claim Fees Free reimbursement, and where can I find the forms?

Employers can find information and claim forms here. Forestry employers and assessors can find their specific forms here. If you're unsure about your eligibility to claim reimbursement, use this form to check.

Download the Fees Free claim guide and declaration

Download the Fees Free claim spreadsheet template

For any questions about the Fees Free training reimbursement process, please email us.

Employer
|
Reimbursements

Am I eligible for a reimbursement?

You are eligible to claim reimbursement of your provider’s invoice for a Competenz learner directly from us if:

  • Your employee is enrolled in a Competenz training agreement and is eligible for Fees Free.
  • Your provider invoices you for the training and assessing of an eligible learner and you pay their invoice directly.
|

How long is the Apprenticeship Boost available for?

Apprenticeship Boost ended December 2024. Payments willcontinue for a maximum of 24 months per apprentice.

Employer
|
Apprenticeship boost

What is the Apprenticeship Boost?

Apprenticeship Boost provides support for employers to keep and take on new apprentices. It aims to help apprentices to earn and learn while training, so they become skilled practitioners in targeted occupations that are critical to New Zealand’s growth and sustainability.

The Apprenticeship Boost is a payment available through the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) to support employers of apprentices in their first year of training in particular qualifications. Employers can receive up to 12 months of support. Payment is currently $500 per month for eligible apprentices.

For more information visit  Apprenticeship Boost - Work and Income.

Fees Free
|

How will the final-year policy impact learners who used first-year Fees Free?

Learners who accessed first-year Fees Free will not be eligible for final-year Fees Free. The last opportunity to report adjustments for first-year Fees Free is during the 2025 wash-up process in early 2026.

Fees Free
|

First-year transition rules: what employers and learners need to know

Fees Free for learners continuing in 2025: If you started training in 2024 or earlier and are continuing the same qualification in 2025, your fees will be covered until the end of 2025 or until your entitlement runs out.

For work-based programmes extending beyond 2025: Any fees incurred after 31 December 2025 won't be covered, so learners will need to arrange payment. Encourage your 2024 learners to check their Fees Free eligibility as soon as possible to make sure they don’t miss out on their first-year entitlement. Learn more here.

Fees Free
|

What are the key changes under the new final-year Fees Free policy?

The Government has announced that Fees Free for the first year of study or training will finish at the end of 2024. A final-year Fees Free policy will replace it, starting from 1 January 2025.

If you are a first-time tertiary learner in 2025, you may be able to get Fees Free for your final year of study or training. If you are eligible, you will need to apply for your entitlement through IRD from 2026 onwards.

For more information about the transition from first-year Fees Free or the final-year Fees Free policy, visit FeesFree.govt.nz.

Fees Free
|

How do learners check their eligibility status?

Learners should use the NSN checker tool at FeesFree.govt.nz. After entering their NSN, study type, and intended study year, the tool will return one of four statuses:

  • Yes: Eligible and nothing further is needed.
  • No: Not eligible; alternative fee payment arrangements are required.
  • Maybe (Unknown): TEC needs more information; the learner should check the criteria and may need to complete a statutory declaration.
  • Starter: Previously eligible and may still have remaining entitlement if continuing the same qualification.

Fees Free
|

Where can I find the latest Fees Free updates?

We will endeavour to keep the FAQs on this webpage as current as possible. The Fees Free website is a good resource for learners. The TEC website is continuously updated and is a good resource for employers.

Fees Free
|

I’m taking on a new learner. How do I check their Fees Free eligibility in 2025?

Eligibility depends on specific residency, prior study, and training criteria for work-based learning. Check the full eligibility criteria on the Fees Free website. Learners can use their NSN with the TEC’s tool to check eligibility.

Fees Free
|

How can I find out if my current learner is eligible for Fees Free?

Check the learner and programme eligibility criteria for work-based learning.

‍The Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) also has a tool available for learners to check their eligibility using their NSN.

We will send you correspondence regarding an update on your learner’s eligibility when it is available. If you believe the information we have regarding your learner’s eligibility is incorrect contact TEC.

School
|
Careers Events

Our school/organisation is interested in having someone from Competenz represented at a careers event. Who do I contact about that?

Our schools’ team are always keen to be involved in as many opportunities as possible. We love introducing learners to new ideas and vocational pathways. Email us on schools@competenz.org.nz to see if we have availability.

School
|
Projects

Do we need to get projects pre-moderated if they are different from the Competenz project examples?

No, projects your students undertake in school are the evidence and learning they develop and use towards the assessment of the standards. A project is deemed acceptable so long as the project meets the learning intentions of the unit standard.

School
|
Consent to Assess

How does my school apply for Consent to Assess (CTA)?

Workforce Development Councils (WCD) manage the Consent to Assess process. 
Hanga-Ara-Rau is the WDC for Manufacturing, Engineering and Logistics.

If you have a query about national external moderation, consent to assess, consent and moderation requirements (CMR), reach out to moderation@hangaarorau.nz

School
|
Schools Resources/Units

Are we limited to the projects presented in the Manufacturing Pathway Skills Teacher Guidebook?

No, your learners may complete any project, as long as it shows they meet the assessment criteria.

School
|
Projects

Are we limited to the projects presented in the Teacher Guidebook?

No, your learners may complete any project, as long as it shows they meet the assessment criteria.

School
|
Projects

Do you have any new project ideas in the works?

We do not have new examples in the works at the moment, but we welcome ideas or you sharing current projects that we have not presented within the project exemplars.

School
|
Schools Resources/Units

With the introduction of the engineering unit standards for schools (Manufacturing Pathway Skills), will the industry unit standards still available for us to use?

Yes, please ensure you check the unit standard expiry date and version. You can do this via NZQA.

Please note: It is preferred that schools use the new unit standards. They have been created specifically for use in schools. Industry and teacher input, and collaboration was sought regarding skills and knowledge required for school leavers.

School
|
Schools Resources/Units

How do I find apparel units?

Follow the link https://www.competenz.org.nz/resources/categories/apparel

Schools have base scope to Level 2, but you will need to check that you have CTA for Level 3.

School
|
Projects

Can the unit standards stand alone? For example, can I offer 32053/32055 without offering 32051? I would have them working off set plan drawings instead

Yes, they can be used individually, or together and in any order.

School
|
Schools Resources/Units

How do I find exemplars for the new MaPS units?

  1. Follow the link competenz.org.nz/schools/resources/resources/engineering
  2. Scroll down to the level or specific unit you are wanting the exemplar for and click “Project Exemplar”.
  1. Then select the download for the desired exemplar

School
|
Schools Resources/Units

Where are the industry units (formerly known as Tools4Work)?

School
|
Consent to Assess

How do I find if my school has current consent to assess (CTA)?

1. Go to https://www.nzqa.govt.nz/framework/explore/index.do and enter your school name

2. Click on your school name, and under Consent to Assess click the link 'these standards and groups of standards':

School
|
Schools Resources/Units

How do I login or register for the Competenz Schools’ Resources?

To register, visit the login page and enter your details to create an account.  

Please note we have updated our website in July 2025 and you will need to re-register if you have logged in previously. Once this is done simply log in using your credentials.

School
|
Gateway

What Gateway programmes does Competenz offer?

Our Gateway programme is currently being reviewed in preparation for successful programmes in the future. However, we are currently offering work experience placements, please contact schools@competenz.org.nz to discuss. Gateway is not available for 2025.

Employer
|
I don’t have a learner with Competenz

How much does an apprenticeship or traineeship cost?

Pricing varies depending on your industry and the apprenticeship/traineeship model selected.

Call our Customer Services Team on 0800 526 1800 or email support@competenz.org.nz and we can arrange for someone to visit your workplace to discuss your training needs.

Employer
|
I don’t have a learner with Competenz

I want to put my employee through an apprenticeship or traineeship. What do I need to do?

The first step is to call our Customer Services Team on 0800 526 1800 or email support@competenz.org.nz. We will arrange for someone to visit your workplace to discuss your training needs.

Employer
|
I don’t have a learner with Competenz

Can you help me find an apprentice/trainee?

Competenz offers a free digital self-service job board makes it easy to create and post your job advert with our step-by-step job ad builder, helping you reach the right candidates.

  • Receive applications: When a candidate applies and grants permission, you will automatically be sent their application and CV.
  • Interview  process: If you chose to take them forward to interview you'll have the option to provide feedback to help us maintain candidate quality.
  • Onboarding  and training: Once you’ve found the right person, we’ll support you in setting up a training plan to ensure your learner succeeds and meets your business goals.
  • Browse available candidates: Need someone now? Check our Candidates page for profiles of learners actively seeking employment.
Employer
|
I have a learner with Competenz

Am I up-to-date with my invoices?

All customers who have a balance on their account with Competenz at the end of the month will receive a statement detailing any unpaid invoices.

Alternatively, please call our Customer Services Team on 0800 526 1800 and select option 1 for accounts receivable and payable, and one of our Finance team will be happy to help you.

Employer
|
I have a learner with Competenz

How do I pay my invoice?

Competenz prefers payment by Direct Credit deposit to our bank account.

When making payment it is important that you include your Competenz Account Number as a reference – this is an eight character number beginning with ‘CC’ and can be found on your invoice or statement.

Our bank account number is also shown on our invoices and statements.

We are now offering the option of quarterly payments of annual fees (for Elev8 and Canvas). Please contact ar@competenz.org.nz for more information.

Employer
|
I have a learner with Competenz

Has my learner passed their assessment?

The best way to view the progress of your learner(s) is through Competenz Central.

Competenz Central allows you to see the training plan details of your learner(s) through the tile called eServices.

Click into eServices:

Competenz Central eServices

Click on the name of the learner you want more information on:


Click on Training Plan Detail, then click the Unit Standards drop down and change the selection to Show All.

If a unit standard is complete then a date will show in the Date Assessed column.

Please be aware that it can take between 1 – 3 months for unit standard results to be entered into our database.

See the Competenz Central help section for more information about how to access Competenz Central.

Employer
|
I have a learner with Competenz

How much should I pay my learner?

The best way to view the progress of your learner(s) is through Competenz Central.

Competenz Central allows you to see the training plan details of your learner(s) through the tile called eServices.

Click into eServices:

Competenz Central eServices

Click on the name of the learner you want more information on:


Click on Training Plan Detail, then click the Unit Standards drop down and change the selection to Show All.

If a unit standard is complete then a date will show in the Date Assessed column.

Please be aware that it can take between 1 – 3 months for unit standard results to be entered into our database.

See the Competenz Central help section for more information about how to access Competenz Central.

Employer
|
Competenz Central

My login does not work for Competenz Central

Are you logging in on the correct page?

  • Make sure you are logging in to Competenz Central by clicking the link ‘Login Competenz Central’ in the top right-hand corner of this website.

Have you successfully logged in before?

  • To login to Competenz Central you need to set up an account. If you have not done this then you will need to request a login for Competenz Central.

Can't remember your username/email?

  • If you cannot remember your username/email that you signed up to Competenz Central with, then please call our Customer Services Team on 0800 526 1800 or email support@competenz.org.nz. We can reset your username.
  • If you signed up to Competenz Central using your Google account, then we cannot reset your username/email. What we can do, is unregister your Competenz Central account and resend you a welcome email so that you can recreate your account without using Google.

Can’t remember your password?

  • Click the ‘Don’t remember your password?’ link on the Competenz Central login page and make sure you enter the correct email address that you used to set up your account.
  • If you have signed up to Competenz Central using your Google account, then we cannot reset your password. What we can do, is unregister your Competenz Central account and resend you a welcome email so that you can recreate your account without using Google.

Still can’t login?

Employer
|
Competenz Central

How do I set up my account for Competenz Central?

Receive the welcome email or text message

If you have requested a login for Competenz Central, or your Competenz contact has advised that a login is on its way, then expect a welcome email like this:

Competenz Central welcome email

If you cannot find the email, please check your junk mail folder.

Sometimes email filters prevent Competenz emails from being received. If this is the case, our Customer Services Team can send you a text message instead of an email.

Call our Customer Services Team on 0800 526 1800 or email support@competenz.org.nz and let us know your name, date of birth, company/employer, and your cell phone number. We will then send you a welcome text message like the below:

Competenz Central welcome text message

Enter your date of birth

Once you click the link sent to you in the email or text message you will then need to enter your date of birth. This helps us check we’ve sent the link to the correct person.

Make sure you enter your date of birth in this format: dd/mm/yyyy

For example:

Competenz Central date of birth

If your date of birth does not match with the information held in our database, you will need to contact our Customer Services Team.

Create your login details

Once you have entered your date of birth, you can then create your login by entering an email address for your username and a password.

Your password must be at least eight characters long, and contain an uppercase, lowercase and number.

Employer
|
Competenz Central

How can I request a login for Competenz Central?

Please send an email to your training advisor or account manager for support.

If you are an assessor, please specify which company or companies you assess at/for so we can make sure we give you visibility of these companies.

We will need to verify your access with your Competenz contact first, so please be aware that your request may take some time.

Jobseeker
|
Becoming a learner

I’m an international student - can I do an apprenticeship or traineeship?

If you are not a New Zealand citizen, you need a valid visa or work permit. Non domestic students have fees and are not funded.

Your visa or work permit must cover the time it will take to complete your qualification.

For example, if you want to enrol in a qualification that will take six months to complete, then you must have a visa or work permit that is valid for at least six months from the day you start your qualification.

You must also have a job in an industry that we work with.

Either:

  • You are employed in New Zealand (for apprenticeships, you must be employed in the industry you wish to complete your apprenticeship in) OR
  • You are a self-employed contractor working in New Zealand under an arrangement with an organisation in the nature of employment OR
  • For traineeships only - you are volunteering in New Zealand under an  arrangement with an organisation in the nature of employment, where the Tertiary Education Commission has granted permission for you to access funded training as a volunteer.
Jobseeker
|
Becoming a learner

How much does an apprenticeship/traineeship cost?

Generally, employers pay the cost of an apprenticeship or traineeship.

To find out how much an apprenticeship or traineeship will cost, please get your employer to call our Customer Services Team on 0800 526 1800 or email support@competenz.org.nz and we can arrange for someone to visit your workplace to discuss your training needs.

Jobseeker
|
Becoming a learner

Do I need a visa or work permit?

If you are not a New Zealand citizen then you need a valid visa or work permit.

Your visa or work permit must cover the time it will take to complete your qualification.

For example, if you want to enrol in a qualification that will take six months to complete, then you must have a visa or work permit that is valid for at least six months from the day you start your qualification.

Jobseeker
|
Becoming a learner

How old do I need to be?

You must be 16 years of age or older to enrol into any Competenz qualifications, unless you have an early leaving exemption certificate from the Ministry of Education.

Jobseeker
|
Becoming a learner

How long is an apprenticeship/traineeship?

Apprenticeships are three to four years long.

Traineeships can be anywhere between six and 18 months long.

Jobseeker
|
Becoming a learner

I have a job, what do I do next?

You're on the right track to becoming an apprentice or trainee with Competenz!

The first thing to do is double-check that you meet the following criteria:

  • You are 16 years of age or over (unless you have an early leaving exemption certificate from the Ministry of Education)
  • You are employed in New Zealand OR
  • You are a self-employed contractor working in New Zealand under an arrangement with an organisation in the nature of employment OR
  • For traineeships only, you are volunteering in New Zealand under an arrangement with an organisation in the nature of employment, where the Tertiary Education Commission has granted permission for you to access funded training as a volunteer
  • You have a valid form of identity documentation OR
  • If you are a non-New Zealand citizen you must have a legal right to reside and work in New Zealand for the anticipated duration of your traineeship. You will need a visa or work permit that confirms this. Please note Non domestic students have fees and are not funded.

If this sounds like you, then the next step is to talk to your employer. Tell them about the training you want to do. They need to be onboard. Being a Competenz learner is a three-way agreement between us (Competenz), you (the learner) and your employer.

Then call our Customer Services Team on 0800 526 1800 or email support@competenz.org.nz and we can arrange for someone to visit your workplace to discuss your training needs.

Jobseeker
|
Becoming a learner

Do I need to be employed to be an apprentice/trainee?

To do an apprenticeship or traineeship with Competenz, you need to have a job in an industry that we work with.

Either:

  • You are employed in New Zealand (for apprenticeships, you must be employed in the industry you wish to complete your apprenticeship in) OR
  • You are a self-employed contractor working in New Zealand under an arrangement with an organisation in the nature of employment OR
  • For traineeships only - you are volunteering in New Zealand under an arrangement with an organisation in the nature of employment, where the Tertiary Education Commission has granted permission for you to access funded training as a volunteer.
Jobseeker
|
Becoming a learner

What experience do I need to do an apprenticeship/traineeship?

No experience is needed to do an apprenticeship or traineeship. You just need to have a job in an industry that we work with, and have a positive attitude!

Jobseeker
|
Becoming a learner

Can I be a trainee?

To become a trainee, in simple terms you need to; be 16 or older and be legally allowed to work in New Zealand.

Here are some more details:

  • You are 16 years of age or over (unless you have an early leaving exemption certificate from the Ministry of Education)
  • You are employed in New Zealand OR
  • You are a self-employed contractor working in New Zealand under an arrangement with an organisation in the nature of employment OR
  • You are volunteering in New Zealand under an arrangement with an organisation in the nature of employment, where the Tertiary Education Commission has granted permission for you to access funded training as a volunteer
  • You have a valid form of identity documentation OR
  • If you are a non-New Zealand citizen you must have a legal right to reside and work in New Zealand for the anticipated duration of your traineeship. You will need a visa or work permit that confirms this.
Jobseeker
|
Becoming a learner

Can I be an apprentice?

To become an apprentice you must be 16 or older, legally allowed to work in New Zealand, and have a job in the industry your apprenticeship is in.

Here are some more details:

  • You are 16 years of age or over (unless you have an early leaving exemption certificate from the Ministry of Education)
  • You are employed in the industry you wish to complete your apprenticeship in OR
  • You are a self-employed contractor working in New Zealand under an arrangement with an organisation in the nature of employment
  • You have a valid form of identity documentation OR
  • If you are a non-New Zealand citizen you must have a legal right to reside and work in New Zealand for the anticipated duration of your apprenticeship. You will need a visa or work permit that confirms this.
Jobseeker
|
Becoming a learner

What is an apprenticeship/traineeship?

Apprenticeship

An apprenticeship is a pathway to a lifelong career. You learn on-the-job in your workplace, get paid and become qualified for your chosen trade.

Apprenticeships are three to four years long.

Watch the video below to learn more about apprenticeships.

Traineeship

Traineeships are shorter than apprenticeships – typically 6-18 months – and range from entry level to advanced. They are formal arrangements between an employer, learner and Competenz. Traineeships lead to a nationally recognised New Zealand qualification.

Jobseeker
|
About Competenz

I want to do automotive engineering. Who do I contact?

Competenz does not offer automotive engineering qualifications. If you are interested in training to be an automotive engineer, please contact MITO: www.mito.org.nz

Jobseeker
|
About Competenz

Where is your campus?

Competenz does not have a campus - all learning for our qualifications is done on-the-job or with a training provider like a polytechnic.

We have 13 offices nationwide which you can view on our Contact us page.

Jobseeker
|
About Competenz

What does Competenz do?

Competenz partners with employers, apprentices, schools, training providers and assessors across the country to help Kiwis build skills, careers and businesses. We work with more than 3,500 companies and 26,000 learners in 36 industries around New Zealand each year. Most learning takes place on-the-job. Watch the video below to learn more:

Assessor
|
Competenz Central for Assessors

How do I view my active learners?

Assessor
|
Competenz Central Assessors

How do I navigate Competenz Central - confirming an assessment?

Assessor
|
Competenz Central for Assessors

How do I navigate Competenz Central - selecting an assessment?

Assessor
|
Competenz Central for Assessors

How do I navigate Competenz Central - assessment entry?

Assessor
|
Competenz Central for Assessors

How do I print my buyer created invoices?

Learner
|
Competenz Ambassadors

How can I become a Competenz ambassador?

Ambassadors are nominated by Competenz account managers and training advisors. Talk to your Competenz contact if you think you would make a great ambassador.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.