Certificate in Outdoor and Adventure Education (Multi-skilled) (Level 4)
Learn how to lead others confidently in outdoor pursuits.
Taught by some of the most qualified educators and instructors in the country, this programme will give you skills across a range of outdoor activities and enable you to lead others in some of those activities, under supervision in low-risk outdoor environments. It covers adventure leadership, performance and health, kaitiakitanga and environmental education, sea kayaking, rock climbing, bush walking and leadership in mountain biking and bush walking.
You'll learn about equipment, weather, local conditions, logistics and safety management, leadership theories, sustainability, performance, cultural and environmental respect. Work-integrated learning plays a big part, with interactive activities simulating real-world work situations as much as possible.
In addition to gaining this qualification, you'll also acquire the New Zealand Outdoor Instructors Association Bush Leader award as part of your studies. Part-time up to 3 years.
Please note: to participate in this programme and complete it successfully, it’s important that you’re able to swim at least 50m, ride a bike and carry a full overnight hiking pack on multi-day trips.
Fees for 2024
Fees for 2025
NCEA Level 1 (80 credits at Level 1, including 10 Literacy credits and 10 Numeracy credits)
If you have undertaken examinations other than NCEA (e.g. International Baccalaureate, Cambridge Examination), Ara will assess your qualification for academic entry equivalency.
In addition you need to:
Complete sections 2 and 3 of the New Zealand Police Vetting Service Request and Consent Form. Please return the completed form to Ara.
Hold a current two-day Comprehensive First Aid Certificate. First Aid training can be completed through any authorised provider.
Still want to study but don't meet the Academic Requirements?
If you show that you have equivalent skills for tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, you may be able to gain alternative entry.
Note: The number of courses you have to complete for this qualification may be reduced where you have relevant credits from previous study, or evidence of similar learning or experience in the workplace.
What if English is not my first Language?
If English is not your first language, we want to make sure that you will be successful in your chosen programme of study.
- Please provide a result from a test or qualification on the acceptable alternatives English Proficiency Outcomes Chart.
- If you are a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident, complete an Admission and Enrolment form and Ara will contact you regarding a free assessment.
- If you are not a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent resident, book an IELTS or other test through the Ara Examination Centre or in your home country.
- IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form and are valid for two years from the date of the test.
- What if I have achieved NCEA Level 3 University Entrance?
- You do not need to provide additional evidence of English Language skills.
Overall IELTS 5.5 Academic
- 5.0 Listening
- 5.0 Reading
- 5.0 Writing
- 5.0 Speaking
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 moreCareer opportunities
As tourism grows, employment opportunities are strong, particularly for those with national recognised qualifications. Upon completion of this qualification your options include employment at entry level as an instructor or guide.
Study pathways
Ara offers a range of study options to follow this qualification. They include the New Zealand Diploma in Outdoor and Adventure Education (Multi-skilled) Level 5 (scheduled to be available from 2020) and the Bachelor of Sustainability and Outdoor Education.
New Zealand Certificate in Outdoor and Adventure Education (Multi-skilled) (Level 4)
Learn how to lead others confidently in outdoor pursuits.
| Information | |
|---|---|
| Type | Certificate |
| Code | NZ3765 |
| Next Starts | February 2025 |
| Credits | 120 |
| Level | 4 |
| May be eligible for Studylink? | Yes |
| Available Part time | Yes |
| May be eligible for Fees Free? | Yes |
| Reference | NZ3765-STRU |
Fees for 2024
Fees for 2025
Placements or workplace assignments are an integral part of this programme. You don’t need to supply evidence of your Covid vaccination status to apply for or to study this programme but please be aware that some workplaces may require evidence from you that you are fully vaccinated for Covid before allowing you to complete work at their organisation. The number of organisations at which your placement or workplace assignment can be completed may be impacted, depending on your vaccination status.
With an internationally-recognised Ara qualification, the world is your oyster. Our graduates can be found working and making a difference across the globe…
MoreAdditional Entry Requirements
In addition you need to:
Complete sections 2 and 3 of the New Zealand Police Vetting Service Request and Consent Form. Please return the completed form to Ara.
Hold a current two-day Comprehensive First Aid Certificate. First Aid training can be completed through any authorised provider.
See overview for moreCredit Recognition
If you have prior relevant experience or previous related study credits, you may be eligible for credit recognition towards this qualification.
Find out moreDocuments
- Admission & Enrolment Form PDF, 426 KB
- International Application Form PDF, 363 KB
Area of Interest
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