Study and training, Ako

Even if you’ve got a job, more study or training can bring exciting challenges and better pay. Here are some ideas about how to move forward if you like the job you have now, or if you’re looking for a complete change.

If you’re looking for new skills or a confidence boost, you might find help right around the corner. Adult and Community Education (ACE) is a friendly way to learn in your own community. Most courses are short and easy to fit into your life.

Want to get qualifications without changing your whole life? Distance and online learning might be right for you. You can do full programmes, or bite-sized pieces. There are hundreds of different options for you to choose from.

If you’re a student who is disabled, neurodivergent or needs extra learning support for any reason, there are plenty of options to help you succeed in your tertiary education goals. A wide range of support is usually available for your study or training and you can use this right through your programme or course.

Do you struggle with reading, writing or maths? You’re not alone – many people in school and work find these things hard as well. Getting better at these literacy and numeracy skills makes it easier to learn anything you want to, and can take you closer to getting into your dream mahi.

Found a scholarship you might qualify for? Ka pai! Now give yourself the best chance of success by following these steps to apply.

If your whakapapa is Māori, find out what scholarships you could apply for and put yourself forward – you could get hundreds or even thousands of dollars towards tertiary study costs.

If you're of Pacific Island descent, find out what scholarships you could apply for and put yourself forward – you could get hundreds or even thousands of dollars towards tertiary study costs.

If you’ve got work skills or study and training credits, they could count towards a qualification. This could bring your career goals closer and save you repeating work you’ve already done.

Getting a micro-credential shows employers you have special skills or knowledge.

Becoming an apprentice sets you up to go further in your career as a qualified trade professional.

Thinking about doing tertiary education? You may be eligible for Fees Free.

University study develops thinking and other skills you can use for your whole career, no matter what direction you take.

Polytechnics provide vocational education and training across Aotearoa – the kind of learning that takes you out of the classroom and gives you skills for the world of mahi.

Wānanga learning is grounded in kaupapa Māori (ideology) and āhuatanga Māori (tradition). You can study for qualifications at every level in a mātauranga Māori (knowledge) environment that is informed by tikanga Māori (customs).

Aotearoa has more than 400 private training establishments – often called PTEs. They offer all sorts of tertiary study and training, including industry training, professional qualifications, degrees and postgraduate study.