Program Overview

Trades Primer

Overview

Sample a range of trades and find your future career path. This free course is a great way to experience a variety of trades so you can make an informed decision about your next step.

What will I study

• Machining
• Fabrication
• Welding
• Automotive
• Autobody
• Carpentry
• Joinery
• Painting and decorating
• Electrical
• Plumbing
• Gas fitting and drain laying

You'll also gain foundation skills—including literacy, numeracy and communication—that will support you into further study or the workplace.

Pathway

By completing this programme you’ll gain Ara credits which you can use towards further tertiary study in New Zealand.

Details

Programme Information

• Type: Certificate
• Code: NZ2862
• Next Starts: February 2026
• Credits: 60
• Level: 2
• May be eligible for Studylink?: Yes
• May be eligible for Fees Free?: Yes
• Reference: NZ2862-PRIM

Career Opportunities

This programme can lead you into a range of careers such as engineering, automotive, joinery, furniture making, painting and decorating, carpentry or plasterboard, electrical, plumbing, gas fitting and drain laying.

Study Pathways

On completion of this programme, you can enrol in further study in your chosen trade, either alongside employment (apprenticeship), or full-time pre-trade study.

Academic Requirements

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.

Core Courses

• Active Learning - Rapu Pukekataka 2, Trades (FNAL246) - 15 credits

Essential Skills - Tuapapa, Trades (FNES241) - 15 credits

Project - Ara Matauraka, Trades (FNPR244) - 15 credits

Self - Rapu Ora, Trades (FNSF242) - 15 credits

Credit Recognition

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