Certificate in Supervision (Human Sciences) (Level 5)

Since the inception of the Health Practitioners Competency Assurance (HPCA) Act (2003), there has been a growing need for qualified and experienced professionals and clinical supervisors within the helping professions. The level 5 Certificate in Supervision (Human Services) is an introductory supervision qualification for experienced practitioners working in social, health and human services who want to gain a recognised qualification in the field and develop their professional and clinical supervisory skills.

The programme uses the principles and practices of adult learning. Classes are culturally inclusive and participants are expected to be actively involved as they practice and develop their supervisory knowledge and skills. 

Programme Structure (all compulsory courses)

This programme comprises of 40 compulsory credits

CS5000 Theoretical Approaches to Supervision 20 Credits
CS5001 The Practice of Supervision 20 credits

At the completion of the programme, participants will be able to:

• Use supervisory skills that facilitate competence and reflective practice in supervisees
• Discuss their theoretical approach to supervision
• Use a model of supervision to structure a supervision session
• Identify and address potential safety and ethical issues within a supervisory session
• Use ethical principles to guide supervisory practice
• Use contracts to guide supervisory practice
• Demonstrate the skills of a reflective practitioner
• Record and document supervisory sessions

Programme delivery
The programme consists of two one-week block courses with a 7-12 week gap in between to enable practice and reflection. Courses are offered at our Wellington, Auckland and Christchurch Campuses.

Courses may be offered at other venues where there are 12 or more participants.

Entry requirements
42 credits at NCEA level 3, including a minimum of 14 credits in each of two subjects (at level 3) or an equivalent qualification. Entry may also be granted to individuals who demonstrate a reasonable likelihood of success.

Applicants are also required to have a minimum of two years full-time employment (or equivalent) in a relevant human services field and have a minimum of 20 hours experience of being supervised.

For applicants who have English as a second language, a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 or equivalent is required.