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Health Care Assistant (HCA)

Earn and Learn Programme

Join us as a Health Care Assistant, and work in our hospitals, while studying towards a Level 3 qualification in Health and Wellbeing.

Health Care Assistants work across clinics, wards, emergency departments and operating rooms. They have a wide-ranging role, from supporting patients with comfort and concerns to ensuring the environment is ready to provide the best care to our patients.

How does it work?

  • You’ll be paid throughout the programme and will be fully supported with training and support.
  • You’ll complete 16 modules in the classroom and gain real-life experience in our hospitals. 
  • You’ll be buddied up with an experienced Health Care Assistant and have the full support of the Charge Nurse.
  • When you’ve successfully completed the programme (which takes nine months on average to complete), you’ll be a fully qualified HCA with a guaranteed job with us.
  • You’ll also be part of a cohort of new Health Care Assistants and you’ll all support each other. 
  • The level 3 certificate can be a springboard to other careers in health such as nursing, phlebotomy or midwifery.

Eligibility

To apply for the programme, you will need to be at least 18 years old and have completed a minimum of three years of secondary school or equivalent. You do not need to hold any qualifications in the healthcare field to join the programme. You will also need to be a New Zealand Citizen, or hold permanent residency to be eligible.

Applying

Keep an eye on our job listings() throughout the year, or email HCAearnandlearn@adhb.govt.nz for more information.