Academy Certificate in Introductory Conservation (Te Kura Tapere)
Environment
A course by
UCOL
A Level 3 certificate helping learners develop foundational conservation knowledge and practical skills in ecological understanding and kaitiakitanga.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Available in 2 locations
It will take a total of 35 weeks
This course requires 6 hours per week
Core skills this course teaches
Knowledge of native flora and fauna ecology
Demonstrate basic ecological understanding of plant and animal species in a specified park area to support conservation activities.
Practical conservation skills
Assist and lead outdoor conservation activities including trapping pest animals and practicing kaitiakitanga (guardianship) of native species.
Workplace and safety competence
Apply customer service techniques and operate safely within a natural environment context (te ao tūroa).
What You're Signing Up For
The UCOL Academy Certificate in Introductory Conservation (Te Kura Tapere) programme helps learners grow their knowledge about nature and provides foundational conservation skills. Delivered primarily at Pūkaha National Wildlife Centre, it includes practical experience in kaitiakitanga of flora and fauna, pest animal control, and safe operations in te ao tūroa (natural world). This programme is aimed at secondary school learners (Years 11-13) and offers 30 NCEA credits at Levels 2 and 3. It prepares students for further study and employment in conservation-related roles.
Course Content
- Unit Standard 20427 (Level 2): Basic ecological understanding of plant species
- Unit Standard 20668 (Level 2): Basic ecological understanding of animal species
- Unit Standard 376 (Level 3): Customer service techniques in workplace
- Unit Standard 31535 (Level 3): Assisting and leading outdoor activities
- Unit Standard 29336 (Level 3): Understanding rural pest animal operations - purpose and impacts
- Unit Standard 29338 (Level 3): Demonstrate understanding of rural pest animal operations
- Unit Standard 6143 (Level 3): Carrying out local kaitiakitanga activities with direction
What you need to know first
Secondary school learner Year 11-13
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Conservation
Environmental Management
Wildlife Management
Future employment opportunities might be
Pest Management
Wildlife Park Assistant
Conservation Work