Justice & Policing
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
This specialised short course equips New Zealand Police Youth Aid Officers in training with the knowledge, skills, and competencies to work effectively with children and young people, supporting their development within the justice system.
Blended study
This is a mix of online learning & face-to-face sessions
Online
It will take a total of 2 years
This course requires 2 hours per week

Demonstrate autonomy and accountability in achieving outcomes for children and young people within the justice system.

Build and sustain working relationships with children, young people, local communities, and key stakeholders.

The Youth Aid Officer course is a two-year, part-time programme intended for NZ Police Youth Aid Officers in training. Through two papers and complementary Police induction and work-based learning, participants will develop advanced skills in youth justice, ethical practice, restorative justice, and working with communities. Graduates will have the ability to build strong working relationships with young people, demonstrate leadership, integrate theoretical and practice knowledge, and manage youth aid casework with autonomy and accountability.
What you need to know first
Referral from NZ Police required

Justice
Policing
Youth Work
Community Services

Youth Aid Officer within NZ Police
Specialist youth justice roles

Otago Polytechnic is known for high quality, hands on learning that leads to strong outcomes. With excellent student satisfaction, high graduate employment rates, and a commitment to sustainability, it’s a place where practical skills meet purpose. Their award winning programmes span design, fashion, creative arts, trades, health, and business, giving you real experience and real confidence for whatever comes next.
Justice & Policing
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
This specialised short course equips New Zealand Police Youth Aid Officers in training with the knowledge, skills, and competencies to work effectively with children and young people, supporting their development within the justice system.
Blended study
This is a mix of online learning & face-to-face sessions
Online
It will take a total of 2 years
This course requires 2 hours per week

Demonstrate autonomy and accountability in achieving outcomes for children and young people within the justice system.

Build and sustain working relationships with children, young people, local communities, and key stakeholders.

The Youth Aid Officer course is a two-year, part-time programme intended for NZ Police Youth Aid Officers in training. Through two papers and complementary Police induction and work-based learning, participants will develop advanced skills in youth justice, ethical practice, restorative justice, and working with communities. Graduates will have the ability to build strong working relationships with young people, demonstrate leadership, integrate theoretical and practice knowledge, and manage youth aid casework with autonomy and accountability.
What you need to know first
Referral from NZ Police required

Justice
Policing
Youth Work
Community Services

Youth Aid Officer within NZ Police
Specialist youth justice roles

Otago Polytechnic is known for high quality, hands on learning that leads to strong outcomes. With excellent student satisfaction, high graduate employment rates, and a commitment to sustainability, it’s a place where practical skills meet purpose. Their award winning programmes span design, fashion, creative arts, trades, health, and business, giving you real experience and real confidence for whatever comes next.
Use evidence and current legislation, youth aid models, and restorative justice principles to guide practice.
Applicants must be in training or serving as NZ Police Officers
Community policing roles
Use evidence and current legislation, youth aid models, and restorative justice principles to guide practice.
Applicants must be in training or serving as NZ Police Officers
Community policing roles