Youth Aid Officer course
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
Core skills this course teaches
Work independently and accountably as a Youth Aid Officer
Demonstrate autonomy and accountability in achieving outcomes for children and young people within the justice system.
Establish and maintain relationships with youth and communities
Build and sustain working relationships with children, young people, local communities, and key stakeholders.
Apply knowledge of relevant legislation and best practice
What You're Signing Up For
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.
Course Content
- Safe and Ethical Practitioner (Level 6, 15 credits)
- Applied Social Issues and Social Policy (Level 7, 15 credits)
- Evidence-based practice and knowledge of legislation
- Youth issues, youth aid models, and alternative action
- Restorative justice approaches
- Human development and safety/risk management
- Partnership with tangata whenua and local networks
- Recognising, responding to, and reporting abuse and suicide risk factors
- Police values, mission, and practice frameworks
- Te Tiriti o Waitangi responsibilities in the justice context
What you need to know first
Referral from NZ Police required
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Justice
Policing
Youth Work
Community Services
Future employment opportunities might be
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.