Other Qualifications
BCITO offer a range of alternative specialist qualifications that span management, architectural, survey and maintenance skills.
National Certificate in Construction (Leading Hand) (Level 4)
This National Certificate is designed to give you the skills and knowledge required by the industry of a capable leading hand. It’s ideal if you are already working as a construction leading hand, or wish to move into the role.
What will I learn?
You’ll develop skills and knowledge around explaining and implementing site safety plans, communicating orally and in writing as related to a building site, and using leadership and conflict resolution skills on a construction site. You’ll be able to demonstrate knowledge of drawings and specifications, preparing order lists, and weatherproofing.
You will also be able to choose to develop skills which meet the requirements of your workplace, including time management, on-site administration, building regulations, and supervision of installation of exterior building finishes.
How long will it take?
This National Certificate is offered by a range of Polytechnics, on a part-time basis and will take approximately one year to complete.
National Certificate in Construction (Supervisor) (Level 5)
This qualification is designed to give you the skills and knowledge required by the industry of a capable construction supervisor. It’s ideal if you are already working as a construction supervisor, or wish to move into the role.
What will I learn?
You’ll learn supervisory skills including on-site administration and supervision, knowledge of building enactments, preparation of construction programmes, time management, knowledge and implementation of site safety plans, communication skills as related to building sites, knowledge of drawings and specifications, and preparation of order lists.
You’ll also develop technical skills, including knowledge of excavations, construction methods, weatherproofing, exterior cladding, subcontractor supervision, and principles of building design.
How long will it take?
This National Certificate is offered by a range of Polytechnics, on a part-time basis and will take approximately one year to complete. Note however that the Level 4 qualification (above) is a prerequisite to this Level 5 qualification.
National Diploma in Construction Management (Level 6)
This qualification will give you the skills and knowledge required by the industry’s construction managers.
What will I learn?
You’ll learn how to identify construction site procedures, and the processes and principles of site management. The Diploma will equip you to develop health and safety plans, quality assurance plans and construction methodologies for industry projects. You’ll also develop your communication and writing skills, which will improve your interactions with internal and external clients.
How long will it take?
A range of New Zealand Polytechnics offer this Diploma, which generally takes two years to complete.
National Diploma in Architectural Technology (Level 6)
This Diploma is theory based and is intended to provide you with the skills and knowledge required of a capable technician by the industry.
What will I learn?
As well as skills applicable within the wider construction industry, you’ll cover specialist topics including: establishing a design brief, presenting preliminary designs, developing building concepts and preparing working drawings.
How long will it take?
A range of New Zealand Polytechnics offer this Diploma, which generally takes two years of full-time study to complete.
National Diploma in Quantity Surveying (Level 6)
This qualification is theory based and intended to teach you the skills and knowledge required of a capable technician quantity surveyor.
What will I learn?
The skills you’ll develop include: quantification, research and pricing of construction and associated work; assistance with preliminary estimating and feasibility studies, and financial administration of construction projects.
You’ll also develop communication skills to enhance your ability in dealing with clients.
How long will it take?
A range of New Zealand Polytechnics offer this Diploma, which generally takes two years of full-time study to complete.
