Foundation Skills
Foundation Skills study options
Why study Foundation Skills at Cavalli College?
Improved confidence and self-efficacy
By mastering fundamental skills, you will become more confident in your abilities and more willing to approach new challenges and learning experiences.
Enhanced employability
Foundation skills, including communication, problem-solving, and teamwork, are key attributes for workplace success and are often required for entry-level positions.
Pathway to further study
Foundation Skills qualifications can lead to NCEA Level 2 and other qualifications, opening doors to further education, training, and career opportunities.
Support for re-engagement
Cavalli College offers a structured and supportive environment that enables you to build confidence, overcome learning barriers, and re-engage with learning.
Wrap-around support
Personalised academic and pastoral support every step of the way. Your success is our priority!
Our Foundation Skills programme
Our programme is designed for the New Zealand workplace, ensuring our graduates develop the skills, attitude and confidence to pursue further study or employment
New Zealand Certificate in Foundation Skills
(Level 2)
Duration: 18 weeks (Full time)
Level: 2
Credits: 60
Frequently asked questions
If your question isn't answered below, feel free to get in touch.
Who is Cavalli College?
Cavalli College is a Category 1 Private Training Establishment (PTE) – the highest quality rating awarded by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA). We offer programmes that respond to real community needs, with a focus on Early Childhood Teaching that leads to NZ teacher registration, Health and Wellbeing, and Foundation Skills. We value wellbeing, strong relationships, and meaningful learning that creates lasting impact, both in our learners’ lives and in the communities they serve.
Why the name ‘Cavalli’?
Our name draws inspiration from the Cavalli Islands, located off the North-east coast of Aotearoa New Zealand – a place known for its strength, discovery, and sense of protection. Home to a marine reserve, these islands represent the “pearls of wisdom” we believe every learner carries within. Just as the Cavalli Islands stand firm amidst vast waters, Cavalli College is a place where learners can feel grounded, guided, and empowered to chart their own course in safe and supportive surroundings.
Are Cavalli College programmes accredited?
Yes. All programmes offered by Cavalli College are approved by NZQA.
Who makes up the Cavalli College Team?
Our team includes experienced and recognised academic leaders, dedicated learner support advisors, IT help, and a strong leadership team, all working together to ensure learners are supported, connected, and set up for success from enrolment to graduation.
What makes Cavalli College different from other training providers?
Our learner-first approach sets us apart. With a strong focus on wellbeing, personalised support, and real-world learning, we help learners gain practical skills and professional confidence that prepare them for employment or further study.
What Foundation Skills programmes does Cavalli College offer?
We currently offer one NZQA approved foundation skills qualification:
New Zealand Certificate in Foundation Skills (Level 2)
Are the programmes online or on campus?
Learners study via our learning platform Cavalli Online. Face-to-face support alongside Cavalli College recognised leaders and sector experts is available to learners.
What support is available for learners?
Cavalli College support is second to none! As NZQA Category 1 provider, Cavalli College is all about learner support to help learners succeed at every stage. This includes personalised academic guidance from experienced lecturers, one-on-one help with programme selection, and regular wellbeing check-ins. Our IT support team is also on hand to assist with any technical issues.
Who can study with us?
Select programmes are available to domestic learners aged 16+ who meet the entry requirements. Some programmes may also be available to international students – contact us for details.
Can I study while working?
Absolutely. Our flexible, blended learning mode is designed to fit around your job.
How long do the programmes take to complete?
18 weeks (Full-time).
Is Cavalli College right for me if I’m returning to study after a break?
Yes. Many of our learners are returning to study after time away from education or work. Our supportive environment and flexible delivery are ideal for helping you ease back into study at your own pace.
What kind of career outcomes can I expect?
Our graduates find employment in entry-level roles across a range of people and service fields.
What are the entry requirements?
Academic entry
- Applicants must be a minimum of 16 years old to commence the programme.
- Applicants must demonstrate literacy and numeracy skills based on previous study, or be developing skills towards Step 3 for Literacy and Step 4 for Numeracy on the Literacy and Numeracy for Adults Assessment Tool.
English proficiency
- All international applicants and domestic applicants for whom English is an additional language and te reo Māori is not the first language evidence of meeting English language requirements according to Rule 22 of the NZQA Programme Approval and Accreditation Rules 2022 for the level of the programme.
How much do the programmes cost?
Fees vary by programme. Contact us to discuss.
Can international learners enrol?
Select programmes are available to international learners. Please get in touch with our international team for detailed information on eligibility, visa requirements, and support available.
I’m not sure which programme is best for me, what should I do?
We’re happy to help you find the best fit. Contact our Enrolments Team at enrol@cavallicollege.nz or fill out the enquiry form on our website, and we’ll guide you through the next steps.