Cavalli College proudly marked a significant milestone with the graduation of learners from the NZQA Approved New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Peer Support) (Level 4) and the New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Social and Community Services) Mental Health and Addiction Support Strand (Level 4).
Opening the ceremony, Nicole Robins, General Manager of Cavalli College, shared:
“This graduation celebration is not just about certificates, but about courage, resilience, community, and hope. Today is about each graduate — your journeys, your dreams, and your future.”
The event was filled with emotion and gratitude, acknowledging not only the graduates’ achievements but also the supporters who walked beside them on their journey.
These Level 4 programmes span nearly a full year and include foundational and specialist topics such as ethics, culturally safe care, communication in health settings, co-existing conditions, trauma-informed approaches, and recovery strategies. Each graduate also completed 200 hours of supervised work experience, applying their knowledge in real-world mental health and addiction environments.
Throughout their studies, graduates explored the values and qualities essential to supporting others — empathy, professionalism, whanaungatanga (relationship-building), respect, kindness, and compassion. The learning journey was far from easy. Many juggled study alongside whānau commitments, work, personal recovery, health challenges, and community responsibilities.
With shared determination and mutual support, they persisted. Each learner brought their own lived experience to the programme and used it to inform their learning, develop practical strategies, and most importantly, transform that understanding into meaningful support for others.
Jos Fox, Learner and Academic Support, reflected:
“I have had the privilege of reading and listening to your stories. It’s been an honour to witness how you’ve made sense of the past, planned for the future, and already begun making a difference in people’s lives.”
Throughout the programme, graduates demonstrated the ability to reflect on their practice, set healthy boundaries, communicate with cultural sensitivity, and apply trauma-informed care. These are not just workplace competencies — they are life-changing skills with ripple effects across whānau, communities, and the wider health and wellbeing sector in Aotearoa.
Some graduates have transitioned into roles within the sector, supported by their placements and the strength of their commitment. Others have chosen to continue their educational journey, building on the foundation they’ve established and expanding their ability to make an impact.
In her closing message to graduates, Jos Fox encouraged them to “celebrate every win, no matter the size. Be proud of what you’ve achieved. You are a beacon of hope for others — for those who may just need someone to believe in them, to walk alongside them, and to hold hope when they cannot.”
To our graduates: Your success is a testament to what becomes possible when courage meets opportunity. We honour your growth, your resilience, and the barriers you’ve overcome. You are now part of a growing movement reshaping the future of health and wellbeing in Aotearoa. We are proud of your journey, and we can’t wait to see the difference you will continue to make.
Cavalli College: Where learning meets purpose.
Interested in gaining a Level 4 Health and Wellbeing qualification? Learn more about the New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Peer Support) (Level 4) or the New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Social and Community Services) (Level 4) Mental Health and Addiction Support Strand programme.