U-Skills - LEVEL 3

U-Skills Academy New Zealand Police Pathway

Are you interested in serving the community? The UCOL Academy New Zealand Police Pathway will provide you with knowledge about police and policing in New Zealand.


Quick Facts

Locations

UCOL Manawatū in Palmerston North, UCOL Whanganui, UCOL Wairarapa in Masterton

Dates

Starting: Week of 09 Feb 2026

Finishing: Week ending 25 Sep 2026

Delivery days:

Palmerston North - Mondays

Whanganui - Tuesdays

Masterton - Mondays


View Timetable
Duration

33 weeks


See Course Hours & Duration for details
Domestic Fees

Fees-free

Application Forms

Overview

This is a foundation level programme that will help you develop an understanding of the knowledge, skills, attributes and attitudes needed to be a member of our Police force. On the completion of this programme, you’ll be endorsed as a preferred candidate throughout the recruitment process.

How to apply

If you're in year 13 at secondary school and you are interested in applying for the UCOL Academy New Zealand Police programme, talk to your careers advisor at school. Application is arranged in partnership with your parents/caregivers and your school. Once you've talked to everyone required, you can use the application form at the top of the page to apply.

Course Hours

Delivered from 9am - 3pm in each location.

Palmerston North: Mondays

Whanganui: Tuesdays

Masterton: Mondays

Course Information

This programme comprises 20 credits.

Unit Standard 4251 (Level 3) (3 Credits)

Develop a career pathway plan towards a role within New Zealand Police.

Unit Standard 1296 (Level 3) (3 Credits)

Plan, prepare and conduct an informal interview to demonstrate knowledge of basic investigative skills.

Unit Standard 1297 (Level 4) (5 Credits)

Plan, prepare and conduct a formal interview to demonstrate knowledge of basic investigative skills, and apply law and legislation to a common policing scenario.

Unit Standard 9681 (Level 3) (3 Credits)

Contribute to a group task to develop a prevention-based project appropriate within the community.

Unit Standard 11097 (Level 3) (3 Credits)

Demonstrate active listening to gain information in a common policing setting.

Unit Standard 26971 (Level 3) (3 Credits)

Describe good mental health and factors that contribute to mental health wellbeing and describe factors that contribute to mental health challenges.

Domestic Entry Requirements

For year 13 secondary school learners (NZ Citizens, permanent residents or learners with an applicable visa allowing them to be enrolled in a secondary school).

Applications are to be received from participating schools.

Career Opportunities

Successful completion of the UCOL Academy New Zealand Police programme is the first step in a rewarding journey. You will know what you need to do to pursue a career in New Zealand Police. If this is for you, you can undertake further tertiary studies in:

  • New Zealand Police Training College

  • New Zealand Certificate in Exercise Level 4

  • New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Social and Community Services)

Employment Opportunities

  • New Zealand Police

  • New Zealand Defence Force

Advice And Guidance

This programme is part of a suite of 'Academy' programmes offered by UCOL to secondary learners seeking to explore their career options while still in school. Gain practical experience and NCEA Credits.

How to apply

If you're interested in applying for the UCOL Academy New Zealand Police programme, talk to your careers advisor at school. Application is arranged in partnership with your parents/caregivers and your school.

Cost

Fees-free when criteria are met.

Transport

Transport assistance is available if you meet the criteria.

Attendance expectations

Learners must maintain appropriate attendance at both secondary school and Academy to remain enrolled in the Academy Programme.

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