Vardia Hardwick always had an underlying ambition to work in the health sector, but life took her on a different path. When the opportunity arose to study again after having her four children, Vardia did her research and found NZSE to be the most suitable option for her circumstances.
“I looked at NZSE’s social media and I could see that it was a great place to be. I was worried that I wouldn’t qualify, but once I enquired, I discovered that you can get a chance to study even if you didn’t have really good qualifications from school. Plus, I have had four kids, and thought that might be a barrier, but it wasn’t – I went through two programmes and graduated!”
Flexibility was crucial to Vardia because of her family, which is why the blended mix of online and on-campus learning in the NZ Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Level 3) was a perfect fit for her schedule. “If one of my children were sick, the tutors supported me in catching up with the course work,” says Vardia.
The on-campus learning and practical experience however was ultimately the best part of the programme for Vardia.
One element of the practical learning was spending 200 hours in a work placement, in which students are allocated a ‘buddy’ – a staff member that they shadow and learn from.
“There was such a big emphasis on the practical side of learning, and because I am a hands-on learner, I benefitted. The practical teaching helps me learn faster than reading and listening to someone talk. My biggest takeaway was that I learned how to interact with people of different cultures, religions, and ages.”
Not only did Vardia have a priceless learning experience in her practical work training, but she also built friendships with staff, residents, and other students – “In a healthcare environment, you’ve got to work together as a team. We built a strong bond.”
After graduation, Vardia began a job as a healthcare assistant, and as a support worker with the elderly.
“I think the elderly have so much wisdom and knowledge, and sometimes they just need somebody to listen. I love being there to support them.
“I use my skills from NZSE every day, like interacting and providing the best care for people of different cultures, religions, ages, and backgrounds.”
