Great Stories Begin Here - Meet Faoa
My name is Faoa, and I have been studying with Skills Update Training Institute for the last 2 years. First I completed the National Certificate in Health, Disability and Aged Support Core Competencies Level 3 (Care for the Older Person), and this month I completed the NMIT Certificate in Community Support Services (Care for the Older Person) Level 4.
I moved to NZ from Samoa in 2006. Before starting training with Skills Update I was a fulltime stay at home mum of 5 boys. I love being a mum but I felt restless and wanted to get out of the house and learn some skills. I saw the course advertised on Facebook and thought I would give it a go. I struggled with some assignments at times, but my tutor Lyn Main was there every step of the way; supporting and encouraging me to continue.
Lyn helped me to get work experience while I was studying level 3, and I ended up getting a job with them. I now work for them fulltime. I am so happy to be working; my family are now free from struggle.
While studying, I learnt about holistic care; how to best care for clients by being polite, treating them equally, and communicating clearly – even with those who can’t talk. A lot of communication happens with our eyes. I am happy to care for the residents as they leave this world. I love my job.
In my job I now orientate new students on work experience. I love to show others how to interact with the residents in a professional and caring way. Next year I am looking to start my training as an enrolled nurse.
Doing this study has changed me. I used to be a stressed out, angry mum. I will never forget the support I received from this course. I was able to share problems and gain advice. I am now a happy mum.
I feel so grateful to have had the opportunity to undertake this study, and would encourage all interested students to come and enrol in the new NZ Certificates in Health and Wellbeing, levels 3 and 4 being offered through Skills Update in collaboration with NMIT this year. “
The Accelerate Education Division of Skills Update is taking new enrolments now for the NZ Certificates in Health and Wellbeing (Health Assistance) level 3, and Advanced Support level 4. Classes will be in West and South Auckland, so secure your place in the April intakes by contacting Jessica on 257 3155 ext 770, 021 533 705 or jessica@skillsupdate.co.nz. Places are open to all NZ citizens and permanent residents.
Have you got New Zealand's best shed? Show us and win!
Once again, Resene and NZ Gardener are on the hunt for New Zealand’s best shed! Send in the photos and the stories behind your man caves, she sheds, clever upcycled spaces, potty potting sheds and colourful chicken coops. The Resene Shed of the Year 2026 winner receives $1000 Resene ColorShop voucher, a $908 large Vegepod Starter Pack and a one-year subscription to NZ Gardener. To enter, tell us in writing (no more than 500 words) why your garden shed is New Zealand’s best, and send up to five high-quality photos by email to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz. Entries close February 23, 2026.
Poll: Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?
As reported in the Post, there’s a $30 million funding gap in financial mentoring. This has led to services closing and mentors stepping in unpaid just to keep helping people in need 🪙💰🪙
One proposed solution? Small levies on industries that profit from financial hardship — like banks, casinos, and similar companies.
So we want to hear what you think:
Should the government ask these industries to contribute?
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58.9% Yes, supporting people is important!
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26.1% No, individuals should take responsibility
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15% ... It is complicated
A Neighbourly Riddle! Don’t Overthink It… Or Do?😜
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the answer and the big reveal will be posted in the comments at 2pm on the day!
If you multiply this number by any other number, the answer will always be the same. What number is this?
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