Business

Develop business skills that drive success with flexible courses available on campus, online or work-based.

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Why choose us for Business learning?

Nationally recognised business courses that drive productivity, profitability and growth.

On-the-job learning

On-the-job learning

Participants learn by doing through practical assessments with tutor support and skill application.

Industry-connected training

Industry-connected training

Our tutors are business professionals bringing current management challenges and solutions to learning.

Job-focused outcomes

Job-focused outcomes

Our tutors are business professionals bringing current management challenges and solutions to learning.

Business Courses FAQs

Whether you're just starting out or looking to advance your career, we've answered the most common questions about our business courses to help you get started with confidence.

What business courses do you offer?

We offer nationally-recognised business qualifications from Level 3 to Level 5, including Introduction to Team Leadership (Level 3, 26 weeks) and First Line Management (Level 4, 26 weeks). Our courses cover essential skills like leadership, management, communication, performance management, and strategic thinking. All programmes are designed for working professionals who want to advance their careers while staying in their current roles.

What delivery options are available for business courses?

We offer flexible delivery options to suit different learning preferences. Our work-based business courses, including Introduction to Team Leadership and First Line Management, are completely online with no campus attendance required. These allow you to learn while working, applying new skills immediately in your current role with manager verification of competencies. We also offer on-campus study options for courses like IT Essentials (Level 4) and Business Administration and Technology (Level 3), providing structured, hands-on learning environments with direct access to tutors and peer collaboration.

Who can enrol in your business courses?

Our business courses cater to different experience levels and career stages. Work-based programmes like Introduction to Team Leadership and First Line Management are designed for individuals currently in management or leadership roles, or those aspiring to these positions where they can demonstrate required competencies. Our on-campus business administration courses are ideal for school leavers, career changers, return-to-work parents, or anyone wanting to upskill for administrative roles in professional office settings.

How much time commitment is required?

Time commitment varies by course type. Our work-based business courses require minimal time commitment with just one hour per week of recommended study time, ensuring learning doesn't disrupt productivity or overwhelm busy professionals. On-campus programmes require scheduled class attendance where you'll participate in group activities, complete practical tasks, and work with modern business tools in real-world contexts.

How do assessments work for work-based business courses?

All assessments use actual workplace scenarios and projects, ensuring immediate relevance and application. Your manager or supervisor provides verification of competencies, and you'll apply learning directly to current workplace challenges. This real-world approach means you're developing practical skills that benefit both you and your organisation.

What qualifications will I receive?

You'll receive NZQA-approved qualifications: the New Zealand Certificate in Business (Introduction to Team Leadership) Level 3, or the New Zealand Certificate in Business (First Line Management) Level 4. These nationally-recognised credentials demonstrate proven competence in business leadership and management.

What support is available during my studies?

You'll have access to monthly assessor drop-in clinics, dedicated external assessors for continuous guidance, and ongoing support throughout the programme. Our business tutors are industry professionals who bring current management challenges and solutions to your learning experience.

Are these courses suitable for employers wanting to upskill staff?

Absolutely. Our work-based business courses are specifically designed for employers who want to develop their teams. Participants learn while contributing to your business, and the skills are immediately applicable to current roles. This approach boosts retention, engagement, and productivity while building leadership capability within your organisation.

What career opportunities are available after completing business training?

Graduates move into supervisory roles, team leadership positions, management roles, and specialist business functions. The skills you develop - including performance management, strategic communication, and team motivation - are transferable across industries and provide a foundation for ongoing career advancement.

James from Auckland's Pasifika community had a clear vision - becoming a police officer to inspire youth. Through Skills Institute's hands-on Pre-Police & Defence Force course with tutor Prashant Naikar, he built confidence and discovered strengths he didn't fully recognise. Today, he continues his police journey while dreaming of becoming a tutor himself.

James Muliaga

Hayley, a mum of three from Porirua, transformed her creativity into nail technology expertise. Skills Institute's flexible Level 4 course fit her life as a working mother, with tutor Ina Nolan guiding her through real-world training. Today, Hayley is planning to open her own nail salon by graduation

Hayley Mason

Fabiola, a mother of two from Chile with engineering background, found new adventures in hospitality at Skills Institute. Inspired by students' excellent customer service, she developed those same skills through hands-on practice with tutor Rahul. Today, she's confidently planning her next steps in the industry.

Fabiola Osorio

Marie grew up styling her Samoan family's hair, discovering her passion for hairdressing. Skills Institute helped her transform natural talent into professional expertise through hands-on learning. She overcame self-doubt to graduate Level 3 and complete Level 4 Hairdressing, ready for success.

Marie Tominiko

Nandita was managing 500+ recruitment rounds at Auckland Council when she saw potential for more. The NZ Certificate in Business Level 4 fit with her full-time work, with her breakthrough mastering Excel. She's transformed from managing processes to driving change.

Nandita Singh

James Muliaga
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