Growing Local Leaders: People Potential Opens Mid Year Enrolments for Two Fees Free Business Qualifications
- Rimu Reporter
- 3 days ago
- 4 min read
In Hikurangi and across Te Tai Tokerau, many people are looking for ways to step up in their careers, build confidence, or formalise the leadership skills they already use every day. With mid‑year intakes now open, People Potential is offering two strong pathways for anyone keen to study in 2026, both fees‑free and designed to support real growth in the workplace.
We sat down with the team at People Potential to talk about what these programmes offer, who they’re for, and why now is a great time to take that next step.
“These programmes are built for everyday leaders, the ones already guiding others at work, or those who know they’re ready for more responsibility but want the skills and confidence to back it up. Our focus is practical learning, real‑world application, and creating a supportive environment where people genuinely grow.” Nikki Hawes, Management Tutor, People Potential.
Both programmes include workshops, hands‑on learning, and guidance from tutors who understand the realities of leadership in workplaces across Northland.
Programme 1: New Zealand Certificate in Business (Introduction to Team Leadership) Level 3 — Fees Free
Start date: Wednesday 24 June 2026 End date: Wednesday 21 October 2026 Schedule: Every Wednesday, 9am – 1pm Venue: People Potential, Whangārei Campus
This Level 3 qualification is designed for people stepping into leadership for the first time or those who’ve recently become team leaders. The programme includes:
· Understanding effective team performance
· Developing objectives for a team
· Leadership styles
· Communication with stakeholders
· Working cooperatively
· Responding positively to diversity
· Change management
· Problem solving and decision‑making
· Managing self effectively
· Professional and ethical behaviour
Participants can also gain a driver licence and an up‑to‑date CV stored on People Potential’s database.
Entry is open to those aged 16+ who have left school, can commit to the programme, and have the literacy and numeracy skills needed for Level 3 study.
Programme 2: New Zealand Certificate in Business (First Line Management) Level 4 — Fees Free
Start date: Monday 15 June 2026 End date: Monday 23 November 2026 Schedule: Every Monday, 9am – 1pm Venue: People Potential, Whangārei Campus
This Level 4 qualification is ideal for people already in leadership roles who want to strengthen their management capability. The programme includes:
· Problem solving and decision making
· Effective team leadership to develop a positive culture
· Achieving team goals and objectives
· Motivating and involving a team
· Effective communication
· Managing relationships and promoting positive performance
· Adapting leadership styles
· Human resource management
· Professional and ethical behaviour
Students can also receive support to gain a driver licence and an up‑to‑date CV.
Entry is open to those aged 16+ who have left school, can commit to the qualification, have the literacy and numeracy skills for Level 4 study, and have an industry placement for the practical components.
Getting to Class: Transport Options for Hikurangi Residents
For locals who want to study but are worried about transport, Hikurangi has two community‑friendly options that make accessing these programmes much easier:
Hikurangi Community Shuttle
Running mid‑week, the shuttle provides transport into Whangārei for appointments, errand and also, study. With services on Mondays and Wednesdays (when bookings are made), it lines up perfectly with both course timetables. Bookings require 24 hours’ notice.
Hikurangi Link
The Hikurangi Link also provides regular transport into town, giving students another reliable way to get to People Potential each week.
Both services help remove one of the biggest barriers to study for rural residents, making these qualifications more accessible than ever.
What do graduates say?
One recent graduate shared their experience with us, describing how the programme shaped both their confidence and their leadership style:
“I chose to learn at People Potential because I knew from previous experiences that I would receive the best support in a purposeful learning environment. This training helped me understand different leadership styles, allowing me to identify the leader I wanted to be and the changes I needed to make.”
“As I progressed in my course, I also grew in my role as a supervisor, making the transition easier by implementing what I learned. The main skill I learnt was effective communication, including how to have courageous conversations.”
“I feel I have gained the skills I needed and am happy in my role now, the scariest part is taking that first step, but once you do, you will be fully supported. The tutor is there to guide you, and you will have everything you need to build a brighter future. The opportunities at People Potential extend beyond courses; they see potential in you and offer a welcoming community.”
People Potential says this kind of transformation is exactly why they do what they do.
Why now is a great time to enrol
With both programmes running one half‑day per week and offered at no cost to eligible participants, they’re accessible options for people balancing work, whānau, and study.
And with the Hikurangi Community Shuttle and Hikurangi Link available, transport doesn’t need to be a barrier.
“Once someone walks through the door, we walk alongside them. Whether they’re aiming for a promotion, wanting to step into leadership, or simply wanting to grow personally — we’re here to support that journey.” Nikki Hawes, Management Tutor, People Potential
Interested in joining the next intake?
Spaces fill quickly, and both programmes require a selection interview. If you’re thinking about upskilling, stepping into leadership, or strengthening your management skills, now is the perfect time to reach out.
Contact People Potential for full enrolment details and start your journey toward a stronger, more confident future.
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