The New Zealand Certificate in Scaffolding (Advanced) (Level 5) is delivered through a block course apprenticeship model. Fees are charged per training block, covering the formal off-job training delivered by Vertical Horizonz.

Between blocks, apprentices continue developing skills in their workplace through on-the-job learning and assessment, supported by their employer and supervisor. This approach ensures training is focused, practical, and directly applied to real work environments.

Block-based fees provide clear, predictable costs for both learners and employers, while supporting an earn while you learn apprenticeship pathway.

Balance to be paid before each block course.

Each block is delivered at key stages of the apprenticeship and focuses on advanced scaffolding skills, design, leadership, and assessment aligned to the Level 5 qualification outcomes.

What the fees cover:

• Delivery of all scheduled block courses

• Access to qualified trainers with industry expertise

• Assessment and moderation aligned to NZQA requirements

• Ongoing learner support throughout the programme

• Administration and reporting related to apprenticeship training

Workplace learning and day-to-day employment are completed with the apprentice’s employer and are not charged as part of the training fee.

By completing this qualification, apprentices will be able to: 

• Apply advanced design principles to the planning and design of complex scaffolding structures 

• Safely manage and use advanced scaffolding components.

• Design, erect, dismantle, and inspect multifaceted and complex scaffolding systems in accordance with relevant legislation, standards, and WorkSafe Good Practice Guidelines 

• Provide sitewide leadership, including supervising scaffolders and coordinating scaffolding operations 

• Lead scaffolding activities on medium to large projects across construction, industrial, and event environments 

These outcomes reflect the advanced technical and leadership expectations of the scaffolding sector at Level 5. 

To enrol in the New Zealand Certificate in Scaffolding (Advanced) (Level 5), learners must: 

• Be over 16 years of age
• Hold a current comprehensive first aid certificate before enrolment (unit standards 6400, 6401, 6402).
• Be in employment in New Zealand and engaging with work related to the scope of the programme. The employer and applicant, in conjunction with VHNZ, must complete a training agreement. 
• Be physically fit and able to demonstrate physical competency for the skills being trained. 
• Have an employer and supervisor able to support workplace training and verification 
• Hold a New Zealand Certificate in Scaffolding (Level 4) (Trade) or National Certificate in Scaffolding (Level 4) (Intermediate) to enter this programme. This ensures learners entering the programme already have the foundational trade experience required to progress to advanced scaffolding work. 

Graduates of this qualification may progress into roles such as: 

• Advanced Scaffolder 

• Scaffolding Supervisor 

• Scaffolding Site Supervisor 

• Leading Hand Scaffolder 

• Scaffolding Operations or Works Supervisor 

These roles involve planning, leading, and overseeing complex scaffolding activities across a range of sectors, including commercial construction, industrial shutdowns, infrastructure, and events.

This apprenticeship is delivered using a blended, workbased learning model, allowing apprentices to earn while they learn. 

Training includes: 

• On-the-job learning in the apprentice’s workplace, supported by a qualified supervisor 

• Block courses delivered by Vertical Horizonz, focusing on advanced technical skills, design, and leadership 

• Workplace assessments and verification, ensuring skills are demonstrated in realworld conditions 

• Ongoing learner support through regular contact, site visits, and guidance from our training team 

This approach ensures apprentices develop practical, jobready skills while meeting NZQA qualification requirements and industry expectations.