Kevin Pappachan
Support Worker Kevin Pappachan shares how his Level 3 and Level 4 studies helped him pursue a new career in person-centred care.
Name: Kevin Pappachan
Qualification: New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Advanced Care and Support) (Level 4)
Kevin Pappachan always felt a strong pull towards pursuing a career that would allow him to positively touch people’s lives.
“Even as a child, the idea of lending a helping hand and making a difference in the world appealed to me. The healthcare field seemed like the perfect fit, offering a direct path to enhance the quality of life for others – a goal that aligns perfectly with my values and ambitions.”
Initially putting qualifications in commerce and supply chain logistics to use at an insulation company, Kevin says his wife helped to identify his passion for healthcare and motivated him to change careers.
When looking for a program and provider, New Zealand Tertiary College was suggested by a colleague and he felt the New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing – Health Assistance Strand (Level 3) suited him.
Two years later, Kevin has recently graduated with a New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Advanced Care and Support (Level 4) and is determined to continue studying alongside his newfound career to keep his skills up-to-date.
“It’s for the benefit of my patients as it helps me to understand their needs and respond to them effectively.”
We asked Kevin some questions about his work in healthcare, and his study experience:
How was your experience studying through NZTC Online?
This is my first experience to study a program online and it was a very good experience as I felt I was studying in a college atmosphere. All the topics are well organised with very clear explanation. The journal after each topic aided me to think more about the topics and deepened my knowledge. Most importantly, the discussion part was very helpful as it provided a clear picture about how to approach each assignment.
What was your favourite course?
All the courses have been my favourite, but if I had to select one it would be ‘Risk Management and Safety’ as it discusses how to identify hazards and risks in a workplace, including in the role of Healthcare Assistant. Before studying the course, I had a limited knowledge about hazards in the workplace, but after the course I had more awareness about identifying actual and potential hazards, the risks associated with each hazard, management, and the methods of reporting and recording hazards and risks.
Talk me through a day in your job. What tasks and responsibilities do you have?
I’m a Support Worker at Idea Services and my main task is to look after the needs of one resident, Mr W. This includes showering and washing, preparing meals, medication assistance, and taking him outside to involve him in outdoor activities like visiting the local working men’s club, visiting car yards and shows, shopping, taking him to GP appointments, and visiting his family. By following organizational rules and procedures, and adhering to his personal care plan, we try and fulfill both his needs and personal interests.