Samuel Cooper (left) with his brother

When his younger brother experienced a traumatic head injury, Samuel Cooper left his job on an organic farm in Portugal to return home and care for his sibling.

A caregiver working with the family recommended completing a qualification with New Zealand Tertiary College which prompted Samuel to gain a New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Level 2), giving him important skills and knowledge.

“The Level 2 Certificate gave me a toolbox of skills and new perspective when looking at my caring role. In particular, the client-centred philosophy really helped me to look at my role as a partner to the client, rather than the client being my ‘job’,” he says.

“I came into healthcare out of necessity rather than interest, but it’s far more rewarding than my previous career!”

A typical day for Samuel is spent taking his brother to appointments with his multidisciplinary healthcare team, personal care, helping with food preparation, and keeping to a schedule of exercises and medication.

When reflecting on his study experience with NZTC, Samuel says it was positive and a lot easier than he expected.

“The course is well-designed and easy to navigate. I like to learn through practice, day to day and consistently, to give me time to reflect and really process the information and lessons I’m learning.”

When asked about next steps forward, Samuel shared, “I’ll most likely complete the New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing – Health Assistance Strand (Level 3) and go from there.”