Overview
*Subject to NZQA approval.
Free 2 You Computing Classes For All Levels
Learn at your own pace through four modules:
- Introduction to computing, the internet and email
- Word Processing
- Excel Spreadsheets
- Presentation Software
You will learn through the latest Internationally standardised online tutorials, activities and tests, with the support of our friendly knowledgeable coaches on hand to offer assistance to gain computer confidence and learn new skills.
You will learn at your own pace and speed, working through each module at a pace that bests suits your learning. Each module is allocated 5 weeks, but you can move through at your own pace.
Introduction to computing, Internet and email
Learn the basic of how a computer works, how to create files in a Microsoft Windows environment, learn how to access and search on the Internet, how to create emails and attach a document. Correct online etiquette and how to keep yourself safe online.
Microsoft Word - Beginners
Word–processing involves creating a document (letter, memo, report, assignment, etc.) on the computer. To create a document you start with a blank screen on the computer, and as you type information, it is displayed on the screen as a Word Document. Once a document is created you can change its appearance and/or text, rearrange or make corrections to it; you can print it, or save it, add to it, reprint or edit at a later time.
Word is recommended as the pre–requisite module to all other modules on this programme. You will learn functions, features and techniques in Word that are used in other Microsoft applications (eg. Excel).
Microsoft Excel - Beginners
Excel is used to create spreadsheets. Spreadsheets are documents that are laid out in a graph style, with columns and rows, rather than a blank “page” as in Word.
Spreadsheets are used for mathematical calculations, for example, add a list of numbers, find the average in a set of numbers or to calculate GST. Data, (text and numbers) is entered into the spreadsheet using the keyboard, and calculations are made by using the functions and features available in Excel.
Microsoft Powerpoint - Beginners
Powerpoint is used to create presentations, documents with images and slide shows, and much more. Many of the basic functionalities are the same as within Word.
What to bring?
Please bring a USB stick to save your work, and pen and paper to take notes. You will be supplied with class text and printer paper.
Entry Requirements
All applicants must:
- be at least 16 years old at the time the programme commences.
- be able to understand follow, and respond to instructions given in English.
- be physically able to complete the programme specific outcomes
All applicants must:
- be at least 16 years old at the time the programme commences.
- be able to read, write, and communicate in English at a basic level.
- be physically able to complete the programme-specific outcomes.
All applicants must:
- be at least 16 years old at the time the programme commences.
- be able to read, write, and communicate in English at a basic level.
- be physically able to complete the programme-specific outcomes.
Applicants for whom English is not a first language must have an IELTS score of 5 with no band score lower than 5; or an accepted international equivalence.
All applicants must:
- be at least 16 years old at the time the programme commences.
- be able to read, write, and communicate in English at a basic level.
- be physically able to complete the programme-specific outcomes.
Applicants for whom English is not a first language must have an IELTS score of 5.5 with no band score lower than 5; or an accepted international equivalence.
Intakes & Applications
Dates & Bookings
Youth Guarantee Fund*
If you are aged 16 to 24, you could study for FREE as part of the government's Youth Guarantee fund. To qualify for the Youth Guarantee fund, you must meet the following criteria:
- Complete an application for a course that is covered by the Youth Guarantee fund.
- Be a NZ citizen or permanent resident.
- Be 16 to 24 years old at the time the course starts. Learners who are 15 years old and hold Ministry approved early leaving exemption from their school may also be eligible. This exemption must be in place before the course starts.
Priority places will be given to students who:
- have not yet achieved NCEA Level 1 or NCEA Level 2; or
- have completed a Level 1 or Level 2 qualification through a Youth Guarantee provision programme.
All free study is subject to funding confirmation. Proof of residency status is required. Programme entry criteria may apply. Eligibility for student allowances or student loans may vary. Contact Studylink for more information.
* All fees and study costs found on this website are indicative course fees only and exclude the Compulsory Student Services Fee (CSSF) levy.
The 2025 CSSF levy is $300 per full-time equivalent student (120 credits) and funds key services for students.
Prices are in New Zealand Dollars including GST, and are for domestic students only, unless otherwise stated. For programmes longer than one academic year in duration, the fees quoted are for the first year. Final study costs depends on a number of factors including the courses you select to study. All fees and study costs are subject to confirmation, including zero fees courses.
Courses and programmes may be cancelled, postponed or have their content or configuration changed from time to time (including during the academic year) at the discretion of NorthTec. See our full Terms and conditions.
Additional Information
Employment Pathways
About Te Pūkenga
Following the Government’s announcement of its intention to disestablish Te Pūkenga | New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology, please be assured that your programme of study or training will continue as planned while we work through the details of how this change will be implemented.
We are committed to ensuring that organisational changes that need to be made to meet the Government’s expectations do not impact the delivery of our programmes and training for our learners and employers.
If you need access to learner support services or have any concerns, please contact us.
