Overview

The National Certificate in Goods Service (Heavy Vehicle Driver) (Level 3) is designed in support of efficient, effective and safe operations associated with the transportation of goods and services by heavy road vehicle.  The training of drivers at this level gives employer’s confidence in that their operations are being carried out efficiently, safely and within the requirements of the industry’s best practice standards and the New Zealand legislative system.

Training activities are designed and implemented in collaboration with respective industry organisations to reduce any unnecessary impact on daily operations while at the same time ensuring that professional training standards are continuously maintained.  Training is also designed to meet the needs of the individual driver whether such needs are associated with a heavy rigid vehicle or a heavy combination vehicle.

Content

• Safe driving requirements and knowledge of traffic law
• Health and safety as it relates to operating heavy vehicles
• Heavy vehicle driving skills and the transport of goods by road including those identified as dangerous goods.
• Heavy vehicle dynamics, risk reduction techniques and safe driving strategies
• Vehicle systems and components
• Loading procedures, restraint systems and forklift operations
• Log book and fatigue management
• Fuel efficient driving.

All training sessions are confirmed through the completion of both practical and theoretical assessments progressed throughout the training period.

Career Options

• Truck driver
• Truck operator

Admission Information

For strand in Heavy Rigid Vehicle:

• A minimum of Class 2 Drivers Licence for at least 3 months (if 25 years of age or over) or 6 months (if 24 years of age or under).
• Must hold a Class 4 Learner licence.
• Must have undergone training and have a basic knowledge of a heavy rigid vehicle use, including both manual and automatic transmissions.
• Mature students who cannot provide evidence of previous academic achievement may be asked to complete a literacy/numeracy assessment to determine the level of support they will require.

For strand in Heavy Combination Vehicle:

• A minimum of Class 4 Drivers Licence for at least 3 months (if 25 years of age or over) or 6 months (if 24 years of age or under).
• Must hold a Class 5 Learner licence.
• Must have undergone training and have a basic knowledge of a heavy combination vehicle use, including both manual and automatic transmissions.
• Mature students who cannot provide evidence of previous academic achievement may be asked to complete a literacy/numeracy assessment to determine the level of support they will require.

Applicants for whom English is not their first language require a minimum IELTS score of 5.5.

The course is also open to applicants who already hold a Class 5 drivers licence and actively employed in the log transport industry or on other driving related duties.

Qualification Gained:

National Certificate in Goods Service (Heavy Vehicle Driver) (Level 3) with strands in Heavy Rigid Vehicle, and Heavy Combination Vehicle.