Becoming a cleaner might seem simple on paper. There are no specific entry requirements because you mostly gain skills on the job, and there are also no specific secondary education requirements (although NCEA Level 1 maths and English are useful to have).

However, to become a successful and qualified commercial cleaner, it’s highly recommended to take certification courses. For example, health and safety training is necessary to ensure not just your safety but also that of those you’re working for.

It’s also a good idea to take the New Zealand Certificate in Cleaning (Level 2) and New Zealand Certificate in Cleaning (Level 3).

That said, here’s what you have to know about these two courses.

What Is New Zealand Certificate in Cleaning (Level 2)?

New Zealand Certificate in Cleaning (Level 2) is designed for people who want to join the cleaning industry already equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to deliver high-quality services that meet professional standards.

If you’re already employed in the industry, then this certificate can help reinforce your experience. The qualification also comes with an optional strand in Health Care Facilities Cleaning. This way, if you want to offer your cleaning services to establishments like hospitals or clinics.

Ultimately, taking this course can pave the way for anyone who wants to build a thriving career in the cleaning industry.

Upon completing the course, you will be expected to be able to:

  • know about organisational processes involved in cleaning.
  • apply such knowledge about organisational processes when carrying out security procedures when cleaning.
  • know about cleaning products, equipment, and procedures to use them not only correctly, but in a way that keeps themselves, others, and the environment safe.
  • communicate effectively as a cleaner.

In addition, those who take the optional strand in Health Care Facilities Cleaning are expected to be able to effectively apply infection control procedures and enforce contamination prevention when necessary.

With a New Zealand Certificate in Cleaning (Level 2), you will also have a stepping stone for higher-level or specialised positions. This course can also help prepare you for managing your own cleaning business.

What Is New Zealand Certificate in Cleaning (Level 3)?

New Zealand Certificate in Cleaning (Level 3) builds on the Level 2 certificate. It’s designed to provide training for workers in the industry to be able to provide high-quality generalist or specialist cleaning services. Those who take up this course are also usually gearing for management or leadership positions. As such, it has an optional strand for Specialist Cleaning and Supervision.

If you have already mastered the basics of cleaning, you can take the New Zealand Certificate in Cleaning (Level 3) course to further expand your knowledge and skill base.

Once you acquire this certification, you should be able to:

  • autonomously apply your knowledge of cleaning methodologies, products, and equipment to effectively perform cleaning duties and meet the highest standards.
  • apply knowledge of health and safety requirements, as mandated by the law, when responding to risks in the workplace where you work as a cleaner.
  • effectively communicate with clients and organisations to ensure the proper execution of cleaning tasks.

If you took the specialist cleaning strand, you are of course expected to be able to perform specialist cleaning duties well. Meanwhile, if you took the supervision strand, you should be able to manage a team of cleaners using the knowledge and skills you have acquired through training.

Why Take These Courses At All?

The cleaning industry in New Zealand is a robust one. According to careers.govt.nz, there are more than 35,000 cleaners in the country. This number is not that far off from the 2018 Census, which recorded more than 38,577 commercial and domestic cleaners who are actively working.

These numbers are expected to rise in the coming years. In short, the cleaning industry is extremely competitive. If you want to have a fruitful career, you want to have all the advantages that will put you ahead of the competition—and the above-mentioned courses will certainly give you an edge.

In addition, cleaning as a profession is anything but easy. Yes, you can keep your home nice and neat, but the standards are so much higher if you want to clean on a commercial level. This is not to mention establishments that require a different level of cleanliness and hygiene, such as the aforementioned health care facilities and food-related businesses.

The industry is also constantly changing. From smart equipment to greener cleaning products, professional cleaners need to keep up with the latest trends.

Just think of it this way: cleaning is a profession. To get good at it, you need to invest in training and these two courses are a good starting point. You owe it not just to yourself but also to your clients.

Good luck with all your future endeavours in the cleaning industry!