Site visit for Building Regula...
Our NZ Certificate in Building Regulatory Environment (BRE) in-class stream of students had the opportunity to see their learning...
Ronald Dantas is taking the ambulance to the top of the cliff.
The former corrections officer used to monitor troublemakers and inmates withdrawing from drugs or vulnerable to self-harm while working for Mt Eden Prison's Intervention and Support Unit. “I thought since I have seen this part of human nature, why not work with mental health people and see how I can make a difference?” he says.
Now Ronald is building a preventative fence at the top of the cliff as a new employment consultant for mental health and addiction. The 40-year-old is working while studying part-time at Royal Oak for the NZ Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Mental Health and Addiction Support) (Level 4). He expects to graduate in 2023.
The programme has enhanced his personal and professional life. “At work, it has given me a lot of understanding as to how to interact with the service user and their families. In my personal life, I have learned how I can look after myself and my family’s wellbeing better. As a human, it has made me more mature and given me a good understanding of my surroundings.” Ronald, of Mt Roskill, says a highlight of the programme has been the teaching style of his lecturer, Chintal. “She looks after her students and has a humble approach. She gives us proper information and explains things in a simple manner.” He also welcomes the diverse cultures of fellow students with their different life experiences.
The India-born student launched his early career in the hospitality industry. He worked in New Zealand as a chef for a couple of years before switching sectors to work as a corrections officer at Mt Eden Prison. Working in the jail's Intervention and Support Unit inspired him to study mental health.
