To become a health care assistant you need to have at least three years of secondary education. Useful subjects include English, maths and biology.

Some health providers require health care assistants that have no previous convictions.

Part-time polytechnic training courses in health, human relations and care of the elderly may be useful for health care assistants.

Skills are gained on the job. Most employers conduct an initial in-house training or orientation course when you start the job.

It is preferred that those working in rest homes complete a rest home care course while working. Qualifications are available through Careerforce, the Community Support Services Industry Training Organisation.

Careerforce website - information about qualifications, education and training for those working in the health and disability sector

Useful experience for health care assistants includes:

• work in rest homes and nursing homes
• hospital work
• any job that involves helping people.