Careerforce has launched an updated Cleaning Level 3 programme, shaped by feedback from learners, workplaces, assessors, and subject matter experts across commercial cleaning, aged care, healthcare, and other settings.
The redesigned NZQA recognised programme responds to practical barriers identified across the sectors and includes wide-ranging changes to make learning and assessment more flexible, accessible, relevant and practical.
Careerforce Executive Director Rod Bentham said the updates reflect the depth and breadth of feedback received and recognise the essential contribution cleaners make to safe, functional and welcoming workplaces.
“We listened carefully to people working, learning and assessing across very different cleaning environments. Their feedback was clear: the programme needed to better reflect the realities of the job and remove unnecessary barriers to learners demonstrating what they know and can do," said Bentham.
“These are substantial changes, not simply minor revisions. The updated programme offers clearer language, more flexible evidence options and more practical resources, while giving greater recognition to cleaners as skilled workers. We believe it will provide a better experience for learners, assessors and workplaces."
Key changes include the option to use either observation or attestation where appropriate, clearer and more inclusive assessment language, new practical job aids, stronger guidance for assessors and a broader cultural lens that recognises different ways of learning and demonstrating competence.
The programme structure has also been revised. Unit Standard 9694, Communication Process Theory, replaces Unit Standard 376, Customer Service and Behaviour. The combined health and safety and infection control module has been separated into two focused modules, giving these critical areas greater attention and supporting clearer application in the workplace.
Bentham added that the updated programme better supports the diversity of the cleaning workforce and the environments in which cleaners work.
“Cleaning work happens across different shifts, sites, cultures and operating environments. A more flexible and mana-enhancing approach helps learners build on the skills and experience they already have, while giving workplaces practical ways to support development and recognise competence.”
The improved Careerforce Cleaning Level 3 programme is available from October 2026.
More information about the changes is available here: Cleaning Level 3 just got better
