Moolah, dosh, dolleros, putea. It's all about money, whatever the language. And some of us are notoriously bad – or at least have difficulties – managing our finances.

Studying for the Money Management Certificate at Te Wānanga o Aotearoa helps tauira (students) budget and save, as well as teaching them a range of skills for them, their whanau and future generations.

Tauranga-based kaiako (teacher) Sarah Lockwood says tauira who finish the programme only ever have positive things to say and classes will often fill with tauira who have been referred by their whānau or friends.

'Tauira find it really empowering because it gives them the knowledge to take control of their situation to make smart decisions to protect their future and that of their whānau future,” says Sarah who teaches at the Wānanga's campus in the city.

No matter your personal situation, Sarah firmly believes that the programme is relevant to everyone.

'Whether you are keen to learn about how to invest in the share market or managed funds, or want to understand how to get on the home ownership ladder, the power of leveraging, or even how to manage your budget better, the course teaches you how to make the most of your financial situation.”

After completing the 20-week programme, Sarah says many tauira will leave with a sense of confidence and empowerment when it comes to taking charge of their own financial health and freedom.

Not only does Sarah enjoy teaching the programme but she is also impressed by how TWoA is able to deliver it.

'The applied practical style of the classes and the sizes really suit my teaching style and I feel that tauira get the most out of the information in a small group that's consistent, and is a safe space for them to share and form relationships with each other.”

For those who are unsure about whether the programme will work for them, Sarah encourages them to come and chat to the kaiako on campus to get a clearer sense of what it's all about.

'It's not only a whole lot of useful information, it's information that you will very likely apply to your everyday life. And it could really change your future when it comes to the decisions you make with your money.”

Find out more: www.twoa.ac.nz/cmm