Information for secondary students and school leavers
Is the Youth Guarantee programme for you?
- If school isn't working for you, you may qualify for more practical training under the Youth Guarantee programme
If you are 16 or 17 years old, and finding that school isn’t for you, the Youth Guarantee programme may be a good option. This government-funded programme began in January 2010, and allows you to take part in a range of hands-on tertiary courses – free of charge.
To qualify for the Youth Guarantee programme, you have to:
- be 16 or 17 years of age, and not be turning 18 within three months of starting study
- have completed Year 11 and achieved NCEA Level 1 or less
- have been thinking about leaving school and getting a job – or prefer to be working towards a career rather than staying at school
- want to learn practical skills
- be more motivated in a non-school setting
- be prepared to enrol in a full-time course for a minimum of one year.
What does the Youth Guarantee programme offer you?
- The Youth Guarantee programme can help set you on a career path
Under the Youth Guarantee scheme you can participate in a range of career/job programmes.
You will need to attend classes at one of the tertiary education institutes taking part in the programme. In 2010, 2,000 Youth Guarantee places will be available.
There is no distance learning option under this programme. Also, you won’t be able to get a student loan, as the programme is free, but you can apply for a student allowance.
Courses available under the Youth Guarantee will be linked to Levels 1-3 on the National Qualifications Framework, and will each have a clear, job-based outcome.
- Find out more about NCEA and the National Qualifications Framework
- Tertiary Education Commission website - information on Youth Guarantee courses
Learning, cultural and emotional support are part of the programme
The Youth Guarantee programme is set up to ensure you move smoothly between school, tertiary education and work, so you will receive all the support you need. You will be able to:
- participate in an orientation programme and meet other students enrolled in courses under the Youth Guarantee scheme
- get learning and cultural support
- get career planning and advice
- get counselling
- take part in extracurricular activities.
