The Y North Otago is more than just a training provider; we are setting our learners on a pathway for success outside of traditional schooling with our tāngata-centred model focussing on the individual learner.

We guide young tāngata to reach positive outcomes through unique educational opportunities. At Y Education, you’ll find a supportive environment where your tutors will have your back. It’s a place where you can learn in a way that makes sense to you, pursue what excites you, and gain the qualifications that open doors to meaningful careers.

Mainstream school is not a fit for all individuals for many reasons, and at the Y we offer a range of free tertiary programmes for youth aged 16 to 24.  Designed to build the foundational skills of young people and open doors to further study or employment, we offer NCEA Level 1 and 2 courses along with specialised options like Y Goals, which is designed to build essential literacy and numeracy skills.

With our small class sizes and one on one tutor support, our rangitahi are making huge steps to allow them to have the freedom to study what interests them, in a way that suits their learning style.

Operating from the Ara campus on Humber Street, our commitment is to guide young people to positive outcomes through unique educational experiences. Programmes like Foundation Skills Level 1 and 2 (known as Te Hiringa o te Wai and Kia rite mo te mahi respectively) provide critical life and work-ready skills. This is particularly crucial for youth who are not engaged in education, training, or employment, giving them a much-needed chance to gain qualifications and build mana—a sense of self-respect and influence.

For the young people of North Otago, the outcome is often life changing. Beyond the NCEA credits, students are building resilience, confidence, and a clear path forward. The focus is on preparing them to successfully transition into the workforce, apprenticeships, or higher-level study.

Alongside our Education Centre, we also have our Y Drive Driving School.  A lack of licence is cited as one of the biggest barriers to gaining employment, so we give young people the opportunity to receive driver education and licence support for those seeking to attain their Learner, Restricted or Full New Zealand driver licence.  With our competitively priced driving lessons and test support, we give them the freedom they need to achieve.

The Y Central South Island has been investing in the next generation since 1917, if you or someone you know would like to get back on the path to success, with a practical plan for a brighter future, reach out today! https://ymcaeducation.ac.nz/locations/oamaru or https://ymcasc.org.nz/service-location/oamaru/