Y Education New Zealand is proud to announce the inaugural success of the Y Education Learner Pathway Grant, a dedicated initiative designed to propel graduates into their next phase of life, whether that be further study, apprenticeships, or the workforce.

Launched in 2025, the grant was established to remove the financial hurdles that often stand between a learner and their long-term goals. In its first year, the $20,000 internal fund provided critical support to 15 learners across the country, proving that targeted financial assistance can be the catalyst for lifelong success.

The Y is known for investing in the next generation and the Learner Pathway Grant isn’t just a scholarship; it is a commitment to the “investing in the next step”. While many educational programs end at graduation, Y Education’s mission extends into the careers and futures of its whānau.

“The grant recognises the incredible commitment our learners show during their time with us,” says General Manager Education, Leona Van der Hayden, “By removing barriers—whether that’s the cost of a new set of tools for a trade or tertiary tuition fees—we are ensuring our learners move forward with confidence and dignity.”

The grant is designed to be uniquely flexible, tailored to the specific needs of the individual. Funding is categorized based on the learner’s chosen path, and funding is distributed with up to $3,500 for tertiary study or advanced training costs, up to $1,000 for costs associated with seeking employment and up to $750 for essential tools or equipment for trade placements, giving students real support for real needs.

Applications are open to current Y Education learners who have completed or are nearing the completion of their programme. Applicants can submit their story via a written or video application, which must be endorsed by their Tutor or Education Manager.  The selection criteria is based on a clear and defined “next step” pathway, evidence of commitment and readiness for the next stage or a demonstration of how the grant will remove specific barriers to their future pathway.

There are two application pools for the current year with Pool One closing at the end of May and Pool two closing at the end of October.

About Y Education New Zealand

Y Education is part of the Y movement in New Zealand which is all about tāngata and empowering communities’ and people.

We believe the greatest support you can have, is the support from other people behind you. To be backed by someone. When you have that kind of support, anything is possible.

Every young tāngata deserves the chance to be educated and shape their future. That’s why we’ve created a unique approach to education, designed specifically for youth who want more than the traditional school system offers.

We are on a journey to guide young tāngata toward positive outcomes through unique educational experiences. We understand that everyone’s path is different, and by elevating mana, we change learner’s lives for the good.

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.

At Y Education, you can discover who you want to be. At Y Education, we believe in you.

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Media Contact: Leona Van der Hayden | leona.vanderheyden@ymcaeducation.ac.nz | 027 540 6264 | https://ymcaeducation.ac.nz/