The Tertiary Education Minister has announced that, from next year, everybody under 25 will be able to obtain basic tertiary level one and two qualifications for free.
Those taking levels one and two will have little or no prior qualifications.
The minister, Steven Joyce, said on Wednesday morning that the Youth Guarantee scheme, started in 2008 for 16 and 17-year-olds, will be expanded to include 18 and 19-year-olds.
The scheme provides free training for young people who aren't suited to traditional classroom training.
Mr Joyce also announced further funding so 20 to 24-year-olds can take level one and two foundation courses.
"Level one and two courses deliver core foundational skills required for success in life. They provide students with the skills required for higher-vocational study, training and employment. It's vital that those who don't have a qualification at this level go and earn one."
The scheme provides free training in trades such as carpentry, engineering, horticulture, plumbing, gas-fitting, and brick-and block-laying.
Mr Joyce says the funding allowing these changes comes from the Foundation-Focused Training Opportunities programme, which began three years ago and will now be wound down.
He says the programme consisted of training courses for beneficiaries but it did not meet performance targets.
Technology educator applauds
Wellington Institute of Technology chief executive Linda Sissons says the extension is a huge bonus for disadvantaged youth.
Ms Sissons says the Government's decision to include 18 and 19 year olds in the scheme means a number of young people who wouldn't consider going back into education will now be able to benefit from it.
"By having fees free, we're really making it possible for them to get work-related education and then hopefully go into employment or apprenticeship."