It has been a very busy term in the International Department.

Visiting Group

A UCE group from Thailand visited for us for two and a half weeks during October. These students were from all over Bangkok and must pass an English exam before being allowed to participate. They ranged in age from 14yrs – 16yrs, with four males, 16 females and one teacher. The students enjoyed being hosted by our local families and enjoying the ‘kiwi’ lifestyle and traditions. Everyone loved fish 'n' chips Fridays!!

During their time at school the students experienced sporting encounters like basketball and badminton, decorating gingerbread men in Hospitality, felting and flax work in crafts, speaking their names, making poi in Maori culture and improving their English through ESOL learning. They were integrated with our local students and enjoyed the opportunities to try new subjects, make ‘kiwi’ friends and simply enjoy our school life.

A huge highlight of their visit was the ‘farm trip’. They rode in a ‘big’ tractor, watched sheep shearing, dogs working sheep, had a bbq and took part in tailing lambs. To watch the students enjoying the open spaces, running around in the paddocks and spending time with the animals was most rewarding. There were smiles everywhere!

The group performed for us at their farewell and prepared lovely Thai food for us all to enjoy. It was a very successful trip and we look forward to the next group in 2017.

Japan & Thailand trip

During November Bruce Kearney and I travelled to Bangkok, then I went on to Japan, to meet agents and visit schools. This was an important trip, to re-establish relationships and build on contacts that have been secured. It also gives us the opportunity to meet all the new incoming students for 2017 and catch up with previous students. This is always a highlight and brings much joy to all.

End of year activity programme

All of our International students who were not involved with exams enjoyed several weeks of fun activities throughout the area. These included ice skating, rock climbing, surfing, Adrenalin Forest, Christchurch Show, boating, 10 pin bowling, golf and biking. This was a great opportunity to develop and test their own skills, and try something new.

We now FAREWELL all our Internationals and wish them well for the future and thank them for their time spent with us. All the best to the following students:

Sara Takahashi - Maria Nishi - Ramu Seyama - Yota Koga - Kazu Hasegawa - Toshimi Kimura - Ikeda Ikeda - Yuta Kameda - Miyu Nagoshi - Hibiki Ohashi - Mahiro Otsuka - Yuma Nakijima - Tomomi Miyazaki - Fumika Itazu - Kanya Nachai

Nicky Ewins - International Director

SPECIAL INVITATION TO ALL HOST FAMILIES

Please join us in the School Staffroom 

Wednesday 14th December at 6.30pm

Drinks & Nibbles

RSVP to Nicky 027 200 2430 or Fiona 027 536 0022

To say ‘thank you’ for all your time and efforts

MERRY CHRISTMAS WISHING YOU HAPPY AND SAFE HOLIDAYS