It has certainly been an interesting year for the International Department. A large intake of new international students usually arrives for term three, but not so in 2020.

As the International Department recalibrates and prepares for what looks to be an uncertain 2021, we are also heavily focussed on the pastoral support of our 38 international students, who chose to stay in Christchurch through the pandemic.

These remaining international students are our loyal returners every year. They have committed to a New Zealand education long-term and make an important contribution to the diversity within our school and community.

The uncertainty around international travel in the medium term is tough for some international students and their families back home, so spare a thought for these guys over the coming months and particularly over the Christmas break. We thank them for recognising the value of, and committing to, a Riccarton High School education.

But it’s certainly not all doom! The office continues to hum along busily, and the International Peer Support team have rallied around our international students, providing them with extra activities and social opportunities. On July 8th we took a mid-winter overnight trip to Orohaki, which everyone thoroughly enjoyed. Here are some photos: