After almost three years of interrution the International Department at Westland High School is welcoming more students for 2023.

This term we welcome Sakina from Japan and Sophie and Johanna from Germany. Sophie and Johanna will be here for two terms and Sakina will spend the whole year at Westland High School. Marlene and Julia arrived in 2022 and have enjoyed a fabulous summer in Hokitika and around the South Island with their host families.The international department is such an important part of Westland High School both for the students we host and our local students. Westland High School students are able to learn about new cultures and also showcase their own, increasing pride in their school, their town and themselves. 

We have had many students offer to be buddies this year and we are proud of them for stepping up to the task. Thanks to Georgia Ritchie, Jessie Smith, Jeannelize Diplock and Madision Given. The programme also gives our students the chance to practice our school values of Manaakitanga and Whanaukitanga.

Our host families play a big part in the success of our programme and we are forever grateful to them for providing kind and caring homes for our students. We have a number of host families who enjoy the experience so much that they host again and again. It is a great way to experience another culture without leaving home. If you have an interest in hosting an international student please get in touch with Jane Brownie, janebrownie@westlandhigh.school.nz