Awatapu College Among the Best

Awatapu College has been recognised as one of the 4 top-performing schools in New Zealand Supporting International Students

In 2015 Education New Zealand commissioned a survey to investigate the decision-making, expectations, perceptions and experiences of more than 2,000 students aged 16 and above. Awatapu College scored 100% in this online survey. Four of the top-performing schools in the Support Category were Papanui High School, Macleans College, Auckland Grammar School and Awatapu College.

INVOLVING INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS IN ACADEMIC, SCHOOL AND COMMUNITY LIFE

Awatapu College in Palmerston North is well staffed and has robust systems in place to provide in-class support across the curriculum, and to track and monitor the academic and pastoral care of its students. It has good processes in place to integrate the students and encourage inclusiveness. Building stronger relationships across the school community has also paid off for Awatapu College.

Mary Cherian Mathews, Director of International Education, says the school organises regular socials with students, homestay families and Kiwi buddies, and has introduced a system to involve international students in the wider life of the school and community throughout the year.

"We have also created a great awareness among our New Zealand students of our international students. We hold meetings with them and invite them to our International Department socials," says Mary. "We endeavour to give our best to them and expect the best from them - just like we would for our children."