International Student Programmes


Rongotai College caters for students who wish to study across a range of programmes

International Study Programmes

Rongotai College offers a range of study options to suit international students seeking a full academic pathway, a cultural exchange experience or a shorter introduction to New Zealand school life.

1. Academic Programme

Our Academic Programme is designed for students seeking a pathway towards university entrance in New Zealand or another English-speaking country.

The programme usually takes two to three years and provides students with the academic preparation and English language skills required for tertiary study. Students who join Rongotai College in Year 10 and remain for four years have even greater opportunity to settle into the New Zealand education system, strengthen their English and achieve strong academic outcomes.

Explore our curriculum:

  • Academic Curriculum
  • Senior Curriculum Handbook
  • Junior Curriculum Handbook

2. Cultural Exchange Programme

Our Cultural Exchange Programme is ideal for students wishing to study in New Zealand for six months to one year.

Students have the opportunity to:

  • improve their English language skills
  • develop confidence speaking English in everyday situations
  • experience life in a New Zealand school
  • make friendships with local students
  • participate in sport, culture and College activities
  • experience New Zealand life, culture and the outdoors.

3. Short-Term and Group Programmes

Rongotai College welcomes individual students and groups for shorter stays, generally ranging from four to nine weeks.

Programmes can be tailored for groups of up to 30 students and may combine classroom learning, English language development, cultural experiences, sport and activities in and around Wellington.

For mixed-gender or mixed-age groups, Rongotai College can work alongside local partner schools, including Wellington East Girls’ College, South Wellington Intermediate School, Seatoun School and Lyall Bay School.

A Broad and Engaging Curriculum

International students can choose from an extensive range of academic, creative, practical and vocational subjects.

Languages

  • English and ESOL support
  • Te Reo Māori
  • Mandarin
  • Samoan
  • Spanish

Technology, Digital Learning and Trades

  • Robotics
  • Digital Technology
  • Computer Science
  • Carpentry
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Vocational Studies

Creative Arts

  • Visual Art
  • Photography
  • Painting and Printmaking
  • Drama
  • Film Studies
  • Music and Performance

Learn from Experienced and Inspiring Teachers

Rongotai students benefit from teachers who bring specialist academic knowledge as well as considerable professional, sporting and industry experience to the classroom.

Among our teaching staff are:

  • Dr Muck – Head of Mathematics
  • Dr Richardson – Physics specialist
  • Chris Tupu – former New Zealand basketball player, Senior Rongotai College Basketball Coach and Assistant Coach of Wellington’s National League team
  • Levi Loudon – Wellington representative hockey coach and Head Coach of Rongotai College hockey
  • Gabe Chambers – former executive chef with 35 years’ industry experience, former Le Cordon Bleu Wellington tutor and experience in a Michelin two-star restaurant in Europe
  • Stavros Ikonomakis – multilingual ESOL specialist
  • Ami Tasker – specialist in boys’ literacy education

Sport, Culture and Life Beyond the Classroom

Getting involved is an important part of the Rongotai experience. With more than 35 sporting options and an extensive range of cultural activities, clubs and interest groups, international students have plenty of opportunities to make friends, develop new skills and try something different.

Sporting opportunities include: athletics, basketball, cricket, fencing, football, golf, hockey, rowing, rugby, surfing, swimming, tennis, volleyball, water polo, yachting and many more.

Music, culture and clubs include: Big Band, Rockquest, Kapa Haka, Polynesian Club, debating, Chinese Club, cooking, chess and other student activities.

Something a Little Different

Fencing
Rongotai College is home to the Wellington Swords Club, providing students with access to specialist fencing opportunities, including equipment.

Aviation
Our proximity to Wellington Airport provides a unique opportunity for students interested in aviation. Rongotai offers aviation learning opportunities in conjunction with Wellington Aero Club, located approximately 800 metres from the College, including the opportunity to experience practical aspects of aviation and flight.

Find Out More

We would be delighted to discuss which programme would best suit you or your son.

For further information, please contact:

Virginia Wilson
International Manager
Rongotai College
[email protected]