WAIRARAPA COLLEGE - 2017 International Students Information on Enrolment Handbook

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WAIRARAPA COLLEGE - 2017 International Students Information on Enrolment Handbook
WAIRARAPA COLLEGE

(

       International Students

      Information on Enrolment

            Handbook 1

              2017
WAIRARAPA COLLEGE - 2017 International Students Information on Enrolment Handbook
Welcome to Wairarapa College!

Wairarapa College (WaiCol)
WaiCol is the largest state secondary school in the Wairarapa valley, with well over 1700 students.
It is also the oldest, established in 1937, and has a proud history of educational, sporting and
cultural excellence. It is co-educational with students from Year 9-13 (about 13 to 19 years old.)
Our vision is to provide a “Thriving student-centred learning environment, educating student for
their future.”

The school has many grand old buildings, beautiful trees and spacious grounds. It is equipped with
modern facilities including many specialist rooms for science, art, technology, computers,
computers, music, graphics and design. The school and hostel (Poto College House) is 10 minutes
walk from town and 15 minute walk from the train station. Some rural students travel on a free
school bus service.

The School Day
In NZ students change classrooms at the end of the lesson, so they need to be prepared for
changes in weather as they walk between classroom blocks.

Students start class at 8.35 and finish at 3.05 with a 20 minute break in the morning and 50 minute
lunch hour. There is a form period in the morning called Group Time and 15 minutes SSR
(Sustained Silent Reading) after lunch each day.

The subject choice booklet and information about NCEA and University Entrance (UE) can be
accessed by following the link on the front page of the school web-site www.waicol.co.nz. We
endeavour to place all International students in the courses of their choice and often have
students working at a range of different levels.

All students wear a uniform (see full uniform details in Uniform, Policies and Procedures
Handbook 2).

CODE OF BEHAVIOUR

This code is based on respect for self, respect for others and respect for property. We agree to
follow the following LEAD values:

                               LEARN WITH PURPOSE
                               Rise above challenges
                     L         Use your time wisely
                               Be motivated to reach your potential
                               ENGAGE WITH PRIDE
                     E         Take pride in yourself and your school
                               Be proud of your achievements
Honour your commitments
                                 ACT WITH RESPECT
                                 Contribute positively and be inclusive
                     A           Be polite and treat others equally
                                 Take responsibility for your actions
                                 DARE TO SUCCEED
                                 Have the courage to succeed
                     D           Make the most of your opportunities
                                 Aim high

Failure to respect these values may result in your enrolment being terminated with no refund of
fees.

                 Tuition and Living Costs at Wairarapa College
The Tuition fee is NZ $12,259 for a four term year. The tuition fee includes all tuition costs,
ESOL tuition and textbook loan. The college magazine is given free of charge to international
students at the end of the year, but a postage fee may be charged if the student has left before the
magazine (yearbook) is available.
It does not include
   •   Some workbook costs (course dependent)
   •   Take-home components for courses like Hospitality and Resistant Materials (Woodwork and
       Metalwork)
   •   Student ID card
   •   School camps and field trips
   •   National qualification and examination
   •   Uniform
   •   Calculators
   •   Stationery
   •   Registration fees for some sports

Homestay Administration and Pastoral Care fee is NZ$250 per year
This fee covers the cost of finding and inspecting the homestay, supervising the homestay or home
of the designated caregiver if the student is under 18 years of age, and arranging a move if there is a
valid reason. If a student moves a second time in any given year an additional charge of $200 will
be made to cover costs to the college.

Homestay payments to host families are NZ$250 per week
If a student is in a homestay arranged by the college it is required that the college hold homestay
funds for that student and administer these, as legally we have an understanding which equates to a
form of contract with the homestay families and have responsibility to ensure payment. Unused
homestay funds will be refunded less any outstanding debts. [Refer to full policy in attached
appendices]

Poto College House Boarding Hostel Full 7 day a week boarding         $15,462 (incl 6 weeks
                                                                       holiday homestay)
                                          5 Day a week plus weekend and holiday homestay
                                                                       $15, 82
The Boarding Hostel provides a safe, family-like home for local students who live in the rural areas,
and also welcomes international students. Students can choose 5 day a week boarding, with a
homestay family for the weekend, or 7 days full boarding. Homestay accommodation will be
arranged by the International Dean for the holiday breaks (3 periods of 2 weeks @ $250 per week)
as well as long weekends when the Hostel closes (no extra charge).
Option 1: 7 day per

‘Unicare NZ Student Plan’ insurance will cost approximately NZ$5780 per year.
Under the Code of Practice, international students must have appropriate and current medical and
travel insurance while studying in New Zealand. This can be purchased through the school. It is
recommended that if a student returns to the home country over the holiday period, cover should be
held for this time also.

For students with an insurance policy purchased in their country of origin, a copy of which must be
given to the college, the Board of Trustees will guarantee fees protection in the event that the
overseas programme cannot continue.

                                          SUMMARY of Costs
Tuition Fees                                             $12, 250
Homestay fees                                            $250 per week x 45 = $11,250
OR Hostel fees:
7 day board                                              $13,962.50 including gst
5 day board +weekend homestay                            $14,320

Holiday homestay                                         $250 per week x 6 = $1,500
Medical and activity fee                                 $50

Homestay placement fee                                   $250
Administration fee                                       $500
Airport transfer fee                                     $140 (per transfer)
Insurance (est)                                          $580
Uniform (approx.)                                        $500
Stationery (approx.)                                     $185
Living expenses (approx., not charged by the school)     $3,500
Estimated total                                          $68,307- $71,00

Note that the Living Expenses sum will be enough to cover additional course costs, sport and
school camps if selected.
All fees are quoted in NZ dollars and may include a NZ Government goods and services tax (GST)
at the rate of 15%. If the GST increases, we reserve the right to increase our fees accordingly.
Parents are expected to pay one year in advance. If an exemption is requested, this must be made
directly to the Principal.
In addition to the above costs are Examination Fees, should the student be attempting NCEA
(National Certificates of Educational Achievement), the NZ qualification system of standards-based
assessment. NCEA is administered by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority
(www.nzqa.govt.nz)

Fees are as follows: (these are per year for school years 11,12 and 13 – called NCEA level 1,2 & 3)

Fee structure for foreign fee paying students
Entry                                                               Fee
NQF candidates greater than 48 credits – unlimited entry            $383.30 per candidate
Up to 48 NQF credits or credit equivalents (2 subjects in SFC(t))   $200 per candidate
or fewer
Scholarship subject entry                                     $102.20 per subject

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

ENROLMENT PROCEDURES FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

1       The international student completes the enrolment form and supplies details
        relating to school record (translated copy of the latest school results) and English
        language ability. The enrolment form is found on the web-site or sent on application to the
        Dean of International Students jogilvie@waicol.nz

2       An invoice is issued comprising tuition fees, homestay/hostel fees, administration fees,
        insurance (if requested), airport transfer fees, Medical/Activities fees (hostel only)

3       Once the above payment is made, a receipt and offer of place is issued. These documents
        are to be retained by the student and used in the application for a Visa/permit (refer to
        NZIS website: http://www.immigration.govt.nz

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS ENTRY CRITERIA

Wairarapa College accepts students at Year 9-13 level
Wairarapa College seeks to recruit students who have had some English language
skills. Language development and support is available through the ESOL subject line (4 classes per
week).
1. It is important that students have a genuine desire to learn and they must have a
     good record of attendance and behaviour at their previous school. An interview may be
     required.
2. Students must be willing to abide by Wairarapa College’s rules as they apply to
     international students.
3. School reports and testimonials should accompany an application to study.
4. Wairarapa College reserves the right to place the student in appropriate courses based on the
     student’s competency in English.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Years 9 and 10                       English language placement test
NCEA Level 1 - Year 11               English language and Mathematics placement tests
NCEA Level 2 - Year 12               Placement tests in Mathematics and subjects selected by
                                     student
NCEA Level 3 - Year 13               Placement tests in Mathematics and subjects selected by the
                                     student.

General information
Wairarapa College’s commitment to international students :
Wairarapa College has agreed to observe and be bound by the Code of Practice of the Pastoral
Care of International Students published by the Ministry of Education, New Zealand. Copies of the
Code are available on request from Wairarapa College or from the NZQA website at
www.nzqa.govt.nz/providers-partners/caring-for-international-students/
See more information below

Accommodation
Some of our students live with a homestay family; others live with a relative, or in Poto College
House. This is what to expect from a homestay –

You will be placed with a family which will be matched as closely as possible to your requirements
on the application form which you complete. Your homestay will be within a 20 minute bus
journey of the school.
Your host family will provide you with your own room and make you feel part of their family. They
will provide you with a cooked dinner in the evening and will make sure that food is available for
your breakfast and lunch. In most New Zealand families, breakfast consists of toast or cereal which
you can prepare for yourself. If you have any strong likes or dislikes let your family know. You
might want to go shopping with your family to show them what you like.
Your host family will provide you with unlimited Wifi access. There should be no extra charge for
this. Tell your Dean if there is.
Most New Zealand households have pets, usually a cat and often a dog. Pets are often allowed
inside the house.
If you are unhappy with your homestay, you must discuss this with the Dean, who may arrange a
change in family.
This is what to expect in College house:
The Boarding experience at Poto College House helps to create fantastic bonds with fellow
boarders and House Parents. We pride ourselves on having a fun and family orientated
atmosphere with structured daily routines and a strong emphasis on Prep time.
Each week day evening there are always planned activities and time set aside for Prep which is a
focussed time for homework given from the day. Seniors are encouraged to use this time wisely in
their dorms, while juniors are all together in the dining room, but every year group is supervised
throughout this time and must be signed off at the end of their session. Tutors are also provided
on various days of the week to help students who need an extra helping hand in their subjects.
From your time at Poto College House you can expect to grow your level of independence and
self-awareness as we encourage students to take personal responsibility. We always ensure that
students leave with a strong sense of belonging and fond memories of their time with Poto College
House.

Getting to school
Most students walk or ride to school. For students who live some distance from town, the bus is
usually free.
Here less than a year or in a homestay? You are not permitted to drive cars.
Otherwise, to own/drive a car you must get written permission from your parents, have a full New
Zealand driving licence and full car insurance. See more information at www.drivesafe.org.nz
Bikes
You may bike to school but you must wear a helmet at all times. You will also need to show us you
understand the NZ road rules.
Things to do in Masterton
   • Masterton is the biggest town in a rural area. There is a town swimming pool, movie
       theatre, skate-park, fast food chains, parks, sports grounds and clubs, as well as an all-
       weather athletics track. Two golf courses are within 10 minutes’ drive from the school and
       it is very cheap to learn to play (tuition and equipment is provided.) You are likely to make
       friends with students who live on farms and many international students get the
       opportunity to visit the rural areas.
   • Beautiful native forests are 15 minutes drive from town for tramping and hiking and there
       are surf and fishing beaches under an hour from town.
   • Boutique shopping is available, along with a range of cafes, in the historic village of
       Greytown, 20 minutes drive from Masterton.
   • A reliable train service connects us to the capital city of Wellington, which is a safe and
       exciting place to explore (see links below). Many international students go there to find
       restaurants which serve their local dishes, or to visit the large shopping malls, as well as
       visiting museums and other attractions.
   • Major festivals such as music and bands or Wings over the Wairarapa (a bi-ennial air-show)
       are drawcards to the region, as are local agricultural shows, horse events and a balloon
       festival. There is even a day of horse racing along the stunning Castlepoint Beach!

For more information go to: http://www.newzealand.com/in/plan/business/destination-
wairarapa/

Things to do in Wellington
Wellington is a compact, safe, clean, green city with lovely beaches and lots to do. Many
Wairarapa students visit the capital city often, or the neighbouring Upper Hutt city. For more
information see http://wellington.govt.nz/about-wellington/what-to-do and
http://wellington.govt.nz/recreation/enjoy-the-outdoors/walks-and-walkways and
http://wellington.govt.nz/recreation/get-active-indoors/asb-sports-centre/programmes-and-
activities

What do things cost in Masterton?
Movie $11.00
Bowl of Noodles and Meat $6.50
McDonalds burger $3.00 to $6.00
Pre-pay Sim card $19.00/month
Do take care of your money and belongings – don’t carry large amounts of cash and always make
sure you can see your bag, both at school and in town.

Food in the region
International students often miss the food they are used to at home. It is good to talk to your
homestay family about this and perhaps go shopping with them to show them some of the foods
you like. Moore Wilson stocks many Asian and Mediterranean foods in Masterton and there are
lots of specialised supermarkets and food shops in Wellington to help you feel less homesick.
There are excellent cafes and bakeries, a sushi shop, Thai and Chinese food as well as Indian and
French restaurants.
Try out https://yellow.co.nz/y/yans-supermarket, http://www.afspecialist.co.nz/
http://www.labellaitalia.co.nz/bel-mondo-international-food-market and
https://nearbynz.com/pages/the-original-german-bakery-kilbirnie/46574
https://moorewilsons.co.nz/

Can I work if I’m a student?
You are eligible for part time work only if you are in Year 12 or above, aged 16 and are in New
Zealand for more than a year. Immigration New Zealand allows you to work up to 20 hours a week
in term time and full time in the school holidays. Wairarapa College recommends you do not work
more than 10 hours a week during term time. New Zealand law says that the minimum wage for a
person aged 16 and over is $15.25 per hour. https://employment.govt.nz/starting-
employment/rights-and-responsibilities/minimum-rights-of-employees/ and
https://employment.govt.nz/assets/Uploads/tools-and-resources/publications/minimum-
employment-rights-and-responsibilities-chinese-traditional.pdf

 Doctors and Dentists
 If you are sick, you and your host family need to arrange to see their family doctor (GP).
If you want to see a doctor who speaks your own language, we may be able to arrange this in
Wellington. We can usually arrange for a local interpreter if necessary.

Do not go to the hospital unless you have had a bad accident or you have a medical emergency.
The international staff will also recommend a dentist if needed. Many students wait and go in
their home country when they are back there or on holiday.

Insurance
All international students must have medical and travel insurance which the school can arrange. If
you and your parents arrange your own insurance, the school must have a copy translated into
English. This can be purchased through the school and will cost approximately $580 per year,
arranged through ‘Unicare NZ Student Plan.

What clothes to bring?
Masterton usually has a hot dry summer, up to 30°C. The best weather is in October to April. In
the winter there are often frosts and occasionally there is snow, but it rarely settles on the ground.
Frosty mornings can be around 3°C but the temperature will rise during the days to sit around
10°C-16°C.
www.metservice.com/towns-cities/masterton

Safety in Masterton
In Masterton people are usually friendly and helpful – just ask if you need help.
You do need to be careful around water and in the sun. New Zealand has many beaches, lakes and
rivers for you to enjoy. However, you need to take care as they can be dangerous. Never swim
alone, swim between the lifeguard flags on the beach and never dive into the water when you
don’t know how deep it is. See more information http://www.watersafety.org.nz/resources-and-
safety-tips/
New Zealand’s sun is very strong. To avoid skin damage and possible cancer you need to wear a
sunhat, use sun-screen and cover up between 10am and 4pm during the summer. See more
information www.sunsmart.org.nz

The Law and Students
Police in New Zealand are there to help you – it is safe to talk to them. Three important laws you
should understand –
•   The drinking age is 18 years and over. No drinking before that.
   •   Using and dealing any drugs is illegal
   •   The age of consent for sex is 16
   •   You must not drive with anyone who is on their Restricted licence. As you cannot begin
       the process of getting your licence until you are 16, most year 12 and 13 students are still
       on their Restricted Licence, which means they must not drive with anyone in the car who
       does not hold a Full Licence. If in doubt, DO NOT GET IN THE CAR!

Embassies in Wellington
Wellington has more than 40 countries’ embassies represented. Some of the most useful ones are
below
http://www.chinaembassy.org.nz/eng/
http://www.nz.emb-japan.go.jp/itprtop_en/index.html
http://www.vietnamembassy-newzealand.org/en/
http://www.wellington.diplo.de/
http://wellington.itamaraty.gov.br/pt-br/
http://chile.gob.cl/nueva-zelandia/en/
www.thaiembassy.org/wellington

Pathways to future study in Masterton, Wellington and beyond
While you are a student at WaiCol, the International Dean and the Careers Adviser will be helping
you to plan your future study, making sure you are taking the right subjects and working towards
University Entrance.
Masterton has a Polytechnic and an Agricultural Training school (Taratahi). Wellington has two
universities, two polytechnics, a cooking school and various private training schools. Many of our
students go onto these institutions.
https://www.careers.govt.nz/ is a good website to look at.

Student Refunds
   § If students withdraw from a course in our International Programme they may be eligible
      for a refund of tuition fees.
   § Refunds must be applied for in writing by either the student’s parent(s) or agent stating the
      reasons for withdrawal. Any refunds will be paid directly to either of these applicants.
   § Students who cancel their enrolment before they arrive in New Zealand may apply for a
      refund of tuition fees.
   § Students in the school will not be given a refund unless they withdraw from the
      programme for special family reasons.
   § Any refund of tuition fees will have all school expenses deducted – MoE levy, agent
      commission, relevant cost of committed staff and resources and GST.
   § There will be no tuition fees refunds:
   § after the mid point of a course,
   § if a student transfers to another school
   § if a student is expelled or excluded.
   § Any unused accommodation or pocket money will be refunded in full to the student when
      this request is made in writing. For amounts in excess of NZ$500.00, the school will request
      the authorization of parent or agent.
Code Of Practice 2016
All international students enrolled with a New Zealand education provider are covered by the New
Zealand Government’s Education (Pastoral Care of International Students) Code of Practice.
This is legislation that outlines the level of care that education providers, and their agents, must
provide to international students while they live and study in New Zealand.
The education system is regulated with strong quality assurance systems across the board.

In general, as an international student you can expect that:
    § the quality of teaching and learning you receive will meet high educational standards
    § the marketing and promotion information you receive before you enrol is clear, complete
       and accurate so you can make a well-informed decision about whether an education
       provider is the right choice for you
    § education providers’ agents give you reliable information and act with integrity and
       professionalism
    § you will receive enough information and support to help you with your enrolment,
       including understanding the legal obligations you have, and that you will receive all the
       proper documentation
    § you are welcomed and have enough information, guidance and support to help you settle
       into your new life in New Zealand
    § your study environment is safe, and that you have a safe place to live

About the Education (Pastoral Care of International Students) Code of Practice
The New Zealand Government’s Education (Pastoral Care of International Students) Code of
Practice is a document that clearly outlines the full legal requirements that education providers
enrolling international students must abide by – to read this, go to the NZQA website.

If you have a complaint about our practices or procedures, the Uniform, Policies and Procedures
Handbook 2 contains information about the first steps in settling a dispute.
If you feel your problem has not been solved you can contact the New Zealand Qualifications
Authority (NZQA) 0800 697 296 or email qadrisk@nzqa.govt.nz.
Or, if it is a financial or contractual dispute, you can contact iStudent Complaints 0800 00 66 75.
More information is available on the iStudent Complaints web-site:
http://www.istudetn.org.nz/istudent-complaints
Your international dean will provide a translated brochure relating to this complaints procedure.

About NZQA
NZQA is a government organisation which manages the quality of New Zealand qualifications, and
also acts as the Administrator of the Education (Pastoral Care of International Students) Code of
Practice.
www.nzqa.govt.nz

Accident insurance
The Accident Compensation Corporation provides accident insurance for all New Zealand citizens,
residents and temporary visitors to New Zealand, but you may still be liable for all other medical
and related costs. Further information can be viewed on the ACC website at http://www.acc.co.n
Immigration
Full details of visa and permit requirements, advice on rights to employment in New Zealand while
studying, and reporting requirements are available through New Zealand Immigration Service, and
can be viewed on their website at http//www.immigration.govt.nz
Prospective students must obtain a valid visa to travel to New Zealand and a permit to study in
New Zealand before commencing studies at Wairarapa College

Fees protection policy
Wairarapa College is a state-funded school. However, under the terms of the Code of Practice, it is
compulsory that all International students are covered by fees protection insurance. This is
included in the comprehensive medical and travel insurance that is required for students wishing
to enrol at this college. For students with an insurance policy purchased in their country of origin,
a copy of which must be given to the college, the Board of Trustees will guarantee fees protection
in the event that the overseas programme cannot continue.

Privacy Act
The information collected by the College during the enrolment process and during the period in
which the student is enrolled at the College is intended for use in connection with the education
and well-being of the student and may be used by any of the staff of the College or consultant to
the College in connection with that purpose. You have right of access to and correction of the
personal information collected by the College.

Governing law
This contract shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of New Zealand.

    Details about correct uniform, as well the details of our specific policies, can be found in the
                                   accompanying booklet called

                                  Uniform, Policies and Procedures
                                            Handbook 2
You can also read