Aquinas College is a new, Catholic co-educational school for 11-18 year olds. The College is vibrant and visually impressive, with superb facilities and high academic standards. International Students thrive in our supportive community atmosphere. We accept a very limited number from each country so they can fully immerse into school life and form quality friendships with New Zealanders.
Aquinas College is situated in Tauranga, New Zealand’s fastest growing city located in the sunny Bay of Plenty region. Only two and a half hours drive south-east of Auckland, Tauranga attracts many visitors throughout the summer months because of its warm climate & the popular surf beach of nearby Mount Maunganui.
The College was founded in 2003. Set on 1.7 hectares of park-like grounds, it has very modern buildings and a well designed site to accommodate the ongoing growth in student numbers. Future plans are in place for a new classroom block, auditorium, cafeteria and swimming pool, following the recent completion of the expansive ‘Action Centre’ Gymnasium.
International Students receive specialised ESOL tuition and are expected to participate in all aspects of the mainstream NCEA curriculum. The ESOL curriculum includes participation in the NZ Speech examinations and IELTS examinations are offered to more advanced speakers of English as a second language. Religious studies are taken at each level of the school.
We offer a wide range of sports, music and cultural activities to extend all students and help them reach their full potential. A school Musical Production takes place every two years which involves large numbers of students in performance, costume & set design. Every Aquinas student participates in the school Service Project which provides rewarding opportunities to spend voluntary time working in the wider Tauranga community.
A special feature of Aquinas College is the values-based philosophy and close-knit atmosphere of the school. This is evident through the six key ‘touchstones’ – Scholarship, Family, Truth, Service, Prayer and Joy. As an inclusive school, we welcome international students from non-catholic backgrounds. All students are expected to be open-minded to the catholic character of Aquinas College as this is one of the key strengths that helps make our school community special and unique.
Annual fees for international students are $13,500. This includes a first-time enrolment fee & an administration fee for student support services throughout the year. It also covers tuition costs and text books. Items not included in the annual fee are: uniforms, stationery, subject field trips, examination fees and extracurricular activities such as music or sports fees and associated trips.
The Dean of International Students works closely with each individual to ensure they are well cared for and supported in all aspects of school and home life. International students are hosted by genuine kiwi families and can rely on caring Aquinas staff to closely monitor them throughout the year. Typical local families enjoy a fun, outdoor lifestyle often based around the beach over summer. Homestay Fees cost $210 per week with an initial $250 establishment fee.
Enrolment forms and procedure details are available from the school on request. Please address all correspondence to: The Dean of International Students, Aquinas College, 183 Pyes Pa Road, RD3, Tauranga 3173.
Email:
Contact Person: Melissa Gillingham
Telephone: +64 7 543 9038
Address: 183 Pyes Pa Road, Tauranga, , New Zealand
