Kāpiti College’s doors are always open

Theirs is an opportunities-focused approach, combined with strong ‘say yes, and work it out later’ attitude. Steve’s the first to admit it’s an approach that doesn’t suit everyone but, for now, it’s one that’s working for them.

This open and proactive way of working has seen them develop an array of innovative teaching methods and programmes to the benefit of both local and visiting students, including those with learning disabilities.

Interesting aspects and benefits of Kāpiti College’s programme include:

International class

Kāpiti College’s innovative approach to international education puts a strong emphasis on internationalising the Kiwi students, with a specialised ‘international’ class bring trialled this year.  This Year 10 class sees Kiwi students learn social studies and English through an international lens and learn the basics of Mandarin and Thai language. International students join the class as they arrive during the year.

There is some competition to get into this class, with those who are successful being given the opportunity to travel to China and Thailand later in the year.

One such student, Max Ross, was awarded a scholarship to spend three and a half weeks at Pibulwitthayalai School in Thailand. Steve Burt visited Thailand a short time later to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the school, formalising the partnership between the schools and creating the foundation for a long-term engagement.

Pathways

Other education providers in the region also reap the rewards of Kāpiti’s successful international programme, with many Kāpiti College students choosing to remain in the area and enrol with them.

The aviation programme offered by the school in conjunction with Kāpiti Air Academy has proved just the hook to entice one of Kāpiti College’s international students to further his education in New Zealand.

The school also offers academies for golf, swimming, basketball and rugby.

Special programmes

The flexible and open approach of Kāpiti College’s international team has seen them host foreign students with dyslexia and other learning challenges. The smaller class sizes and specialist teaching ensures these students aren’t left behind and they feel welcomed by their peers and the staff.

Community engagement

Kāpiti College’s programme is supported by a strong homestay community. This creates a real sense of welcome for the students and brings about a strong understanding within the community as a whole of the value of international education.

The broad reach of the school’s engagement with the wider community has seen them build a strong relationship with a local Chinese real estate agent who acts as a willing ambassador for the college’s education programmes on her visits to China.

Offshore government engagement

Paul and Steve have worked at making good connections at a government level too, with the Thai Ambassador to New Zealand, H.E. Maris Sangiampongsa, recently visiting Kāpiti College and praising their achievements in teaching Thai language and culture. The Ambassador also invited the families of the 17 College students soon to travel to Thailand to visit The Royal Thai Embassy in Wellington where he will provide them with an orientation programme.

The future looks bright for Kāpiti College’s ongoing success in it international programme but there’s one thing Steve is only too aware of: “We can’t take things for granted. It’s important to keep our eye on the ball as far as the student experience goes, as well as maintaining regular and meaningful contact with offshore stakeholders.”

H.E. Mr. Maris Sangiampongsa, Ambassador of Thailand to New Zealand meets with Kāpiti College’s International Thai Students