International Students

Outside main entranceVerdon College is a co-educational Catholic school which provides excellence in teaching and learning to International students aged from twelve years to eighteen years from a vast array of countries. It offers excellent academic opportunities and a rich sporting and cultural life. Students are expected to participate fully in all aspects of school life so they can develop their talents in all areas.

The school is located in Invercargill City in the province of Southland. International students love the natural beauty of Southland, the clean water, fresh air, spectacular scenery and friendly people.

The Director of International Students is Paul Olsen, and he is in charge of the pastoral care of all international students.

The airport is only eight minutes from the city centre and a one hour flight from Christchurch International Airport. We meet all our students on arrival.

Feldwick GatesOur city is known for its hospitality and friendliness. The city centre is modern, attractive and has excellent shopping, easy access to public transport, entertainment and outdoor activities. It is a flat spacious city and has beautiful parks, gardens and beaches.

Homestay

International Students live with a carefully selected New Zealand family in their home. Close contact is maintained with the host families and regular contact is made with parties to ensure that the students are settled.

International Students benefit greatly by staying in a family homestay. Homestay families are friendly and enjoy having a student from another country join their family.

Our Staff

We have dedicated, qualified staff who organise homestay activities at least once a term, provide 24 hour access to a Verdon College staff member and closely monitor each students programme.

The Director is responsible for the students’ welfare and progress. The language teacher provides specialist tuition in English (ESOL, IELTS, TOFEL). The International teacher’s assistant coordinates homestays and the integration of students into school classes.

Facilities

LibraryVerdon College is located in 8 hectares of landscaped grounds. It is a modern school with extremely well equipped, modern classrooms and the following facilities:

Verdon College prepares International Students for entry to New Zealand universities and other tertiary institutions. It offers a wide range of courses and prepares all students for the National Certificate of Educational Achievement at all levels. Our International Students achieve impressive results in the national examinations.

Fees

The annual tuition fee is NZ$11000. This includes the attendance dues (an annual fee of NZ$500 for all students) plus uniform costs and special IELT lessons if needed.

Homestay fees are $200 per week.

Places to visit in Southland

Invercargill is very close to many of New Zealand’s top tourist attractions: