Welcome to
Our International Programme
Te Kura Tuarua o Pūtaringamotu
Our school roll of approximately 1000 students enables us to give them all the individual care and attention they deserve. So they have the opportunity to reach their full potential in a caring, people-centered, yet academically rigorous environment – all while experiencing everything that New Zealand has to offer.
The school prides itself on the focus it puts on character building, through our values of Kairangi (excellence), Maaakitanga (respect), Ngāhaupono (honesty), and Manawanui (commitment). Our school celebrates a high number of successes each year with academic results above national averages and a large number of our students representing the school, our province, and our country in a wide variety of cultural, sporting, and musical endeavours.
Our international programme aims to develop well-rounded students who leave our school having experienced all that a New Zealand lifestyle has to offer, as well as what Riccarton can offer them both inside and outside of the classroom.
What we offer
Curriculum
Our curriculum enables specialisation at the senior level and provides excellent access to information technology-enhanced learning. This is complemented by a comprehensive careers advice programme, with university (or other tertiary) study pathway opportunities.
At the senior level, students work towards NCEA (National Certificate of Educational Achievement). This can be completed in one to three years depending on the student’s age, educational experience in their home country, and English language ability.
Have a look at our Student Learning section for more information. Our innovative style of teaching and learning extends outside the classroom. We are very fortunate to have our own outdoor education facility (Orohaki) situated at Glentui in North Canterbury – and our international students organise an overnight camp there each year.
Our English language department is the largest in a Christchurch school and can cater for beginners right through to advanced university preparation programmes. Riccarton High School does not require a minimum English level – any student can enrol.
Extra-curricular Activities
In addition to academic subjects, Riccarton High School offers a full range of extra-curricular activities. A huge range of cultural, performing arts, music, drama and sporting opportunities are available, including a ski and snowboard club which runs ski trips in the Canterbury region once a week during winter.
Be sure to ask us about your extra-curricular interests and we will do our best to organise access to these.
Have a look at our Student Life section for more information.
Students coming to us for study/tourism purposes, and for those not sitting NCEA exams, Riccarton High School’s international department provides a fantastic activity programme twice a year which is free of charge for our students. Activities include beach trips, city tours, adventure sports, Hanmer Springs resort, farm shows, surfing and a four-day tour of the South Island in term four.
We warmly invite you to take advantage of all that Riccarton High School has to offer you.