The Aquinas Way
Personal Approach
Accepting just a small number of International Students each year allows us to get to know each individual personally. We establish a care and learning programme for each student based on their goals and needs. Our qualified staff go out of their way to ensure students are happy, healthy and meeting their potential. And our friendly, family-like environment is one where students feel safe, supported and cared for while they rise to the challenge of schoolwork and adjusting to a new culture or language.
Our School
Aquinas has 750 students ranging in age from 11 to 18. The year levels are 7 to 13. The school has a diverse mix of students, including international students from Germany, China, Brazil, Korea, Japan and Vietnam. These students are welcomed into our college community and quickly form lasting friendships with their NZ classmates.
International Students are supported by a pastoral care Dean (the Director of International Students) and an academic Dean (the student’s year-level Dean). They, together with the Assistant Principal for Pastoral Care, our two Guidance Counsellors, and Mentor Teachers, ensure students are surrounded by staff who have their best interests at heart.
Catholic Character
Aquinas College is a state-integrated, co-educational intermediate and secondary college with a Special Catholic Character. This means our International Students are surrounded by staff and pupils living and acting according to Gospel values. All year levels take part in Religious Education classes as an additional subject to the timetable. In our faith-based college, students experience what it means to be truly valued for their own unique gifts and talents, and are supported to grow and become what God intends them to be. It is not a requirement for International Students to be Catholic.
Behaviour
We have high expectations for how students behave while part of our school family. This ensures every student has a safe, happy and productive learning experience.
Students are encouraged to live according to the Aquinas Touchstone values of Family, Scholarship, Truth, Service, Prayer and Joy.
Safety
The health and safety of our students is paramount. Consent from parents is obtained for all overnight stays and outdoor activities considered high-risk.