Best Start
to High School in New Zealand
Best Start Programme
COURSE OVERVIEW
This course is designed to prepare international students—particularly those new to New Zealand—for a successful transition into high school. It focuses on building English proficiency, communication confidence, and effective learning strategies needed in a New Zealand classroom environment.
Best Start : Graduate Profile Outcomes
What you will learn
Communication Skills
- Asking questions in class
- Making inquiries and requests
- Giving opinions and responding appropriately
- Agreeing and disagreeing respectfully
- Offering help, making suggestions, and apologising
Academic Skills
- Understanding English meta-language (how English works in learning contexts)
- Developing vocabulary management strategies (e.g., vocabulary books)
- Writing effectively and responding to feedback
- Improving reading speed and comprehension
- Building consistent reading habits
Listening & Cultural Adaptation
- Understanding the New Zealand accent
- Practising listening through targeted exercises
- Gaining confidence in real-life communication situations
Listening
- Developing self-study habits
- Becoming a more efficient and autonomous learner
- Learning how to engage proactively in class
A bit More Information
What is Best Start ?
This course is designed to prepare international students—particularly those new to New Zealand—for a successful transition into high school. It focuses on building English proficiency, communication confidence, and effective learning strategies needed in a New Zealand classroom environment.
Target Students
- Young international students (especially those from non-English-speaking backgrounds)
- Students preparing to enter high school in New Zealand
- Learners who may feel shy or lack confidence in English-speaking environments
Course Objectives
By the end of the programme, students will be able to:
- Communicate more confidently in English in academic and social settings
- Actively participate in classroom discussions and interactions
- Apply independent study techniques to support learning
- Adapt to different teaching styles and cultural expectations
- Build confidence engaging with peers, teachers, and host families
Entry Requirements
Admission Requirements for the Best Start Programme:
- The applicant’s first language is not English.
- The applicant must be at least 14 years old.
Canterbury College English Test
Before the start of the course you will be required to complete Canterbury College English Test for us to better understand your level of English.