Educational Institutions
Villa Maria College
Villa Maria College was established in 1918 by the Sisters of Mercy as a Catholic school for girls and is committed to the education and empowerment of young women. It has a long history and students gain a sense of belonging to a very important community. Values are important.
Christchurch - Canterbury
Christchurch is the main centre of the Canterbury region, an elegant old city close to the Southern Alps.
Location and Facilities
The College is set in beautiful grounds and has up-to-date facilities. It has three fully equipped computer suites, a Library Information and Resource Centre, a new Arts blockand modern technology facilities. The auditorium and gymnasium were opened in 1998. There are tennis/netball courts, hockey/soccer fields and an outdoorswimming pool.
Academic Programme
All students are encouraged to strive for excellence and ournational examination results always exceed the national average. Subjects on offer are:
- Arts: Music, Drama, Design, Painting, Sculpture, Art History and Classics.
- Languages: English, French, German, Japanese, Latin, Te Reo Maori and ESOL.
- Technology: Text and Information Management, Food Tech, Materials Tech and Computing at all levels.
- Full courses are also available in: Mathematics, Science and Commerce
Students participate in national and international competitions.
Extra Curricular Programme
There are around 30 sports clubs on offer. Students also participate in music (both instrumental and choral), drama, theatre sports and public speaking. Villa Maria College runs a number of student exchange programmes and welcomes contact with students from all cultural and ethnic backgrounds.
English Entry Requirements and Language Support
Students are required to have Intermediate Level language skills to cope with mainstream classes. All international students are tested on arrival for language proficiency and individual language support programmes are provided. ESOL is four hours per week.
Student Welfare
A high priority is given to the welfare of international students and Villa Maria College strives to create a family-like atmosphere.The Director of International Students, her assistantand a Homestay Co-ordinator oversee the girls' pastoral and curriculum care. Together with the ESOL teachers they ensure that each student enters the College smoothly. All staff are committed to creating a supportive atmosphere for students. An entry requirement to the College is that students have a guardian.
Accommodation and Fees 2008
Full board accommodation with homestay families can be arranged for approx. NZ$190 per week.
The annual tuition fee is NZ$12,500 (incl. GST) plus a non-refundable $150administrationfee for the first year. Uniform and external examination fees are an additional cost.
Please note we have a limited number of places availableat junior levels.
Contact
Angela Craw
Director of International Students
