Meet Our Team

Welcome to Whanganui Collegiate International!

In 2024, we are a team of four:

  • Two ESOL teachers delivering English programmes from beginner level to IELTS preparation classes for university entrance.
  • A Director of International Students – responsible for recruitment, Code of Practice compliance and academic tracking.
  • A Pastoral Care Co-ordinator – providing outstanding health and well-being support to our students.

     

From left to right

Mr Poon Wattatham – International Student leader for 2023, Mrs Lucy Trott - International Student Pastoral Co-ordinator, Mrs Sue van Dort – Teacher of ESOL, Ms Rachel Penaluna – Head of ESOL. Mr Alan Richardson – Director of International Students
 

Learning English is the first major challenge for every student joining us from overseas. It allows them to study in mainstream academic classes, and to mix more freely with the New Zealand students. The ESOL team place students into mainstream as soon as they believe that they are ready. Regular testing and team meetings help inform discussions and decision making.

We aim to offer complete peace of mind to our international parents. We have very high expectations for our students helped by small class sizes which allows us to monitor progress very closely. We maintain regular contact with parents and agents and understand the importance of responding to concerns quickly and professionally. Academic tracking is done weekly, and any concerns reported as soon as possible.

As we are a genuine 7-day boarding school, our students are engaged not only during the week but also at the weekend. We have campus-wide wireless internet making it easy to keep in touch with family back home. We have an International Student Leader who represents the interests of our overseas students and arranges fun activities throughout the school year.

The International Team looks forward to welcoming your son or daughter to our multi-cultural campus and we encourage you to take a look at the movies on the website and to check out the School’s Facebook page to see just how busy and engaged our students are.

Introducing our 2024 Student Leaders

We are delighted to announce that Bambam Boolong and Pasit Torsuwan will be our Student Leaders this year. Bambam has been at WCS for four years in Godwin House and is from Bangkok, Thailand. Pasit has been at WCS for four years in Harvey House and is also from Bangkok, Thailand.

They will be supporting both new and returning international students this year. He will help organise activities and excursions throughout 2024.