Language Schools

There are many English language schools in New Zealand. The courses usually focus on the English language skills needed to to live and work in NZ (ESOL, English for Speakers of Other Languages) . There are also home tutor schemes where the teacher will come to your home.

Government funding

In the 2004 budget the government increased the level of ESOL funding for students from migrant and refugee backgrounds. These changes are being phased in over 3 years and by 2007 students may be eligible for funding for up to 5 years.

ESOL Funding Levels

Newly arrived migrant students (in their first year in a New Zealand school) will be funded at:

$800 a year at primary level (Years 0 - 6), - i.e. 4 terms at $200

$1,100 at intermediate level (Years 7 and 8) - i.e. 4 terms at $275

$1,400 a year at secondary level (Years 9 -14) - i.e. 4 terms at $350

Students in their second and third years of ESOL funding will be funded at:

$600 a year at primary and intermediate level.

$800 a year at secondary level.

Students from refugee backgrounds will receive funding as follows:

$1,200 a year - i.e. 8 terms at $300 a term in their first two years at primary or intermediate level.

$1,800 a year - i.e. 8 terms at $450 in their first two years at secondary level.

$600 a year in their third, fourth and fifth years at primary and intermediate level.

$800 a year in their third, fourth and fifth years at secondary level.

A five year entitlement to ESOL support has been phased in for all migrant (excluding New Zealand born) students. All migrant, as well as refugee background students, who score below the benchmark on the ESOL/AF will be entitled to receive ESOL funding support for up to 5 years (20 terms).

New Zealand born students (of migrant or refugee parents) are eligible for 3 years (12 terms) funding after their first 2 terms in school. They will be funded at $600 a year.

For more information on Government funding or to make an application for funding please go to www.minedu.govt.nz

Below is a list of Language schools to start looking. Other places to try would be the Citizens Advice Bureau, in the area you live in.