Palmerston North has seven secondary schools that host international students.
The region also has specialist English language provider English Teaching College to support international students as they further develop their English competency.
Palmerston North Boys High School
Palmerston North Boys’ High School is one of New Zealand’s leading secondary schools that develop boys into young men.
The school’s strengths are its culture, inclusivity and outstanding learning environment. International students have freedom of choice in selecting subjects that suit their individual strengths and interests. They are supported with wonderful local homestays and a supportive hostel environment.
International students at Palmy Boys’ High are looked after by a committed International Team. We know our students extremely well and report home to parents via the school’s Parent Portal, email, Zoom or social media. The school develops outstanding young men who can make a positive contribution as global citizens both here in New Zealand and abroad.
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Palmerston North Girls’ High School
Palmerston North Girls’ High School provides an exceptional education that empowers young women to excel academically and grow into confident, independent thinkers. Their supportive and inclusive environment nurtures curiosity, resilience, and leadership.
The tailored international programme ensures students have a rewarding study abroad experience, with access to diverse academic subjects and a wide range of sports, cultural, and extracurricular activities. International students receive outstanding care from our dedicated International Team and carefully selected homestay families, ensuring a safe and welcoming home away from home.
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Freyberg High School
Freyberg High School has built a strong reputation for innovation, creativity, and nurturing well-rounded students who thrive in their chosen paths beyond school.
The proudly co-educational school embraces diversity and celebrates the richness it brings to the community. International students are an integral part of the Freyberg family and are supported by a caring and dedicated team.
To ensure the best experience, all international students are interviewed via Zoom before arrival by our homestay manager, ensuring a great match between students and host families. Our academic dean tailors each student’s timetable based on their interests and goals, providing regular updates to families. Additionally, our outdoor education and Kiwi experience coordinator organises exciting adventures across New Zealand, ensuring a well-rounded and unforgettable experience.
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Longburn Adventist College
Longbun Adventist College (LAC) is a co-educational Christian school offering a values-based education in a supportive, family-oriented environment.
As an integrated school, LAC operates under the Seventh-day Adventist Church, combining faith, education, and service to develop well-rounded individuals.
The College provides a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for international students, ensuring a smooth transition into both school life and New Zealand culture. Our dedicated staff and pastoral care team support students in achieving academic success while developing strong character and lifelong friendships. LAC House, our on-site boarding establishment, sits on beautiful park-life grounds, offering a safe and structured environment. With a strong sense of community, students enjoy modern facilities, caring house parents, and a well-balanced lifestyle that fosters personal growth.
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Queen Elizabeth College
Queen Elizabeth College offers international students the exciting opportunity to learn in a multi-cultural school environment. The co-educational student body includes students from Pasifika, Māori, Asian, South Africa, South America, and New Zealand European families.
Their journey will include academic study and opportunities to participate in cultural events and to join in a variety of sporting activities. Students will also get to learn in smaller classes with individual attention and work towards achieving academic and personal goals to reach their full potential. Student progress is supported by the International Team who report to families via the Parent Portal, emails, newsletters and Zoom.
The school’s host families greatly enjoy the opportunity to welcome young international learners into their homes, to share their family life with them, and to introduce them to New Zealand’s beautiful environment.
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Awatapu College
Awatapu College is a modern high school for students aged 13-19 years. It has attractive, spacious grounds with well-planned buildings and specialised facilities. The college provides a wide range of programmes to ensure that every international student achieves their personal best. To ensure all international students’ learning needs are met, intensive English classes and extensive academic support are provided.
The college excels in visual and performing arts, creativity and technology. Activities outside the classroom in culture, music and sport are also strongly encouraged among the international students.
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St Peters College
As a Year 7-13 Catholic College, St Peter’s College community commit to providing an education within the values of the Catholic Church. We believe that every child has the ability to grow and develop into ‘the best possible version of the person God created them to be.
St Peter’s College community The College’s unique ‘Connect to Succeed’ programme, where every student and parent works with a ‘Learning Coach’. The aim is to improve academic goals and achievement, planning and developing future focus skills.
The college provides a modern flexible learning environment where students develop the ability to think, to work collaboratively, to meet challenges and promote their self-management skills. At St Peter’s College, your child will be well connected to the world that lies beyond the school gates.
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