About Us

Dunstan High School has operated an International programme since 1995.  We have between twenty and thirty International students representing many countries at any one time.  Since the quality of the experience for students at Dunstan is important to us we never accept too many students from one country at the same time.

Our Philosophy

Our enthusiasm for this programme is based upon the belief that we all benefit from the diversity International students bring to our school.

We believe that by sharing our language and culture we gain a wider world view and greater tolerance and understanding of different points of view.

Students who learn to communicate in a school setting on a daily basis with people of a different culture, language and faith will take these skills with them into the wider world either when they return to their homes or, in the case of Dunstan students, move into further study, career or travel.

Operating Procedures

The programme is managed by the International Director who with the assistance of the Marketing Director, Executive Officer, Homestay Coordinator and the ESL teacher assists students with all aspects of their stay.

Initial inquiries are passed to the Director who establishes contact with the student or agent.  Once an application is received the enrolement process is handled by the Director and all information and documentation needed for a Visa is sent.

Students are met at the airport by the Director who has worked with the Homestay Coordinator to arrange suitable accommodation.  An Orientation programme is carried out in the first week, at the end of which the student has been assessed for the appropriate level of study and assisted with a course of study.  By then students will also be familiar with the school and will have met and socialized with Dunstan students.

For the remainder of their stay students are in the care of their families and teachers but have access to the Director at all times to discuss concerns and needs.  During this time they will be helped with future planning and given opportunities to explore further study options in New Zealand. 

Apart from many informal meetings the Director meets the students formally each term to discuss reports, academic progress and the homestay.  Parents are sent copies of reports with a letter from the Director.

At the end of their stay, students are delivered to the airport by the Director.