The New Zealand Code of Practice for the Pastoral Care of International Students 

Introduction

When students from other countries come to study in New Zealand, it is important that those students are well informed, safe, and properly cared for. New Zealand educational providers have an important responsibility for international students’ welfare. 

This section provides an overview of the “Code of Practice for the Pastoral Care of International Students” (the Code), and provides a procedure that students can follow if they have concerns about their treatment by a New Zealand educational provider or agent of a provider.

What is The Code?

The Code is a document which provides a framework for service delivery by educational providers and their agents to international students. The Code sets out the minimum standards of advice and care that are expected of educational providers with respect to international students. The Code applies to pastoral care and provision of information only, and not to academic standards. 

When does the Code apply?

The Code commenced on 31 March 2002. Educational providers then had six months to sign the Code. You need to check with the Ministry of Education to see if your provider is a signatory to the Code. 

Who does the code apply to?

The Code applies to all education providers in New Zealand with students enrolled on international study permits. The Code is mandatory to these providers and must be signed by them. 

What is an International Student?

An “international student” is a foreign student studying in New Zealand on a student permit from the New Zealand Immigration Service.

How can I get a copy of the Code? 

You can request a copy of the Code from your New Zealand educational provider. The Code is also available online from www.minedu.govt.nz/goto/international. 

In-school support and conditions for international students 

• The International Coordinator will be the first point of contact if an International Student faces difficulties adapting to his/her new cultural environment. 

• If you, as parents or authorised guardians of your child, have concerns about any aspect of your child’s schooling, please follow the procedures outlined in the school’s policy on ‘Concerns’. 

• If you have concerns about a breach of the Code, advocacy procedures are outlined in the Summary of the Code of Practice for the Pastoral Care of International Students (Included with the information provided). 

• As part of the enrolment procedures, office staff will establish communication arrangements with you should an emergency arise. 

• If school personnel are concerned that your child has been, or is likely to be ill-treated, harmed, abused or neglected we are obliged to notify the Oranga Tamariki or the New Zealand Police and follow the reporting protocol (‘Breaking the Cycle’). 

• The Education Rules 1999 (stand-down, suspension, exclusion and expulsion) apply to all students, including international students enrolled at Paparoa Street School, and these rules must be complied with.