Bangkok--10 Jun--Baldwin Boyle Group
From 1 July this year, international students studying in New Zealand are set to benefit from stronger rules aimed at making sure they get the care and support they need.
New Zealand's Code of Practice for the Pastoral Care of International Students sets standards both inside and outside the classroom that education providers who enrol international students must follow, and outlines the services that students can expect from their chosen study provider.
The new code will further strengthen the care of international students in the country and ensure New Zealand remains a world leader in the care of international students.
Peter Bull, General Manager, International, Education New Zealand (ENZ) welcomed the introduction of the new code of practice.
"This is welcome news for both international students already studying in New Zealand and for prospective students thinking about furthering their education journey here. Not only does it set the standards of care that education providers need to provide but this new code also highlights the importance that New Zealand places on international students having a positive study experience," he said.
A new disputes resolution scheme will also come into effect on 1 July 2016, which will provide a faster and more effective forum for resolving any contract and financial disagreements between students and providers.
The number of international students choosing to study in New Zealand continues to grow. Each year more than 110,000 international students were studying in New Zealand, including more than 3,600 from Thailand.
Studies show international students in New Zealand have a very positive experience. Satisfaction rates of students surveyed by the International Student Barometer (ISB) in 2014 and 2015 ranged from 88% - 94% as being satisfied or very satisfied with their overall experience at their New Zealand institution.
New Zealand offers a high-quality learning experience, great lifestyle opportunities and qualifications that provide skills for the future.
"We're pleased students and their parents from Thailand who choose New Zealand as an education destination can be confident that their wellbeing is a top priority." Mr Bull concluded.
• More information can be found on the Ministry of Education website.
• Rt Hon Steven Joyce, Minister for Tertiary Education, Skills and Employment announced the new code: https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/new-code-practice-international-education-providers