Last weekend we said goodbye to a group of 15 students from Thailand who have been integrating into classes with their Kiwi Buddies and joining in on our school's ESOL classes. 

The group arrived during the school holidays and has been with us at Waitākere College for 3 weeks.
During their stay, they spent their time at Waitākere College practising their English, learning about New Zealand and Maori culture, going sightseeing, mixing with students and practising their debating skills, all while living with some local homestay families.
They were joined by one of their teachers from their school back home in Thailand who also took part in the student's classes and lived with one of our local homestay families. 

The students have really enjoyed their time here and have loved being able to join in on some of the classes with their Kiwi Buddies, who have done an amazing job of helping them to settle in and feel comfortable at our school.
The group have done a lot to improve their English skills and will be able to cherish the special memories and experiences they have had in New Zealand for the rest of their lives. 

Friday 12th May was their last day at school and we farewelled the Thai students with a shared lunch and performance in the hall.
The Thai group presented us with some Thai dances and singing performances which were followed up by some outstanding performances from our Samoan and Kapa haka groups. 

Big shout out to Maddison Meredith who sang for us and blew everyone away with her amazing voice!
A big thank you to all of our international students, kiwi buddies, staff and homestay families who have looked after them so well.