The International Department was delighted to host a special morning tea for our Chinese International students in celebration of Chinese New Year and the Lantern Festival.
These important cultural celebrations mark a time of family, reunion, and new beginnings. While many of our students would normally be celebrating at home in China with their families, we wanted to ensure they felt recognised, supported, and connected here at the college.
Our students enjoyed a festive Chinese-themed classroom, decorated to reflect the spirit of the season. They shared dumplings, fruit, and traditional snacks, and most importantly, time with friends. It was wonderful to see students laughing and embracing the opportunity to celebrate their culture together.
We understand that studying overseas can be both exciting and challenging, particularly during important cultural celebrations when students are away from home and family. That is what made this morning tea such a meaningful occasion, with a chance to come together, celebrate culture, and remind our students that they are a valued and important part of our Pakūranga College community.
A very special thank you goes to Kelly An and Mandy Wang, our dedicated Chinese-speaking Homestay Co-ordinators, for their outstanding work in supporting our Chinese students and helping to make this event possible. We were also pleased to be joined by members of our ESOL and Chinese teaching teams. We extend our sincere thanks to all of our teachers for their continued efforts in supporting our Chinese international students both academically and pastorally.
We look forward to many more opportunities to celebrate the international diversity that enriches our school.
“新年快乐” (Xīnnián kuàilè, Happy New Year)
The International Department
