Pastoral Care

NZQA Code of Practice for the Pastoral Care of International Students

Whitecliffe is fully committed to the well-being and support of our international students. As an accredited education provider in New Zealand, we adhere to the Education (Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Learners) Code of Practice 2021, commonly referred to as the NZQA Code of Practice. This Code outlines the responsibilities of education providers in ensuring the safety, well-being, and successful academic and personal development of international students.

1. What is the NZQA Code of Practice?

The NZQA Code of Practice sets the standards for educational institutions in New Zealand regarding the care and support provided to international students. The Code ensures that students receive high-quality pastoral care throughout their time in New Zealand. It covers:

• Information Provision: Ensuring that students and their families have access to accurate and comprehensive information before and after arrival in New Zealand.
• Student Support Services: Providing adequate support services, including orientation programs, academic guidance, and access to health and counselling services.
• Safety and Well-being: Promoting a safe and supportive environment both on and off-campus, with clear procedures for handling emergencies and grievances.
• Student Voice: Encouraging students to participate in decision-making processes that affect their experience and well-being.

2. Whitecliffe’s Commitment to Pastoral Care

At Whitecliffe, we take our obligations under the Code of Practice seriously. We are dedicated to:

• Orientation Programs: Offering comprehensive orientation sessions to help you settle into life at Whitecliffe and in New Zealand, covering essential information about your studies, health and safety, and living in New Zealand.
• Academic Support: Providing personalized academic support through tutors, advisors, and additional resources to help you succeed in your studies.
• Health and Well-being Services: Ensuring access to health care, counselling, and other services that support your physical and mental well-being.
• Safety and Security: Maintaining a safe learning environment with clear policies and procedures to handle emergencies and student concerns.

3. Your Rights as an International Student

As an international student in New Zealand, you have the right to:

• Receive accurate and timely information about your course, living arrangements, and support services.
• Be treated fairly and with respect by your education provider and those involved in your education.
• Access health and counselling services when needed.
• Live in accommodation that meets New Zealand standards of safety and comfort.
• Have your concerns addressed promptly and effectively by your institution.

4. Reporting a Concern

If you feel that Whitecliffe or any other education provider is not meeting the standards of the Code, you have the right to raise a concern. In the first instance, you should contact our International Student Support team at international@whitecliffe.ac.nz.

If your concern is not resolved, you can escalate it to the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA), which oversees compliance with the Code of Practice.

For more information, please visit the NZQA website or contact them directly.

5. Learn More About the Code

You can read the full Code of Practice for the Pastoral Care of International Students on the NZQA website.

This guide is designed to inform international students about their rights and the support available to them under the NZQA Code of Practice.