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ELS changes for Korean students
The Korean government has announced a ban on after-school English education to first and second graders in elementary school (Years 3 and 4 of New Zealand primary school) as well as English classes at kindergarten (Years 1 and 2 of New Zealand primary school).
The ban for first and second graders will come into effect in March 2018 while the kindergarten ban will take place from 2019.
Kay Kyungah Lee, ENZ’s Senior Market Development Manager – South Korea, explains that the ban is to prevent students from studying English before the third grade, where it becomes part of the curriculum in Korea.
“To get a headstart, many schools offer after-school English courses for first- and second-graders.
“To equalise the competitive education culture, a law banning advanced learning was adopted in 2014. However, after-school English courses remained intact due to strong demand from parents.”
Kay said Korean parents have relied on English being taught during early education for many years. However, with the new ban limiting this option in-country, there could be opportunities for New Zealand providers to benefit.
“This ban is likely to result in an increase in private English education. But when only expensive options are available in Korea, overseas education can be more appealing and have better value for money.
“English language is still regarded as one of the most important skills in the competitive job market in Korea. The level of interest for an effective English education would be high amongst Korean parents.”
Japan and New Zealand celebrate education milestone
Last week, ENZ hosted a reception in Tokyo to celebrate the 20^th and 30^th anniversaries of three Japanese schools’ first New Zealand visits and to thank them for their continued support of New Zealand.
Over the last three decades, the three Japanese schools – Josogakuin Junior High School, Hikarigaokajoshi High School, Tokorozawa Kita High School – have sent more than 4,000 students to New Zealand for academic study and school excursion programmes.
Misa Kitaoka, ENZ’s Senior Market Development Manager – Japan, said the schools shared some fantastic feedback about New Zealand as a study destination.
“The principal of Tokorozawa High School said the importance that New Zealand education places on acquiring future skills and global competency was one of the reasons why it resonated with him as a destination for his school’s study abroad programme,” said Misa.
“His school has also had annual visits to the University of Canterbury and Lincoln University, which he felt was an excellent opportunity for Japanese students to experience New Zealand’s tertiary-level programme.”
The reception opened with a powerful kapa haka performance by local group Nga Hau E Wha, showcasing Māori language and culture.
The New Zealand Ambassador to Japan, Stephen Payton, presented the schools with certificates of appreciation, signed by ENZ Chief Executive Grant McPherson.
Air New Zealand was also on hand for the celebration, gifting plaques and airline tickets to New Zealand for teachers at the schools.
Misa said in the lead up to the 2020 Olympics and Paralympics, hosted by Japan, the Japanese government is accelerating its plans for internationalisation.
“I see a growing opportunity for ENZ to promote the quality of New Zealand’s universities, especially the direct pathway to the Bachelor’s degree programme available for Japanese high school students.”
The Nga Hau E Wha group performs a kapa haka.
Six months in Singapore
The campus at NTU is truly amazing and the facilities are something to behold. I enrolled in classes at Nanyang Business School (NBS) and the school of Humanities and Social Sciences (HSS). While there were a few language barriers initially, I learnt early on that I would need to speak slower – though at times my professors still struggled with my accent.
Outside of classes, I played hockey in the Singaporean National Hockey League, which enabled me to meet new people and stay healthy. I loved getting to know my teammates, although playing in the 40-degree heat with 100% humidity was torturous at times!
My biggest highlight abroad was taking part in FINEX, a financial competition crossed with the amazing race. I teamed up with two other exchange students to undertake finance-related challenges at locations throughout Singapore and we were fortunate enough to finish runners-up! The competition was a great introduction to Singapore and was an excellent opportunity to meet local students and learn more about the Lion City.
Singapore is a diverse, modern, multi-cultural hub of the ASEAN bloc and was an ideal place to become accustomed to Singaporean, Indonesian, Malay, Indian, Chinese, Korean and Japanese practices first-hand. I gained invaluable exposure to a diverse group of people while on exchange. I became close friends with my Chinese roommate and even learned Mandarin from him.
I travelled extensively throughout most of North and Southeast Asia, visiting friends and immersing myself in their different languages and cultures. Being able to experience these environments first-hand was incredible, and I developed a greater appreciation for a wide array of cultures, customs, traditions and etiquettes. It highlighted the need to be tolerant, patient and respectful of distinct ethnicities and their customs – traits that will prove invaluable for me going forward in both my personal and professional endeavours.
"While I learnt a lot about the places I travelled to while abroad, I also learnt a lot about myself."
Bagan Archaeological Zone, Mandalay, Myanmar.

I now feel more comfortable making connections with people from Asia as I have had the opportunity to develop extensive knowledge of the region. Trade and business prospects between New Zealand and ASEAN nations are extremely promising. However, my experience taught me that these economic relationships must be accompanied by education and an adequate understanding of the cultural dynamics underpinning them. It is so important to approach different cultures, traditions and practices with respect and an open mind. If we are able to do that, New Zealand’s relationship with Asian nations will grow remarkably.
While I learnt a lot about the places I travelled to while abroad, I also learnt a lot about myself. I feel my exchange made me more well-rounded and receptive to others and their ideas. I also feel more driven and motivated to get up each day and make a meaningful difference. My experiences abroad made me realise how fortunate we are in New Zealand and the extent to which we can both learn from and give back to our neighbours in Asia.
I cannot express how grateful I am for the opportunities this award has presented me. The PMSA is a tremendous scheme and I am so appreciative for being given such a great head start.
Hugh at The Bund, Shanghai, China.
Cultural exchange in Colombia
In 2017, I led a group of 12 Māori Studies and Māori Visual Arts students to Medellín, Colombia for LatinoAotearoa, a four-week cultural exchange where we shared food, song, dance and other cultural practices with the indigenous students at the University of Antioquia.
The interactive programme involved weekly history lectures about the native peoples and settlement of Latin America, supported by weekly film viewings that gave a deeper insight into the future of Colombia’s indigenous people. Visits to downtown Medellin, including galleries and museums, parks and other public spaces, also helped our student know the city more intimately.
Most of our students are bilingual speaking both English and Te Reo Māori, but after four weeks, all of them gained the confidence to converse comfortably in Spanish too.
In return, Colombian students had the chance to improve their English skills, as well as learn Te Reo Māori. We also shared toi Māori (art), cooking, waiata (song), kapahaka (dance) and mau rākau (Maori weaponry skills) taught partly by our students. Our lecture on the journey of Te Reo Māori was particularly important, as Antioquia University is now in the first stages of introducing Colombian indigenous languages into their own curriculum.
Colombian students gather for a lesson on the mangōpare artistic pattern.

“Learning about different cultures and history, I have a new outlook on life now.”
For New Zealand to successfully develop trade and business relationships we must first understand the history, culture and language of our partners. By immersing our students in Colombian culture, they gained valuable skills that can be used not only in Colombia but in wider Latin America.
We also taught Colombians about how to work in a New Zealand context, understanding the values of Tangata Whenua and how these values influence New Zealand at a diplomatic, cultural, linguistic and trade level.
Many students have already expressed a desire to return to Colombia and to continue learning Spanish. Māori Visual Arts lecturer Israel Birch said one of our Master’s students wants to return and work with the indigenous communities on her PhD project, and a staff member from the University of Antioquia is now looking at moving to Aotearoa to teach.
Without a doubt, this trip contributed to the intellectual and personal growth of all members of the group. We can’t highlight enough how important this partnership has been.
At the end of their journey, students shared what they enjoyed the most:
“Learning about different cultures and history, I have a new outlook on life now.”
“I am grateful for the time I spent here in Colombia. I’ve had the time of my life and I would recommend to everyone who gets the opportunity to take it.”
“I have really enjoyed how much we have been able to engage with everyday Latin American culture. The parceros (language buddies) have made it possible for us to experience social life with Latino friends. I also really enjoyed the history classes and the field trips which showed the history and development of the cities.”
“I hope this scholarship will continue because this experience has enriched my life and I will return to New Zealand sharing how beautiful, strong, resilient and warm Colombians are.”
“I have absolutely loved this trip, it has been a very amazing and humbling experience. I’m so thankful to have been given this opportunity.”

A piece of Aotearoa in Colombia - a mural painted by Massey and Antioquia students.
What's new in IntelliLab
The visa dashboard has a new look, and now uses valid student visas (VSV) as the lead indicator for student numbers, as VSV is less influenced by external factors such as multiple visas for one student. First time student visas (FSV) is the other key indicator, which reveals the number of new students choosing to study in New Zealand.
More in-depth visa information is now available through IVY, the interactive visa tool. IVY is updated monthly, so users will need to download a new copy each month to access the most up-to-date information.
The interactive enrolments tool TED (The Enrolments Data) has also been updated. You may notice revised student numbers when comparing student nationalities by New Zealand region – this is due to the large number of unfunded PTE and ELS students now being assigned to regions based on their provider’s location. However, the top-line numbers, such as total number of students and students by country, remain unchanged.
We appreciate any feedback you may have – please use the ‘contact us’ button on IntelliLab.
US students arrive in New Zealand
Amy Rutherford, ENZ’s Director of Education, North America, said studying in New Zealand will be a life-changing experience for these students, and will hopefully create more Kiwi ambassadors in the US.
“We’re working hard in the US to raise the profile of New Zealand as a high-quality education destination, and authentic stories from students who have studied in New Zealand are a great way to do that,” said Amy.
“We also want to see a more diverse group of US students having overseas experiences, and these scholarships are an excellent first step.”
Taylor Weckstein, one of the recipients of the GSA Awards, is studying at the University of Otago. She chose New Zealand as a way to follow in her grandfather’s tracks – literally. After learning about the great hikes he did in New Zealand many years ago, she wanted to share the experience.
US student Josh Golden, the recipient of the Go Overseas New Zealand scholarship, has also begun his semester at the University of Canterbury. As a marine science major with biology and environmental science minors, he wants to explore the geography and wildlife of New Zealand.
“I am simultaneously excited and nervous. I expect to be mesmerized by New Zealand’s natural beauty and culture. I can’t wait to live as a Kiwi this semester!”
Gilman Scholar Angel Geller has also arrived in New Zealand. Her scholarship came from a partnership between ENZ and the US Department of State, which is aimed at diversifying the kinds of students studying internationally.
Angel will explore Māori culture and tribal politics at the University of Waikato and compare them with her experience growing up with UmonHon, her indigenous tribe in Nebraska.
“I did extensive research to find a host site with indigenous-relevant classes on topics from history to language. The University of Waikato has this, as well as resources on how to connect with community members, and a significant Māori student population who I will have as my peers,” said Angel.
You can follow the study adventures of our Kiwi Ambassadors on the Study in New Zealand Instagram, YouTube and Blog.
For more information on scholarships for US students please contact ENZ’s US team, Amy Rutherford or Alanna Dick.
New assets on the Brand Lab
Want to share scholarship information with your US partners? Visit the Brand Lab and search under "USA" and "Study Abroad" keywords to find two scholarship flyers and education and lifestyle PDFs designed for US students and advisors.
Share your student stories
Do you have interesting student stories or scholarship winners on your campus? ENZ is always looking for student profiles to share through our social and marketing platforms. Please contact Lucy Johnston, ENZ Senior Communications Advisor.
New Zealand education tours Latin America
From 3-20 March, ENZ joined more than 25 New Zealand education providers and 150 agents for the 5^th annual South American Roadshow.
The roadshow kicked off in Bogota, Colombia, with the first New Zealand Ambassador resident in Colombia, HE Lucy Duncan officially opening the New Zealand pavilion at EduExpo.
ENZ’s busy welcome desk at Eduexpo Bogota

Over two days, the pavilion had more than 12,000 visitors and was profiled on national television, proving Colombians’ growing interest in studying in New Zealand. The Bogota agent seminar attracted 120 agents.
For the first time, the roadshow included an agent seminar in Mexico, in response to industry demand to include the Central American country. Some 19 institutions and 24 agents attended, which Javiera Visedo, ENZ’s Senior Market Development Manager Colombia, said was a great start for the new market.
“It was a perfect opportunity to start business connections, and all agents were very pleased to know more about what New Zealand can offer their clients,” she said.

New Zealand Ambassador to Mexico Mark Sinclair at NZ Inc presentation in Mexico City

Brazil was the next stop with a two-day agent seminar attended by 25 institutions and 78 agents from across Brazil followed by involvement in EduExpo Sao Paulo.
Ana Azevedo, ENZ’s Senior Market Development Manager Brazil, said the agent seminar went very well and there were several highlights.
The Agent Seminar session at EduExpo Sao Paulo with New Zealand alumnus Ricardo Mendes speaking.

Also of note was a preview presentation of the 2018 BELTA Market Survey which is co-sponsored by Education New Zealand. Among the results was this figure – 82% of agents interviewed confirmed growth in interest among Brazilian students for study in New Zealand.New Zealand Ambassador to Brazil, Caroline Bilkey, participated in all activities on the first day, and agents and institutions held an impressive 412 meetings over the two days. “The agent seminar had a New Zealand alumni panel with alumni sharing their views on New Zealand education, which was very well received,” said Ana.
“This was extremely pleasing,” Ana said.
The New Zealand Pavilion at EduExpo Sao Paulo attracted 9,717 visitors over the weekend, and institutions were very pleased with the quality of the visitors and are already expecting to grow their current student numbers over the next 18 months.
The roadshow ended in Santiago, Chile with 18 agents (including two from Argentina) and 14 institutions participating in an agent seminar.
At the networking function, Chilean-Kiwi alumni attended as did Peter Chrisp, Chief Executive of New Zealand Trade & Enterprise (NZTE), who was very impressed to hear their stories and to see how proud they are of their time in New Zealand.
Ana and Javiera said the success of the roadshow was due to participation of many NZ Inc colleagues.
“For the first time, an NZ Inc presentation was part of the Agent Seminar, providing key insights to agents and providers of the different approaches and priorities of each New Zealand government entity present in the region.
“In particular, we would like to thank Immigration New Zealand for allowing two immigration officers to participate in the events, providing training sessions to agents and to give advice to students during the fairs.”
New deal will bring over a million New Zealand books to Chinese schools
To bring the books to China, Global Education Systems (GES) is working in partnership with a leading Chinese foreign languages publisher, Foreign Language Teaching Research Publishing (FLTRP).
The series, which includes both hard copy and digital books, will support existing government text books for English language learners in Chinese schools.
“We aim to equip students in China with a burning desire to become life-long readers and writers in English,” said GES Director Tracy Strudley.
“The focus of our material is to engage students with meaningful texts that teach in-depth language comprehension and writing.”
The deal marks the largest print run for an Australasian education publisher to date – totaling 1.632 million books.
The series was developed by author and GES Product Development and Education Director Jill Eggleton QSO. Eggleton was the 2015 recipient of the Storylines Margaret Mahy Medal for lifetime achievement and an outstanding contribution to New Zealand children’s literature and literacy.
“The Key Links series is well designed and follows many of the requirements in the newly released National Curriculum,” said Zhang Lixin, Director of FLTRP’s Basic Education Publishing Division.
Eggleton, Strudley and Steve Jones, NZ Trade Commissioner based in Guangzhou, will travel to Shenzhen on 17 April for the launch of the Key Links series at a foreign language teaching conference. Some 400 administrators and teachers across China will receive training in the Key Links Literacy learning approach ahead of a May release into Henan province schools.
Negotiations between GES and FLTRP began during a trade mission sponsored by Education New Zealand in June 2016.
Education technology is an important, and growing contributor to the trade relationship between China and New Zealand.
INZ student visa processing update
Immigration New Zealand’s (INZ) Palmerston North Area Office (PNAO) is coming out of the peak processing period for onshore student visa applications, with the last of the March visa applications still to be processed.
The standard processing timeframe for a student visa application is 20 working days for an online application, and 25 working days for a paper-based application.
Kimberley Polata, PNAO Head of Operations, said her team is working on applications received within the last 20 days and is committed to clearing these applications by the end of April.
Progress has already been made towards this, with PNAO sending out nearly 1,800 visa decisions in the last week alone, she said
“There are approximately 1,100 visa applications where further documentation or information has been requested from the student, and this is required in order to compete the application.”
Ms Polata asks that education providers check in with their students who are still waiting for their visa decision and ask them to check their email and online applications for communication from INZ.
Prime Minister makes a cameo appearance in Lifeswap episode
ENZ had commissioned episode 10 in the Lifeswap animated series, which sheds light on the lives of (German) Jörg and (Kiwi) Duncan and offers a playful look at the cultural misunderstandings that can crop up when they live and study in each other’s country.
Steffen explaining the many Jacinda mouths he had to animate

The episode has a special cameo from Ms Ardern who voiced a line for the episode. ENZ timed the launch of the episode with her visit to Berlin and nabbed the perfect guest for the launch – none other than Clarke Gayford.
Clarke Gayford chatting to William Connor and Steffen Kreft (slightly hidden) at the Lifeswap launch

To a cinema full of education agents, alumni and German students, Clarke shared anecdotes about studying overseas, Lifeswap creators and filmmakers Steffen Kreft and William Connor discussed their experience of studying in both countries, and ENZ’s Education Marketing Manager Europe, Olga Elli, spoke about the episode’s genesis.
A capacity crowd awaiting the episode to play

Covered in the Tagesspiegel and promoted on Study in New Zealand’s Facebook page (with more than 125,000 views as at 26 April), the animation is striking a chord.
To give the campaign further legs, the episode will be shown in over 70 university cinemas around Germany over the next two months, screening as a trailer before feature films.
Ms Ardern also visited the ENZ offices at the New Zealand Embassy in Berlin and agreed to be photographed with a kiwi soft toy (that lived in Olga’s office) to promote ENZ’s “Follow the Kiwi” scholarship aimed at German, French and Italian high school students.
Ms Ardern gifted this little kiwi to Chancellor Merkel when they met later in the day.