Language

Advantages of Oxford for ESOL students
Often overseas students can read and write quite well in English but lack confidence in oral language. A rural school like Oxford Area School with its small class sizes and family atmosphere is an excellent place to achieve language proficiency. The students are completely immersed in the English language of their home stay and school environments. This allows the students to apply their knowledge naturally in many different situations.

English Language assistance
At school the international students receive appropriate English Language (ESOL) assistance according to needs established through initial and on-going testing by qualified staff. Care is taken with placement and course selection to ensure that our students experience success and progress according to their needs. Close liaison is maintained with Deans, teachers, families and agents/guardians. Many families visit the school at the time of enrolment. Students attend an orientation programme at the beginning of their studies and are introduced to the school and to the community.

ESOL programme
Oxford Area School's English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) department aims to assist its students to adjust to their home and school lives as effortlessly as possible. Each student arrives in New Zealand with different language knowledge and abilities. The department has specialised individual programs to support each student's learning both in and out of the classroom.
This may take the form of:

• one-to-one English lessons
• small group lessons
• support teaching within a subject class
• outings to local places e.g. the post office, supermarket etc.

Initial testing usually takes place approximately two weeks after arrival. New Students are placed in an appropriate level of ESOL class. Testing throughout the year ensures that each student’s individual language needs are met. The ESOL class runs concurrently with mainstream integration.

Where appropriate and requested, assistance is given to enable students to sit Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and/or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) examinations .
Qualified and trained staff build positive working relationships with students.