Many of our expat and migrant clients time their arrival in New Zealand for their children to start school at the beginning of the Kiwi academic year in late January/early February.
It’s a stressful time for these families - learning a new education system, adapting to a different classroom culture, and building confidence in a new environment all take time and effort.
Here are some tips from Amy Snow, a highly experienced Kiwi teacher and parent who has taught in both New Zealand and overseas and transitioned her own children in and out of international education systems.
1. Understand the New Zealand Curriculum
Spend some time familiarising yourself with the New Zealand Curriculum. All schools, whether state or private, must align with the New Zealand Curriculum, but they may differ greatly in focus and character. One secondary school may be known for its strong performing arts programme, while another may place greater emphasis on outdoor education or sport. Private schools may also include religious or values-based components.
Understanding this flexibility helps set realistic expectations and explains why schools can feel quite different from one another.
2. Visit Schools Where Possible
Once you have narrowed down where you are likely to live, research the local schools and arrange visits. Being onsite gives both parents and children a valuable sense of the school’s culture.
During visits, take notes and ask questions. Spend time observing classrooms, shared spaces and break times. Watching how students interact and transition between activities can be very revealing.
If your child has specific learning or support needs, ask about the SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator) or learning support team. It is also worth asking about ESOL (English for Speakers of Another Language) support for migrant children, how long it typically lasts, and how progress is reviewed.
3. Keep an Open Mind
Every child learns differently, and what works well for one may not suit another. It is not uncommon for siblings to thrive in very different school environments.
New Zealand state schools can vary significantly, and many are exceptional. When we arrived in New Zealand, we came from a private school British curriculum and were keen to offer our children the same experience in New Zealand. One of our daughters suited a private option but the other suited a more relaxed state school with skiing and outdoor education opportunities.
This approach helps explain why schooling in New Zealand may feel less formal than in other countries. Outdoor learning is common, and many schools place a strong emphasis on learning beyond the classroom. School camps, outdoor education days and excursions are a normal part of the curriculum, even for younger students.
Uniforms or no uniforms, shoes or bare feet, chess club or bull rush at lunchtime – all of these differences are part of the local education landscape.
4. Be Careful with “Best School” Recommendations
School zoning is often highlighted by real estate agents, but a school’s reputation does not always tell the full story. A school that works well for one family may not be the right fit for another.
Before committing to a property, research school zones carefully. Popular schools in some regions operate at capacity, and enrolment processes can be strict, particularly around proof of address and timing.
Doing this homework early can avoid disappointment later.
5. Knowing What to Expect Helps Reduce Stress
Adjusting to a new school can be challenging, especially after an international move. Once enrolment is confirmed, ask whether the school can facilitate an informal meet-up, playdate or introduction to another family. This can help children visualise themselves at school and feel more confident on day one.
In secondary schools, many students are assigned a buddy or peer mentor during their first weeks. It is worth asking how this works.
Other helpful preparation includes practising the journey to school, creating a simple social story with photos, understanding what children typically bring for lunch, and learning how teachers prefer to be addressed. You may hear anything from Mrs Smith to Miss Amy or Whaea Amy.
Discuss with your kids what they will wear on a school day, where they will eat (usually outside, sitting on the ground), how some children will take off their shoes to play, pick up times etc.
A great teacher will connect with your child before they start either with an onsite visit or by phone and this is when you can ask lots of questions.
6. Communicate with Teachers and Use Digital Platforms
New Zealand schools are highly digital. Communication with teachers and schools is usually managed through apps such as Seesaw, Hero or Google Classroom, rather than paper notices.
Parents are encouraged to check these platforms regularly for updates, newsletters, permission slips and learning information.
Do not hesitate to contact your child’s teacher if you have questions or concerns. Email is typically the first point of contact, and responses are usually expected within a few working days. Many issues can be resolved quickly with open communication, and schools value engaged, informed parents.
Relocating internationally is a major transition for children, but with the right preparation and support, starting school in New Zealand can be a positive and confidence-building experience. At Mobile, our advisors work closely with families to help them understand schooling options and feel supported every step of the way.
For many migrants and expats, summer is when everyday New Zealand routines are most visible. It is informal, local and strongly shaped by place.
Kia ora and welcome to New Zealand!
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