There are 440 secondary schools throughout New Zealand. Although the largest schools have around 2000 students the average school size is about 1000 students. Private Schools Privately owned and operated schools where all students are required to pay tuition fees. A portion of the teachers salaries is paid by the Government. These schools are also known as Independent Schools.
All schools can accept international students and have their own international student policies.
Students in Year 12 will normally complete their school year around 22 November. It is recommended students enter school at the beginning of the year however it is possible for students to begin their studies at any time during the year up to September or October. After this date the focus is on school examinations and it is more appropriate for the student to attend an English Language programme until January the following year and then begin school. There is also the long summer holiday in December and January when it is best for a student to be at English School or return home for the holiday. National Examinations are held from around 22 November to 6 December each year for students in Year 11 and Year 13.