Avonside is the largest girls’ school in the South Island and located about 10 minutes from the Christchurch city centre beside the banks of the River Avon. The red-brick historic buildings are set in beautiful gardens and have been modernised and include excellent facilities. There are about 1300 girls enrolled including up to 50 International students in Years 9-13.

International students live in homestay with a New Zealand family and either walk or take a bus to school. The grounds include tennis courts, grassed playing fields where students can enjoy sport or recreation. Small ESOL courses are offered at all levels but a student is expected to have a basic level of English before enrolling.

International students join the New Zealand girls for all their other classes, and go to a full English class as soon as possible.

Facilities

The school has modern facilities and there is wireless computer access. All students have access to computers in all builidings and have access at lunchtime and after school and for classes as needed. There is a Library, two Gymnasia, Fitness room, Hall, Drama Room, Laboratories, Language facilities, Technology specialist rooms including Hard Materials workshop, Music rooms, Swimming Pool for summer, Computer rooms

Services

The International Director, Homestay Coordinator, and Administration Staff are at school each day and available to help the students. Deans, Form Teachers, Counsellors, Careers Staff are also available to assist. Airport pickup are arranged at no extra cost, and a Guardian is not compulsory. An emergency phone number is available for parents  and homestay parents 24/7.