FAQ

Where is WISEL?

WISEL is in Warkworth, just a 40 minute drive north of Auckland City.  Warkworth is a small town famous for its village atmosphere, its access to beautiful beaches and tourist activities.

How long will it take for me to improve my English?

This depends on each student.  Our courses and activities are designed to help you improve your English in a classroom and practical environment.  Our classes are divided into six levels, from beginners, elementary, pre-intermediate, Intermediate, Upper Intermediate, and Advanced.  Generally a student, who studies well, can expect to improve their English from Beginners to Upper Intermediate in 40 weeks of study. 

Any time you spend at WISEL will improve your English, but if you want to make a good improvement to your English, you should plan to spend at least eight weeks at WISEL.

Where will I live when I am at WISEL?

We encourage our students to make use of our homestays at WISEL.  In a homestay, you will be live with a New Zealand family in their home, and be a part of the family.  This will give you the opportunity to improve your English in a real New Zealand environment.

Do I need a student visa?

If you want to study for more than three months, you may need a student visa, depending on which country you come from.  Check with the New Zealand Immigration Service at www.immigration.govt.nz, where you can find out if you need a visa to study in New Zealand.

What happens when I arrive at the airport in Auckland? 

We will arrange to have a staff member of the School to meet you at Auckland airport when you get off your plane.  We will then drive you to your homestay in Warkworth and introduce you to your family.

How big is WISEL?

WISEL is a small, friendly school, with small classes designed to help you to improve your English.  During your time at the School you will get to know other students and staff well.

How do I know what level of English I should study?

On your first day at the School, you will sit a placement test with one of our teachers, who will assess your current level of English.  You will then be placed in a class where you are able to learn with other students at a similar level.  Your teacher will regularly assess your progress in class and talk through with you if you need to go up to a higher level.

How do I know if my English is improving?

Every two weeks, you will receive a report from your teacher on your progress in your language skills.  If you wish, you can sit an IELTS examination to assess your language skills.

What level of English do I need to study at University?

Different universities and different courses of study have different English language requirements.  The IELTS examination is recognised by all New Zealand universities.  Depending on the course you study, and which University you plan to attend, you will need an IELTS score of between 5.5 and 7.0 to enrol in your preferred course at University.

What skills do my teachers have?

All of the teachers at WISEL are native English speakers, have a lot of experience, qualifications, and a passion to teach English.  They are here at WISEL to help you improve your English.

Can I use my laptop at the School?

Yes.  We have free wifi internet access throughout the School for student use.

I have special food needs.  Will my homestay be able to accommodate this?

Yes.  We educate homestay families to ensure they understand the different cultural needs of our students.  We educate our homestay families to be sensitive towards food and religious requirements, including halal and vegetarian food customs.

Can WISEL support me or other family members who want a chaperone?

Yes.  We welcome students who need other family members to travel and accompany them.  We have a range of accommodation options if you need to be chaperoned while in New Zealand.