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Campus Life & Activities

What is student life like in Ōtautahi Christchurch? Here is what you can look forward to!

Campus Life & Activities

Discover Aotearoa New Zealand by choosing Ōtautahi Christchurch. This dynamic city is known as the ‘Gateway to the South Island’, and you can enjoy a wide range of social, cultural, and sporting activities, shopping, museums, galleries, and outdoor adventures such as skiing and surfing.

Here are some more reasons you should consider studying in Christchurch:

Christchurch has a vibrant cultural scene with numerous art galleries, theatres, and music venues. Immerse yourself in live performances, exhibitions, and cultural events showcasing both local and international talent.

From trendy cafes and bustling markets to fine dining restaurants, Christchurch offers a diverse culinary landscape. Treat yourself to a variety of cuisines while exploring the city’s culinary hotspots.

Surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, Christchurch is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. Explore nearby hiking trails, enjoy picnics in scenic parks, or why not try something new? Adrenaline-pumping activities include bungee jumping and skydiving!

Despite being a city, Christchurch maintains a strong sense of community, making it an ideal place for students to forge meaningful connections and friendships. With welcoming locals and supportive networks, students can feel right at home in this inclusive environment.

Christchurch offers a range of student-friendly amenities, including affordable accommodation options, convenient transportation networks, and access to essential services such as healthcare and shopping centres.

With a diverse population comprising people from various cultural backgrounds, Christchurch celebrates multiculturalism through festivals, events, and community initiatives.

Beyond language schools, Christchurch is home to reputable educational institutions offering a wide range of academic programmes. Students can pursue further studies in fields ranging from arts and sciences to business and technology.

Known for its low crime rates and friendly atmosphere, Christchurch provides a safe and welcoming environment for students to live and study. Whether exploring the city independently or participating in organised activities, you can feel secure in your surroundings.

Why CCEL?

CCEL is a Category 1 English language school in partnership with the University of Canterbury (UC), located on the university campus in Christchurch. Over the past 30 years, CCEL has established itself as one of New Zealand’s most successful English language schools. Part of the world-leading group, Navitas, students have the opportunity to continue their studies at our sister institute, UC International College (UCIC), and our university partner, the University of Canterbury.

  • Facilities and Activities at CCEL

    CCEL is located on the University of Canterbury (UC) campus. Students are part of the university campus community and have access to UC facilities such as cafeterias and libraries. Additionally, CCEL offers an exciting activities programme with a great variety of after-school activities, including free weekly Conversation Club and free weekly sports. You can also enjoy a range of other activities in and around Christchurch, such as surfing, dance classes, skiing, winery tours, and weekend trips to Queenstown, Kaikōura, Nelson, and the West Coast!

  • Courses Available at CCEL

    CCEL offers a range of English courses including General English, English for Academic Purposes (EAP), and Exam Preparation. Successful completion of EAP 1 enables students to progress on a direct pathway into UC International College (UCIC). CCEL’s EAP 2 pathway course is exclusively recognised by the University of Canterbury, and successful completion demonstrates English language proficiency (without IELTS) for UC undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.

  • The Style of Teaching and Classroom Environment

    Our teachers hold specific English language teaching qualifications as required by English New Zealand. Our teaching style is engaging and dynamic and teachers are passionate about helping students improve their English inside and outside of the classroom, often joining in student activities and interacting with students outside of class.

  • Accommodation Options for International Students

    CCEL offers carefully selected host families who are welcoming to overseas students. Many host families live within 2 kilometres of CCEL, allowing students to walk to and from school each day. Additionally, students can choose to stay in university residences (subject to availability).

“Since the first day the staff have been very nice with me. My teacher is helping me a lot to improve my English. My classmates are so friendly. We have a lot of fun here, not only studying. I feel so happy at CCEL. I recommend you to come here.”

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