English Language Training plus Volunteer Work

Develop your English language skills while working in the Christchurch community as volunteers and making friends in a work environment

Students are placed in the Christchurch community as volunteers: caring for the elderly, helping in schools, doing office administration work, or working in retail and gardening.

Although hours may be irregular students enjoy practicing their English and making friends in the community.

Most volunteer work placements require that the student has a police safety check; it is recommended that students complete this before they arrive in New Zealand.

A good level of confidence in English speaking and listening is required.

There are no academic entry requirements for this course. The minimum English Language level for entry to this course is Early Intermediate and Intermediate for IELTS preparation. Exam preparation requires an entry test. You must be at least 17 years of age to apply.

Ara Institute of Canterbury is recognised as one of New Zealand’s leading tertiary institutes. Specialising in applied, vocational and professional training, it offers more than 150 courses from foundation to postgraduate level. 

Ara caters to a diverse range of learners; from school leavers and career changers to professionals wanting to upskill and individuals seeking to re-enter the workforce.

All Ara students benefit from the Ara Advantage: relevant courses, taught by inspirational mentors in real-life learning environments. Almost every Ara programme includes work-integrated learning. Work placements, apprenticeships, industry-based projects and internships ensure students are work-ready when they graduate.

Across its six campuses, Ara’s dedicated tutors and non-academic staff support students throughout their study journey. A comprehensive range of student services - such as financial assistance, learning support, health and wellbeing services, accommodation, childcare and student events – contributes to the success of every student.

It also has six additional small community hubs which deliver free digital upskilling and personal development courses.