Overview

The ESOL rugby programme has been in existence since 2002. As each intake passes through the College the programme is refined and improved.

The ESOL group train as a separate group during the school day but practice with College teams when the school day ends. The key components of the programme are as follow:

Duration: 22 weeks, commencing in March and finishing in August.
ESOL: 12 hours per week with a specialist ESOL teacher.
Accommodation: The boys live in one of the College dormitories.
Home Stay: The boys spend time with New Zealand families and experience life in a typical kiwi home.
Meals: The group becomes part of the boarding school and all meals are taken in the College dining room.
Training: All boys train extensively throughout their stay and are monitored throughout by our trained staff.
Playing: Each boy plays for a College team that matches his age and playing ability.

Rugby at St Bede’s College is a popular sport. Each season 14 teams play in local competitions and our 1st XV was ranked third in New Zealand in 2008. We have 4 fullsized fields and a modern gymnasium and these facilities are fully utilised. In addition to these benefits Christchurch is the home base for the Crusaders Super 14 team and the Canterbury Rugby Union is recognised as one of the best in New Zealand. The ESOL boys will have the opportunity to watch the Crusaders in action and will also receive coaching from Canterbury coaching staff.

For more information or to enrol, contact ESOL Rugby Director.