Most of our international students at Christ's College live in one of the three boarding Houses, and – like our domestic boarders – are required to have a local caregiver.

Several caregivers have recently shared their experiences, welcoming the opportunity to take on this rewarding role in supporting the success of an international student at College.

As an Old Boy with a Japanese wife, caring for Japanese student Oscar Kobayashi has been a perfect fit for Sam Worsp and his family.

“We've been delighted with the experience of having Oscar spend time with us, and for the chance to reconnect with College,” Sam says. “We’re a sporty family and very food-oriented so it was important for interests to align. Oscar’s love of snowboarding has enabled us to welcome him along on trips into the mountains and our two young boys have enjoyed sharing that experience with him.”

Oscar’s love of good food, easy-going nature, and broad worldview have made the experience enjoyable for all, with the two families connecting both in New Zealand and Japan. Being a caregiver also enables everyone to share in the activities and successes of the international students.

Past parent Marg Dods has been a long-term caregiver for international students, supporting many boys – particularly through rugby and cricket – from a range of countries.

“I have enjoyed this role supporting boys from different countries,” she says. “I act as a conduit between Christ's College and the boys’ families, helping to ease the boys into College and the New Zealand way of life. On arrival, the boys will often stay with us for a few days until they are due to start at College, and, during this time, I help to organise practical matters like their mobile phone provider and New Zealand bank account. The International Department at College will have already booked the student’s uniform appointment and generally sorted any other essential school requirements.”

Marg and other caregivers also support the boys by hosting them on the occasional weekend to provide a change of scenery and home-like environment.

During school holidays, Marg encourages students to travel to different areas of New Zealand or go skiing. College recommends holiday programmes through an accredited provider, and these tours are an excellent way for boys to meet fellow international students from other New Zealand schools.

Checking in with her students regularly, Marg explains “it's like being a regular parent, keeping an eye on their health, co-curricular activities, academic progress, personal development, and, in later years, aspirations after College – generally navigating the teenage years with a friendly ear for guidance”.

“I am in awe at what they achieve a long way from home, often learning English at the same time as having a busy school life.”

Marg says her family has thoroughly enjoyed every student and often becomes friends with their families, hosting them on visits to New Zealand and visiting some in their countries.

“It has given our family a greater appreciation of the diverse world we all share,” she says.

Both John and Charlotte Airey have enjoyed forming a connection with the Syme family from Sacramento, California while being caregivers for Year 11 student Charlie. Kirk and Ashley Syme have visited New Zealand, and Kirk has combined business trips to Australia with seeing his son compete at rowing regattas, including the recent Maadi Regatta where he joined the Aireys to support the College crews.

“We have thoroughly enjoyed being a caregiver for Charlie,” Charlotte says. “It has been very rewarding watching and supporting him at College. We have loved the opportunity to make lifelong connections with both Charlie and his gorgeous family in America. We would highly recommend the opportunity to anyone who is considering a caregiving role.”

When Sri Lankan student Kavya Shukla chose to attend Christ’s College, cricket connections kicked in, and the Gearry family stepped up as caregivers.

“Life tends to be pretty busy so when asked to take on another role, especially that of a caregiver for a teenage boarder at Christ’s College, it may just seem like one thing too many,” Richard Gearry says. “We have links to College through myself and our son being Old Boys, and two teenage daughters at St Margaret’s College. My wife and I both work, so life is very full. Through a good friend, we were approached to be the caregiver for Kavya. The role sounds scary and ominous, but the reality could not be further from the truth.”

Kavya attended College from Years 12–13, seeking a New Zealand education and to develop as a cricket player. While he has moved on to the University of Canterbury, he remains in touch with the Gearry family.

All the caregivers agree on one point – the role is deeply rewarding.

If you want to learn more about being a caregiver and supporting a boy to be at his best, please contact International Student Manager Sarah Davidson at email hidden; JavaScript is required.