CCEL, rated Category 1 by NZQA, is a private English language school working in partnership with the University of Canterbury (UC) in Christchurch. Located on the university campus in purpose-built facilities, CCEL has established itself as one of New Zealand’s most successful English language schools over the last 30 years.
Part of the world-leading group Navitas, students have the opportunity to experience a range of courses including pathways to our sister institute, UC International College (UCIC), and our university partner, the University of Canterbury.
Facilities and activities available at CCEL
Within CCEL’s building we have 20 classrooms, and students are part of the university campus community so have access to both CCEL’s and UC’s facilities such as cafeterias and libraries.
An exciting activities programme offers students a great variety of after school activities, including the free weekly Conversation Club and free weekly sports. Other activities include surfing, dance classes, skiing, cooking, dinner and movie nights, winery tours and weekend trips to Queenstown, Kaikōura, Nelson and the West Coast.
Courses available at CCEL
CCEL has on average 200 students per week, from all over the world, studying a range of English language courses including General English, English for Academic Purposes (EAP) and Exam Preparation. Study Group Tours are also provided, including as part of the relationships CCEL has with many overseas education institutions.
General English is focused on real-world English and practical communication skills, developing vocabulary, grammar, reading, writing, listening and speaking. English for Academic Purposes (EAP) is focused on academic English and the skills required for successful further study where English is the language of delivery.
As the University of Canterbury’s official English language provider, CCEL’s EAP 2 course provides a direct entry pathway (without IELTS) into UC programmes after successful completion at the required undergraduate or post-graduate level.
EAP also prepares students for their studies at UC International College (UCIC), and students prepare for and take an NZQA-approved internationally recognised English language test to pathway into UCIC.
The style of teaching and classroom environment
CCEL teachers hold specific TESOL qualifications and have a wealth of teaching experience in New Zealand and overseas. Our teaching style is engaging and dynamic and teachers are passionate about helping students improve their English inside and outside of the classroom. Our teachers regularly join in student activities and interact with students outside of the classroom.
Accommodation options for international students
CCEL has a large number of carefully selected caring host families that understand the needs of international students coming to study English in New Zealand. Many of our host families live within 2 kilometres of CCEL and students can walk to and from school each day.
Our students can also choose to stay in the university residences (subject to availability).
A rich student experience
Christchurch is the ‘Gateway to the South Island’. Students can choose from a wide range of social, cultural and sporting activities in our vibrant city and travel easily to other parts of the South Island and New Zealand. Ski fields are only 90 minutes from the city and surfing is popular at many of the city beaches. Christchurch is also home to perhaps one of the world’s most famous regional rugby clubs – The Crusaders.
Join us at CCEL for your English language study abroad experience in New Zealand – your best STARTS here.
- General English, full-time and part-time
- Exam preparation including IELTS
- English for Academic Purposes (EAP) – Pathway to the University of Canterbury and UCIC
- Study Abroad Group Programmes
- On campus location
- 20 classrooms
- Fully equipped self-study centre
- Access to the UC facilities (libraries, cafes and student lounge)
- Free Wifi
- Japan
- China
- Thailand
- South Korea
- Taiwan
- Chile
- Brazil
- Colombia
University of Canterbury
Solway Ave and Dovedale Ave
Ilam
Christchurch
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Since the first day the staff have been very nice with me. My teacher, he helping me a lot to improve my English. My classmates they are so friendly. We have a lot of fun here not only study. I feel so happy at CCEL. I recommend you to come here.
- Daniela
- Chile