English Language Matters Ltd

English Language Matters Limited is a unique private language school which lives its motto "each learner matters", meeting the needs of individual students through high quality, flexible learning modules in a tastefully appointed environment. Located in the heart of Dunedin, it is a short walk to classy cafes and restaurants, the Dunedin Public Art Gallery and Dunedin Public Library, cinemas, shops and other small art galleries.

English Language Matters Limited was founded in January of 2002 by the Principal, Sharron Verberne Heazlewood teaching two students. By the end of the following year, eight teachers worked with Sharron, teaching over 200 students as the reputation for its excellent education grew. Sharron's long history of success in the teaching of English as a Second Language, both abroad and in New Zealand, has brought together this team of dedicated, highly qualified teachers which has enabled students to produce outstanding results. It has become a gateway to the University of Otago, other tertiary institutions and Univeristies,and high schools, as well as a channel for students to integrate into society and enter the workforce. The establishment of this school is the fulfillment of a lifelong dream for Sharron. You are invited to share in her vision of success by becoming part of this family.

The school is located in the heart of the city in a modern eight-storey building and occupies the second floor.

The Immigration Department is on the sixth floor, making visa applications a stress-free experience. In a school where each learner is important, the school is well equipped and there is attention paid to individual needs. Therefore, there is a room set aside for quiet times, for prayer and for quiet study. Good quality coffee and tea are served at break times, and birthdays are celebrated as a school. The maximum class size is twelve students, and teachers are always on hand to listen, and offer advice if wanted. Through a philosophy that everyone must feel included, everyone is encouraged to speak English and accelerated learning takes place in this positive environment.

You are assessed before beginning your course, and enter at one of the five levels offered. Entry is on any Monday and teachers meet weekly to discuss students' progress so that you will move to the next level as soon as you are ready. You choose how long you would like to study and how many hours per day. There are morning, afternoon and evening classes. An orientation around Dunedin is given in the first week to make you familiar with your new community, and help is given where necessary so that you feel at home as soon as possible.

We encourage students to stay with our carefully selected New Zealand homestay families, but other residential accommodation options are also available.