Victoria University of Wellington Pathways Foundation celebrates one year anniversary

Staff from ACG Education and Victoria University of Wellington gathered at the ACG Pathways campus at Wellington’s historic Railway Building, Bunny Street, to celebrate the one-year anniversary of the launch of the Victoria University of Wellington Certificate in Foundation Studies, delivered on behalf of the University by ACG Education.

MC for the evening was Deputy Principal Bryce Pederson and guests included representatives from Wellington Regional Economic Development Agency (WREDA) and Education New Zealand.

Professor Rawinia Higgins, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Maori) and Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor (Engagement), delivered the official welcome and a powerful message of partnership between ACG and the University, likening the relationship to two sets of waka, “stronger and stable bound together as we face the challenges of the future.”

ACG Education CEO John Williams remarked on the growth of the programme and the diverse body of students enrolling since launch in January 2017:

“A total of 126 students studied with us last year, and these students came from 24 different countries. All of them chose to travel an extraordinary distance from their home countries in order to pursue their tertiary studies here in Wellington. These students’ commitment is a further confirmation of the recent QS rankings of Victoria University’s strong and growing reputation in the international arena as a globally ranked capital city university.”

Victoria’s Vice Chancellor Professor Grant Guilford emphasised the pivotal role that international students play in the future of New Zealand. “Their talent and intellect enhance our world,” he said. “I look forward to welcoming more of these exceptional young people to the university in the coming year.”

ACG Pathways alumnus Daryl Neo Kit who completed the programme in 2017 and was awarded a $5,000 study scholarship for his top academic achievements spoke proudly of his achievements since attending the programme.

“ACG Pathways gave me the opportunity to change my path and achieve success after a poor performance in my final year at school in Singapore. The help and support I received from the teachers and staff at ACG have helped me achieve my dream of attending Victoria University of Wellington. I am excited about my future.”

During the event a number of Pathways students showcased their work and spoke to guests about their experiences on the programme and their plans for future study at Victoria across many subject areas including Media and Linguistics, Economics and Finance, Design and Humanities.  The guests were impressed with the commitment and enthusiasm of the students.

Victoria University of Wellington Foundation Studies Programme is delivered by ACG Education, offering a guaranteed pathway to University on successful completion. With 4 intakes per year and Fast Track (2 terms) Standard (3 terms) and Standard Plus (4 terms) of study duration available, students study core English and 4 compulsory core subjects to prepare them for University study.

Photograph supplied by the International Office, Victoria University of Wellington.