My name is Fiona, and I’m a freshman in high school.  When I was just 8 years old (Year 3), my family moved to New Zealand from China.  I took the diagnostic test of the Otamatea Christian School when I first started. I was startled by the fact that I couldn’t even read the term “brother” correctly.  My principal, Mr. Bell, at that time told me that it would take me six months to learn English and a year to be able to speak with others without a language barrier, and sure enough, his predictions were true. 

  For five years at Otamatea Christian School, I learned to comprehend, read, and write and excel in all of them.  I was a top-class student when I entered secondary school (Epsom Girls Grammar School).  My teachers thought highly of the talks and presentations I presented.  Excellent and really engaged, according to my report.  These were all only made possible with the assistance of Mr. and Mrs. Bell.  My foundation was so strong that my Math teacher, English teacher and classmates all inquired as to whether I attended a prestigious school.  They all questioned me about my school’s name. 

  I am very proud to have studied at Otamatea Christian School. The school has helped me adjust to high school successfully. Over the course of my five years at Otamatea Christian School, I also have learned appropriate behaviour and manners.

  My family was significantly helped by the school as well.  My family and I adapted well to life in New Zealand thanks to the principal’s wife and his kind invitations to parties and fishing trips.  My family is really appreciative of what they have done.  I’d like to express my brother Eric’s gratitude on his behalf to Mrs. Bell, the wife of the principal, and Director of International Students. She worked one-on-one with my brother to help him adjust to school life.  She also helped him with social skills while supporting him with a positive outlook.

  Overall, I’m very appreciative of a school that feels like a family.  Please believe that Otamatea Christian School is the start to your dreams and aspirations.

Fiona Yue.