Intensive English (PCP)
The Pembroke Connect Program (PCP) prepares recently arrived international students for study at Pembroke School.
This acclaimed program is designed to help students build strong foundations in English language proficiency and confidently settle into life at Pembroke.
Specific to our Middle School, the course enables students to fully embrace our learning and caring culture by enhancing skills in reading, writing, listening and speaking, while also deepening their understanding of Australian culture and the education system.
Overview
Who is the PCP for?
The PCP is available to international students applying for entry in Years 7 to 10 who require additional English preparation before joining mainstream classes.
What do students learn in the PCP?
- An overview of the Australian education system
- Cultural comparisons including Australian politics, democracy, multiculturalism, sports culture and social behaviours
- Australian, South Australian and Indigenous history
- How to access pastoral care support and academic resources at Pembroke
Life at Pembroke
A True Pembroke Experience
Students in the PCP fully participate in life at Pembroke, including by:
- Belonging to a House
- Attending Home Group meetings, House meetings, assemblies, excursions and camps
- Joining the many co-curricular activities such as Sport, Music and Clubs and Societies
- Being able to enrol in individual instrumental Music lessons
- Undertaking some subjects with their mainstream cohort, often including Mathematics and broader curriculum-based subjects such as Physical Education and Art
The structure of the PCP within the greater learning and caring context at Pembroke differs for each student based on their year level. This gives PCP students increased opportunities to connect with their peers and make friends within the cohort, ready for their progression into full-time mainstream study.
Personalised Learning and Support
- Following the submission of an application for admission, students are interviewed by our Coordinator of International Students, English as an Additional Language (EAL) and Homestay, either in person or via video call.
- Students must provide two past school reports, results from any English assessment undertaken and other relevant documentation.
- Based on the interview and documents, a customised study duration within the PCP will be recommended before transitioning into mainstream classes.
- Each student’s progress is closely monitored with regular reports provided to parents and caregivers at the end of each term.
- The Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA) Language and Literacy Levels are used for assessment in the PCP to establish the Standard Australian English development required to meet the increasing demands of the Australian Curriculum across the years of schooling, ensuring students are classroom-ready for mainstream curriculum.
Additional Information
- For students applying for a student visa (visa 500), time in the PCP is undertaken as part of their Years 7 – 10 course. This is included as part of their Confirmation of Enrolment.
- There is no requirement for students accepted at Pembroke to complete an English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS) course prior to commencement.
- Students can commence in Boarding at the same time as the PCP, subject to the Admissions process.
- When completing the application for admission, families should nominate their earliest possible commencement date including time in the PCP.
- The cost of participation in the PCP is included in tuition fees; no additional payment is necessary.
- A commencement appointment with the Coordinator of International Students, EAL and Homestay is available to families when the enrolment is confirmed more than 12 months in advance of commencement. These appointments are coordinated by the Admissions Department.
- While the PCP is specifically for international students in Years 7 to 10, we also provide support with English as an Additional Language (EAL) across our Junior, Middle and Senior Schools.
Proud Old Scholars
My time within the Pembroke Connect Program was a highlight, and I will always cherish the skills and friendships that continue to shape my academic and personal journey.
— Lucas Jin (2023)
Our Vision
Free to be ourselves and find our place as we shape a hopeful future.
Pembroke’s story began in 1974 when two single-sex schools united behind the power of co-education.
Our unique learning and caring culture fosters equality of opportunity for all, making us stronger together.