SPBC is committed to fostering a culture of care and support, with learners placed at the centre of all planning and activity.
This environment nurtures strong, collaborative relationships from the outset of study, enabling staff and students to form meaningful and lasting connections.
The college takes pride in offering a loving, holistic, and supportive learning experience for all students.
We value each student as a unique individual and are committed to supporting them in the development of their God-given gifts and calling.
Our Student Wellbeing Plan outlines the range of support services we provide, to enhance both learning and ministry activities.
SPBC is proud to be a signatory to the Education (Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Learners) Code of Practice 2021. This code establishes standards for all tertiary providers in New Zealand and ensures that learners are safe and supported. NZQA, as the Code Administrator, monitors compliance with it.
View the full code or a summary, published by NZQA.
As part of our commitment to providing a safe and supportive environment, SPBC regularly reviews its standard of care. We gather feedback from current and former students through both formal and informal meetings and surveys. An annual self-review process ensures that SPBC maintains high standards of student well-being and safety, and continues to offer a positive and enriching learning experience for all students. You can read SPBC’s latest Self-Review Report for more information. This also captures complaints and critical incidents (see below).
SPBC’s complaints policy adopts a learner-centred approach, offering a clear and efficient process for students to provide feedback or raise concerns. Complaints are handled responsibly, with students kept informed throughout. Key findings are disclosed annually as part of our self-review process.
For a quick overview of how our complaints process works, please see our Complaints Process Poster.
The college defines critical incidents as situations that fall under these circumstances but are not limited to:
Death of a student
Serious injury to students as a result of an accident or other incidents
Onset of illness or medical condition in a student requiring immediate or emergency treatment
Mental health and safety concerns that may put a student at risk
Pandemic and/or natural disaster
Loss of student accommodation due to fire or other incidents
The college maintains a Critical Incident Plan, which is reviewed annually. This procedural document outlines designated roles, with the Executive Director serving as the “Crisis Manager” in the event of a critical incident that requires implementation of the plan. The plan includes consideration of the college's responsibilities towards our international students and its role as an accommodation provider.