UP Education Strengthens China-NZ Education Links On Prime Ministers Delegation
Auckland, New Zealand — UP Education Chief Executive Mark Rushworth has joined Prime Minister Christopher Luxon on this week's high-level diplomatic and trade mission to China, a visit that highlights the vital role international education plays in strengthening the economic, cultural, and diplomatic ties between the two nations.
'Education is one of New Zealand's most valuable exports. Partnerships like these grow our global reputation, develop world-class talent, and strengthen long-term economic and diplomatic ties,' said Prime Minister Christopher Luxon.
For UP Education, the delegation marks a major moment in its strategic efforts across China — its most important international market. With over 2,400 Chinese students enrolled across its foundation and private higher education programmes since late 2023, the group is seeing strong momentum, with annual growth now exceeding 50%. Rushworth says the organisation is targeting to double Chinese enrolments by 2026, supported by deep in-market investment and a long-standing commitment to the region through its 25 year market leading partnership with the University of Auckland.
'We've built the largest China-based team of any New Zealand education provider,' said Rushworth. 'With 10 full-time staff across eight cities, we're able to support students, families, and agents in both Tier 1 and Tier 2/3 regions and deliver over 500 engagement events annually.'
As part of the Prime Minister's visit, UP Education has also launched a NZ$250,000 'Future Scholarship' fund to support high-achieving Chinese students. The fund includes full-fee support for students entering foundation programmes in New Zealand, as well as a new suite of postgraduate offerings, tailored specifically for Chinese learners with global ambitions.
In addition to the scholarship launch, UP Education formalised three new partnerships in China through signed Memoranda of Understanding. These agreements include:
• A collaboration with Etonkids Educational Group to strengthen early childhood education through teacher training and academic exchange, underpinned by shared philosophies between Etonkids and UP's New Zealand Tertiary College.
• A pathway partnership with Hangzhou No.2 High School, one of China's most respected academic institutions, which will host a New Zealand-focused programme preparing students for direct entry into the University of Auckland Certificate in Foundation Studies.
• An initiative with Beijing National Day School, a flagship public school in Beijing, including direct admission offers and scholarship support for top-performing students, along with regular sessions for students and families about studying in New Zealand.
' During this visit, we're proud to be formalising new relationships with leading institutions at every level — from preschool to secondary and tertiary — and reinforcing the role private education plays in delivering life-changing opportunities for students,' said Rushworth. ' We're also showcasing how New Zealand institutions can partner authentically and ambitiously with China for shared long-term benefit.'
With over 39,000 students across 64 campuses in New Zealand and Australia, UP Education delivers higher education, vocational training, and university pathway programmes through partnerships with institutions such as the University of Auckland, Victoria University of Wellington, and AUT, as well as private providers including Yoobee Colleges, NZMA, the New Zealand Tertiary College, and the Healthcare Academy of New Zealand.
About UP Education
UP Education is one of the largest private education providers in Australasia, delivering quality education to thousands of learners across New Zealand and Australia. With a strong focus on student outcomes, UP Education offers a wide range of higher education and vocational training programs through its network of colleges, institutes, and industry partnerships.
Across its porgolio, UP Education is commited to empowering learners with the skills, support, and confidence to thrive in a changing world. Through strong relationships with industry, government, and community, UP Education ensures that its graduates are work-ready and equipped for future success.
Whether through pathway programs that lead to university or practical, hands-on training aligned with workforce needs, UP Education exists to unlock potential and transform lives through education.
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