When refugees arrive in the New Zealand, many don't know what to expect and barely speak a word of English.
They learn essential skills at the refugee centre in Auckland which has just opened 12 new classrooms to help them adjust to life in a new country.
Now playing happily in the classroom, many like the Al Ajan family from Syria have fled persecution and war.
"I had a little supermarket, life was good until the war started," father-of-three Marwan told Newshub through an interpreter.
The family had little access to education while in limbo for several years after escaping to Lebanon.
They recently arrived at the refugee centre in Auckland, where they're preparing for their new life in Hamilton.
"We are going to focus on learning the language, on learning everything about this country and we hope that we can put our hands in the hands of the people here towards the future of this country," Mr Al Ajan said.
Twelve new classrooms were opened on Tuesday at the Mangere centre where all refugees stay for six weeks when they first arrive in the country.
Maria Hayward oversees the education department.
"We have learners lining up half an hour before the bell goes, if you've missed educational opportunities in the past you become aware of how important it is in your life," she told Newshub.
Mr Al Ajan says finally seeing his kids back in a classroom gives him hope.
"I can see that it is a very bright future and I am very happy for them. I'm afraid they're going to learn English before me, and then I'm going to need their help to teach me," he said.
There's a real sense of gratitude towards to New Zealand from the people here.
Most of the families have been in survival mode for many years, and now they can make education a priority.
Newshub.
