Creipac Language School, Noumea and Snorkelling/Diving

I'm considering going to New Caledonia for a French Language course in August. It's a two week course at Creipac in Noumea.

There are some things I'm not sure about at the moment and I'd be interested in people's comments:
- Class size for the course is up to 14 (it's not a school kids class though) which seems a bit on the large size for really learning a language on an intense basis
- I'm a little unsure of how 'nice' a location Noumea is
- I want to see some of New Caledonia other than Noumea, but I'm not sure how easy it will be to see things as the course only gives me afternoons and weekends off - is there much worth seeing close to Noumea?
-How is the diving and snorkelling close to Noumea - bearing in mind that I've only got afternoons and weekends as options

Any comments would be much appreciated. Thanks

"I'm a little unsure of how 'nice' a location Noumea is" - Noumea is really charming - a peice of France in the Pacific - city facilities, beaches, casinos, market, all very scenic

"only gives me afternoons and weekends off - is there much worth seeing close to Noumea?" - there is plenty to see/do nearby - search the Forum for ideas - eg - the Cultural Cente in Noumea, the nearby Lighthouse on an idyllic islet, the gorgeous Isles of Pines (bset for a weekend) , horse riding on a ranch etc etc

Class size would be a bit to big if it was the only place for you to learn the language, but as you will have plnty of chances to practice outside the classroom in Noumea, here this is not really an issue.

I also find Noumea nice - possibly the nicest real city in the South Pacific.

Tons to see on Grand Terre within a few hours of Noumea.
If your budget allows flying, any of the outer islands are possible weekend-trips, too.