ACG Parnell College and Macleans College are both in Auckland, about 12 km apart. Both schools offer Cambridge (Secondary) programmes. ACG Parnell College also offers Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge International AS Levels and Cambridge A Levels, and Macleans College also offers Bespoke. Published annual fees are close, at NZ$25,595 - 31,170 for ACG Parnell College and NZ$26,000 for Macleans College. ACG Parnell College takes pupils from 0 to 18, and Macleans College from 13 to 18. Macleans College is the larger school, with around 2,902 pupils to ACG Parnell College's 1,913.
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ACG Parnell College
Auckland, New Zealand
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Macleans College
Auckland, New Zealand
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| Snapshot | Snapshot | |
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Fees / year
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Fees / year NZ$25,595 - 31,170 | Fees / year NZ$26,000 |
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Age range
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Age range 0 - 18 years | Age range 13 - 18 years |
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Type
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Type Co-educational | Type Co-educational |
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Curriculum
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Curriculum Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge (Secondary), Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge International AS Levels, Cambridge A Levels | Curriculum Cambridge (Secondary), Bespoke Curriculum |
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Pupils
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Pupils 1,913 | Pupils 2,902 |
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Typical class size
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Typical class size 24 | Typical class size — |
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Instruction language
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Instruction language English | Instruction language English |
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Opened
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Opened — | Opened 1980 |
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Bus service
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Bus service No | Bus service No |
| Essentials | Essentials | |
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Location
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Location ACG Parnell College is located between the inner-city suburbs of Parnell and Newmarket in Auckland, beside Auckland Domain, the city's largest park. The area is surrounded by art galleries, museums, and historic architecture, forming a vibrant cultural hub. The campus has excellent transport links, with bus, train, and ferry services nearby and is on the InnerLink bus route for convenient access to major transport hubs across Auckland. | Location 2 Macleans Road, Bucklands Beach, Auckland 2014, New Zealand. The school is located in Bucklands Beach, Auckland. The International Department lists the address for the campus at this location. School buses are operated by Gobus; students pay their own bus fares. Public transport options are available for students as part of the Auckland Transport network. |
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Stages
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Stages Preschool (Early Learning); Primary School; Middle School; College (Senior Campus). | Stages Year 9–13 (secondary school) |
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School type
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School type Cambridge International education provider for Early Learning to Year 13. | School type co-educational high school |
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Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix — | Pupil nationality mix 3,000+ students; Students come from 20+ countries, representing over 80 cultures. |
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Additional learning support
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Additional learning support ELL (English Language Learner) support for non-native English speakers; Intensive English Language programme with regular progress assessments; ESOL support. | Additional learning support Dedicated English language support (ESOL) for international students at all levels. |
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Country affiliation
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Country affiliation New Zealand | Country affiliation New Zealand |
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Religious affiliation
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Religious affiliation — | Religious affiliation — |
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School day structure
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School day structure — | School day structure The school day begins with an Early Warning Bell around 8:30, followed by Form Period, Assembly and five class periods with a mid-morning interval. Sit-down lunch occurs around midday, and lessons continue until 3:15 pm (Fridays end earlier at 2:45–3:15 pm depending on timetable). |
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Bus service details
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Bus service details Private bus service for students from the North Shore and Eastern Suburbs; shared transport options from Western Suburbs; four routes across Early Learning, Primary School, Middle School and Senior Campus. | Bus service details School buses are operated by Gobus; Gobus can be contacted at 09 257 7690. Students are responsible for paying their own bus fares. |
| Fees | Fees | |
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Fee details
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Fee details Domestic tuition — 2026 (by year group and payment options) - Years 1 to 6 - Annual fee: NZ$25,595. - Payment options shown: three instalments of NZ$8,606 (total NZ$25,818) or nine instalments of NZ$2,923 (total NZ$26,307). - Per term (annual divided by 4): NZ$6,399 (rounded). This per-term figure is the annual fee divided by four school terms. - Years 7 to 10 - Annual fee: NZ$29,825. - Payment options shown: three instalments of NZ$10,028 (total NZ$30,084) or nine instalments of NZ$3,406 (total NZ$30,654). - Per term (annual divided by 4): NZ$7,456 (rounded). - Years 11 to 13 - Annual fee: NZ$31,170. - Payment options shown: three instalments of NZ$10,479 (total NZ$31,437) or nine instalments of NZ$3,559 (total NZ$32,031). - Per term (annual divided by 4): NZ$7,793 (rounded). Application / enrolment fees (domestic) - One-time application fee: NZ$300. - Enrolment Acceptance Fee (to secure a place): NZ$1,200 for Years 1–10; NZ$600 for new enrolments into Years 11–13. No separate building development levies or bonds are charged. International tuition — 2026 (by year group) - Years 1 to 6 (ages 5–10): Annual fee NZ$38,640; per term (annual divided by 4): NZ$9,660. - Years 7 to 10 (ages 11–15): Annual fee NZ$44,090; per term (annual divided by 4): NZ$11,023. - Years 11 to 13 (ages 15+): Annual fee NZ$51,980; per term (annual divided by 4): NZ$12,995. - Additional international fees: - Annual Administration Fee: NZ$1,260 (annual). - One‑time Registration Fee: NZ$420. - All international fees are quoted in New Zealand dollars and include GST. Billing schedule and payment terms - Domestic billing options are shown as: an annual lump-sum payment, three instalment payments (amounts shown above), or nine instalments (amounts shown above). Instalment totals may be slightly higher than the annual lump-sum amount. - International tuition: the standard requirement is that tuition for the academic year must be paid in advance of a student commencing or beginning a new academic year; early‑payment/early‑bird reductions may apply where published. A minimum notice period (one term) is required for cancellation/withdrawal; refunds are limited and made only at the discretion of the Board or as set out in published policies. Boarding / accommodation - ACG Parnell does not operate an on‑site boarding house. International students are placed in homestay accommodation arranged by the school. Homestay rates and related accommodation charges apply. - Typical ACG Parnell homestay rates and related charges (illustrative of accommodation costs to budget for): - Regular Homestay (includes lunches): NZ$440 per week. - Homestay Plus (includes lunches): NZ$475 per week. - Accommodation guarantee and services fee (students under 18): NZ$780 per year. - Accommodation placement fee: NZ$300. - Change of homestay fee or change of RCG/location: NZ$125 per change. - Weekly homestay retainer fee (when applicable): NZ$200. - Homestay-arranged lunch on school days: NZ$60 per week. - Airport greeting and transfer (one way): NZ$130. Auckland terminal transfer: NZ$110. Other costs and optional subject/activity fees - Annual administration/other compulsory charges for international students: Annual administration fee NZ$1,260; one‑time registration fee NZ$420; comprehensive medical and travel insurance is additional (varies by duration — an indicative 15‑month figure of NZ$791 appears in broader fee schedules). A New Zealand Government Export Education Levy (a percentage of compulsory tuition fees) also applies. - Subject/course costs (optional, approximate ranges where applicable for Years 11–13): Painting NZ$300–$600; Design NZ$450–$750; Textiles (ACG Parnell) NZ$480; Photography NZ$150–$480. Field trips, camps and practical subject costs vary (examples: PE camp or outdoor education camps and geography trips range from tens to several hundred NZD). Optional extra‑curricular sports fees at ACG Parnell can be up to NZ$800 per year. - Uniform: a school uniform is required and is purchased through the NZ Uniforms online store; costs vary by items ordered. Uniforms are available to order online or in‑store. - Other incidental costs to budget for include textbooks, stationery, school trips, specific course materials, school transport (if used), and personal expenses. Approximate amounts depend on choices and program participation. Refunds and withdrawal notices - Refund policy highlights: refunds are generally limited. No refunds of tuition will be made except at the discretion of the Board of Directors or as outlined in published policies; a minimum of one term's notice of cancellation or withdrawal is required. Specific refund conditions (for example in relation to visa refusal, mid‑year withdrawal, or change of residency status) are governed by the school's published international student and enrolment policies. Fee payment methods and surcharges - Accepted payment methods and practical payment details: - Bank transfer (payments accepted in New Zealand dollars or US dollars to the ACG Schools bank account at Westpac New Zealand; SWIFT WPACNZ2W). - Credit card payments are accepted via an ACG Credit Card Payment Form and are subject to a 2% surcharge. - Payment in advance is required for international enrolments (full‑year tuition payable prior to commencement) and instalment options are offered for domestic families as shown above. Notes on amounts and billing - All figures are stated in New Zealand dollars (NZ$) and where the school lists GST‑inclusive pricing this is reflected in the amounts above. Instalment plans show per‑payment amounts and may result in a higher total than the annual lump sum. The school publishes the specific instalment schedules and deadlines tied to those payment options; those schedules determine exact due dates and any late‑payment consequences. | Fee details Application / Enrollment fees - Enrolment Fee (new international student, non‑refundable): NZD 1,000. - Administration Fee (all international students): NZD 1,000. Tuition fees (international students) — full details by academic year - 2026 Annual tuition and core fee (single flat amount for international students): NZD 25,000 per year. - 2027 Annual tuition and core fee (single flat amount for international students): NZD 26,000 per year. Note: the published fee schedule for international students is expressed as an annual school fee; a per‑term or per‑New Zealand school year‑level breakdown is not published in the fee schedule. Billing schedule and payment terms - Invoicing is issued in advance of the school term or the academic year. Payments must be made by the due dates shown on invoices or charge notices. - Full or partial payments are accepted. Direct debit (weekly/fortnightly/monthly) payment plans are available and will be applied to outstanding amounts according to due dates on the student account. Boarding / Accommodation fees (homestay and caregiver options) - Homestay Placement Fee: NZD 500 (one‑off). - Homestay Fee 2026: NZD 380 per week (budgeted for 47 weeks = NZD 17,860). - Homestay Fee 2027: NZD 400 per week (budgeted for 47 weeks = NZD 18,800). - Homestay Change Fee: NZD 500. - Designated Caregiver (DCG) Placement Fee: NZD 1,000; DCG Change Fee: NZD 1,000. These options are listed where accommodation is arranged privately or via a caregiver. Other required or commonly expected costs - Insurance (student travel/medical insurance): NZD 675 for 2026; NZD 750 for 2027. - Miscellaneous expenses deposit (examples given: deposit for exam fees, extra‑curricular activity fees, textbook bond — refundable on sign‑out where applicable): NZD 1,000. - School uniform and shoes (typical cost indicated): NZD 800. - Stationery (typical cost indicated): NZD 400. - Subject‑related fees, field trips, external examination fees and personal spending are additional and depend on subject choices and activities. Estimated annual total ranges are provided for budgeting: students in homestay should budget approximately NZD 48,235–NZD 50,250 per year; students living with a Designated Caregiver should budget approximately NZD 30,875–NZD 31,950 per year. Refund information - Payments made for school‑related charges, voluntary donations, trips, sports, tournaments and registrations are generally non‑refundable. Where a refund is approved, it will first be credited against any outstanding amounts on the student's account. Refund inquiries for school charges are handled through the school's refund procedures (inquiries directed to the Teacher in Charge or the Accounts Office). - Specific published conditions for refund of international tuition (for example, refunds related to visa refusals or early withdrawal) are not detailed in the public fee schedule; families should consult the International Department or Accounts Office for the precise refund conditions that apply to a particular enrolment. Fee payment options - Preferred payment method: Parent Secure Portal (online), which accepts secure direct bank transfer (account‑to‑account) and credit card payments processed via the school's payment processor (Windcave). - Other accepted methods: direct bank deposit (include student ID/surname as reference) and direct debit arrangements. Internet banking details and further payment instructions are provided on the school's payment pages and on invoices. Additional notes about published information and gaps - The school's published international fee schedule gives annual flat tuition fees for international students (NZD 25,000 for 2026; NZD 26,000 for 2027) and detailed accommodation and ancillary charges, but it does not publish a per‑term or per‑New Zealand year‑level (Year 9–13) breakdown of tuition. Billing is stated to occur in advance of terms or the year, and payment methods and general refund handling are described, but detailed, itemised refund conditions for international tuition are not published in the publicly displayed fee pages. For exact invoice due dates, payment deadlines and any case‑specific refund conditions, the Accounts Office or International Department administers the student account. |
| Diving deeper | Diving deeper | |
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Boarding arrangements
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Boarding arrangements Boarding is available through Inspired's premium boarding facilities. | Boarding arrangements Homestay Programme with host families for international students. |
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Uniform requirement
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Uniform requirement The uniform is worn by Years 1 to 11; Years 12 and 13 may wear mufti within a set dress code. | Uniform requirement The school has a formal uniform. Junior and Senior uniforms are worn, and correct official uniform is required for attendance, travel, and school functions. There are blazer options for premier groups: rental at 90 NZD per year, second‑hand at 120 NZD, or a new blazer at 255 NZD. |
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Food options
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Food options The cafeteria offers a variety of nutritious meals and snacks. Students can bring lunch from home or purchase freshly prepared food at the cafeteria, including items such as sandwiches, donburi, pasta, sushi, curry, noodles and rice dishes, muffins, fruit salad, and milk. The menu accommodates vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free options. | Food options Lunch is provided through the Dollar for Schools program (interim arrangement started March 17, 2025) with a rotating menu including Subway, sushi, Hell Pizza, and other items; a lunchtime delivery system is in place. |
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House system
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House system — | House system The Whānau House System is the school's extended family of students and staff. The eight Whānau Houses are Batten, Hillary, Kupe, Mansfield, Rutherford, Snell, Te Kanawa and Upham. |
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Governance and ownership
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Governance and ownership ACG Parnell is an Inspired School in New Zealand and a proud member of the Inspired Education Group. | Governance and ownership The school is governed by the Macleans College Board, a Crown entity. New Zealand state and state‑integrated schools have a Board that sets strategic direction and hires the principal; the Board includes elected parent representatives, a staff representative and a student representative (when Year 9+). |
| Academics | Academics | |
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Curriculum details
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Curriculum details Cambridge International curriculum (IGCSE and A Levels) is taught from Early Learning through Years 12–13 via the Cambridge Pathway from Cambridge Primary to College; AS Level in Year 12 and A-Level in Year 13 with 23 AS courses and 18 full A-Level options. | Curriculum details The school delivers a knowledge-rich curriculum with a wide range of subject choices and clear academic progression from junior to senior levels. Students develop strong subject knowledge, critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and academic confidence and independence. The curriculum prepares students for success in both national and international qualifications. Senior students can follow flexible qualification pathways, including NCEA, NZQA Scholarship, Cambridge International Education (CIE) and Vocational pathways, allowing alignment with future goals. English language support (ESOL) is available for international students. |
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Student teacher ratio
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Student teacher ratio — | Student teacher ratio — |
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Exam results
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Exam results 100% A-Level pass rate; seven Top in the World Cambridge Awards; fifteen Top in New Zealand Cambridge Awards; 97% of Year 13 graduates achieve University Entrance; 46% of graduates gain admission to leading overseas universities. | Exam results The school has a strong and consistent record of academic achievement. It reports consistently high NCEA achievement rates, strong NZQA Scholarship results, and outstanding Cambridge International results, including Top in the World and Top in New Zealand awards. Graduates are accepted into leading universities worldwide. |
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Higher education progression
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Higher education progression Tailored university preparation and global opportunities; one-on-one university counselling for local and international universities; Unifrog platform; regular university visits; support for applications to leading universities such as the Ivy League and Russell Group. | Higher education progression The school regularly supports graduates to progress to leading universities in New Zealand and around the world. The Careers Department assists with subject selection and pathway planning, university applications and scholarship opportunities. |
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Gifted and talented
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Gifted and talented Enrichment and extension for Gifted and Talented students through a differentiated teaching programme; opportunity to advance to higher levels in mathematics in Years 9–10 and in science in Year 10 for eligible students. | Gifted and talented The school offers a scholarship programme for high-achieving students, including NZQA Scholarship results. Music scholarships are available for instrumentalists Grade 6 or above. Cambridge International Education (CIE) pathways are available as part of flexible qualification routes. |
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Academic calendar
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Academic calendar — | Academic calendar — |
| Wellbeing & support | Wellbeing & support | |
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Social & emotional learning
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Social & emotional learning The school assigns a tutor who provides mentoring and academic support. Deans work with tutors to provide further assistance when needed. A range of tailored support channels enhances each student's learning journey, with school leaders closely monitoring both academic progress and pastoral wellbeing. An International Dean supports international students with academic matters, visa and funding queries. Parent Partnership and Achievement Conference Days keep families informed about progress and involvement. | Social & emotional learning Macleans College prioritises pastoral care as part of everyday student life. The Whānau House system places students in small, supportive communities to foster belonging and wellbeing. The school emphasises a caring, inclusive environment within the whānau framework. There is a dedicated international team providing guidance and support to international students. A broad range of extracurricular activities complements academic study and supports social and emotional development. |
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Special educational needs (SEN)
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Special educational needs (SEN) Where appropriate, referrals are made for assessments with the Ministry of Education's Learning Support team. The Learning Support team provides access to special education services, speech-language therapists, psychologists, and occupational therapists. Preschool Learning Support works with families and specialists to support children's learning and development. The Well Child Tamariki Ora programme supports the youngest learners and includes hearing and vision screening as part of the B4 School Check. An ESOL programme is available for students who would benefit from specialist English language instruction. | Special educational needs (SEN) — |
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English as an additional language
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English as an additional language Intensive English Programme is delivered by specialist English language teachers. It supports students whose first language is not English with elementary or intermediate skills before transitioning into mainstream classes. Your child's progress is assessed regularly, and the team works closely with families to ensure development across reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Literacy Support Programme is delivered through the English department and provides weekly targeted assistance in grammar, spelling, reading comprehension, and writing. The programme is available to students from Year 7 through to the senior years, with regular communication to families. | English as an additional language Macleans College provides dedicated English language support for international students at all levels. ESOL programmes build confidence in English, support learning across all subjects and help students participate in school life. Students move into mainstream classes with pastoral and academic support. ESOL support is available to long-term international students only; short-term stays are not eligible. |
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Mental wellbeing
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Mental wellbeing Pastoral care and wellbeing are central to the school environment. Each student is assigned a tutor who provides mentoring and academic support. Deans per year level, and an International Dean, support student welfare, academic progress, and personal development. A range of tailored support channels enhances each student's learning journey, with school leaders closely monitoring both progress and pastoral wellbeing. Progress is assessed regularly, and families are kept informed through Parent Partnership and Achievement Conference Days. | Mental wellbeing Guidance and Counselling are available to support student wellbeing. The school provides a Student Support area with resources for welfare and academic guidance. An International Support Team offers tailored assistance to international students. The pastoral approach underpins student wellbeing through the Whānau House system and associated support structures. The Careers Department helps students plan pathways to university, reducing stress and contributing to overall wellbeing. |
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Safeguarding
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Safeguarding — | Safeguarding Emergency and Student Safety Information is provided for international students. The emergency number in New Zealand is 111 for Police, Fire or Ambulance. For international student support, during school hours contact is +64 9 535 2620. After hours emergency contact is +64 27 420 3917. Safety procedures are published for emergencies. |
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Safeguarding policy
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Safeguarding policy — | Safeguarding policy — |
| Facilities | Facilities | |
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Facilities overview
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Facilities overview Located in central Auckland, four campuses—Early Learning, Primary, Middle School, and Senior—are within walking distance of one another to provide a seamless journey from infancy to university preparation. Each campus features technology-enabled spaces and specialist classrooms, including modern science laboratories and well-stocked libraries. Facilities support physical education with quality sports grounds and provide dedicated studios and performance spaces for drama, music, and visual arts. The Senior Campus is located in Newmarket, offering convenient access to city amenities. | Facilities overview Macleans College provides modern, well-maintained facilities that support learning and student wellbeing. Students benefit from well-equipped classrooms and specialist Science, Technology and Art blocks, extensive sports facilities, and performing arts venues. The campus includes Whānau House common areas for student life, a library for study and research, and an on-site Health Centre. Convenience facilities include a Uniform Shop and Tuck Shop for daily needs. |
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Sports facilities
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Sports facilities The Middle School campus includes a multi-sport indoor gymnasium and recreational areas to support a broad range of activities. The Senior Campus location provides access to the Auckland Domain, Parnell Tennis Club, Olympic Pools and Fitness Centre, cinemas, and Newmarket precinct, expanding sports and recreation options. Football (Years 7–13) competes in College Sport Auckland, with additional opportunities for younger students in junior competitions. Basketball runs across several age divisions (U19, U17, Junior) with training in Term 1 and games in Term 2. Netball has multiple teams across Years 7–13, and all matches are played at the Auckland Netball Centre in St John's. | Sports facilities Extensive sports facilities support a wide range of activities, including a broad program of teams at all levels. The facilities include FIFA and IRB certified artificial turfs as part of the school's sporting offerings. |
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Academic facilities
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Academic facilities Senior Campus offers 24 teaching spaces, dedicated student social areas, and specialised laboratories for physics, chemistry, and biology. Creative facilities include photography and art studios, a dedicated music room, and a large custom-built theatre for performances. Middle School provides spacious classrooms, science and technology laboratories, visual art and music rooms, a library and study spaces, and a multi-sport indoor gymnasium. Primary School features bright classrooms and dedicated outdoor learning areas near Auckland Domain, while Early Learning School uses purpose-built facilities with science and technology laboratories, art and music spaces, a library and study spaces, and an in-house catering program. | Academic facilities Well-equipped classrooms and specialist Science, Technology and Art blocks provide modern learning spaces. The Library is a well-resourced space for study and research. |
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Extra curricular facilities
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Extra curricular facilities Extracurricular activities include a comprehensive programme of clubs and competitions. Notable events include Brain Bee, Science Bowl Interschool Quiz, and Metagenomics Day at Massey University. | Extra curricular facilities Over 100 activities are available, including academic clubs, cultural groups, performing arts (music, drama and dance) and sports teams at all levels. Outdoor Education offers surfing, hiking, scuba diving and camping. International students can take on leadership roles such as International Prefects, Student Leaders and Ambassadors, and peer mentors. |
| Parent experience | Parent experience | |
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History
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History ACG Parnell College expanded to four campuses across Auckland and opened the Senior Campus in 2019 at 9 Davis Crescent, Newmarket, offering the International Baccalaureate and Cambridge International curricula. | History Macleans College was opened in 1980 by the Governor General, Sir David Beattie. It is a co-educational school and was the first S80 or whānau house school built in New Zealand. The campus spans about 13 hectares (32 acres) of land. The school is named after the Maclean family, who immigrated to New Zealand in 1850 and farmed the land on which the school sits. The whānau house system creates a mini school within the college, with each whānau of around 360 students. |
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Community
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Community The school has an exceptional community of motivated students, supportive families, and dedicated teachers. | Community Macleans College maintains an active community that connects alumni, staff, parents and supporters through sharing of news, events and projects. The Alumni section supports engagement with features such as joining or updating details, Distinguished Alumni, Where are you now?, Alumni News & Events and the Alumni Speaker Series. There are opportunities for involvement through Giving and volunteering via the Ways to Give and Volunteering or Mentoring sections. Principal's Campus Tours are offered for alumni and other local community members to view the campus and observe classes. |
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Parent teacher association
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Parent teacher association — | Parent teacher association — |
| Extra-curricular | Extra-curricular | |
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Academic & intellectual
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Academic & intellectual ACG Parnell offers 90+ extracurricular opportunities. Academic & STEM activities include Science Club, Maths Problem Solving Club, Maths Olympiad, Coding Club, Design Technology Club, Chess Club, Bridge Club, VEX Robotics and General Robotics, plus Biology Olympiad, Chemistry Olympiad, Engineering Science Competition, CERN Masterclass and Brain Bee. Debating Club and Model United Nations develop public speaking and diplomacy. Students participate in competitions such as Brain Bee, Science Bowl Interschool Quiz, Monetary Policy Challenge, University of Auckland Economics Competition and Young Enterprise. | Academic & intellectual Model East Asian Relations Conference (MEARC) is hosted for secondary students to engage in structured debate on international affairs. Model United Nations Assembly (MUNA) involves Macleans College students in a simulated UN setting. Grace Baylis (Year 13) was selected as part of the New Zealand Schools' Debating Team. There are over 100 activities available, including academic clubs, sport, drama and intercultural programs. |
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Arts & creative
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Arts & creative Arts & Music Programme includes an annual musical production and singing groups such as Choir, Glee Choir and Jazz Combo, along with ensembles like Concert Band, Big Band, Chamber Orchestra and Symphony Orchestra. Students can join Art Club, Drama Club, Photography Club and Short Film Club, and participate in Open Mic Night and Theatresports. Kapa Haka and Manu Tioriori form part of the cultural and performance offerings. | Arts & creative Performing Arts is a central part of student life, with events such as a Gala Concert celebrating the year's performing arts. Creative Arts, Design & Industries are highlighted within the extra-curricular program. A broad range of arts‑based activities includes music, drama and related disciplines. |
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Cultural & language
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Cultural & language The school has Cultural & Special Interest groups including Christian Union, Book Clubs, Spanish Club, Indian Club, Chinese Club and Chinese News Club. Tabletop Gaming Club and Eat the World Club are also part of the cultural offerings. Kapa Haka and Manu Tioriori reflect local culture within the cultural spectrum. | Cultural & language Intercultural clubs are available as part of the extra-curricular program. Senior Spanish language students explore the cultures of 20 countries. The Intercultural Committee (ICC) runs events and supports intercultural groups such as Chinese Culture Club, Lion Dance, K‑Pop groups and more. |
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Social & hobbies
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Social & hobbies Social & hobbies are supported by Tabletop Gaming Club, Dungeons & Dragons, Bridge Club and Team Chess. A variety of clubs such as Book Clubs, Craft Club and Open Mic Night foster social connection and creative expression. | Social & hobbies Groups and Clubs cover a wide range of social and hobby interests; sign-up lists are available through the school. Group activities include clubs and shared lunches as part of student life. The Whānau House System provides an extended family network across houses. |
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Community & service
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Community & service Community service is supported through Camps & Service Activities and the Duke of Edinburgh's Hillary Awards. Students can engage in peer mentoring, buddy reading and leadership of extracurricular groups as part of community engagement. | Community & service Volunteering or mentoring is available through Ways to Give. International Prefects celebrate a year of service. Community service opportunities are demonstrated through events such as charitable fundraisers and festival activities. |
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Leadership & professional
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Leadership & professional Head Prefects and Prefects, Student Council, and Library Monitors provide formal leadership roles. Students can participate in Peer Tutoring, Buddy Reading, and lead extracurricular groups to develop leadership skills. Optional leadership camps and service projects further build character and resilience. | Leadership & professional Student Leaders and House Prefects provide leadership across the school, with Year 12 Camp Leaders and Year 13 House Prefects and School Prefects included in the leadership structure. The Careers Department offers career development support. MEARC and MUNA provide leadership opportunities in international affairs and debate. |
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Lifestyle & wellbeing
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Lifestyle & wellbeing ACG Parnell offers a wide sports programme including athletics, swimming, gymnastics, tennis, badminton, squash, cycling and more. Team sports include football, basketball, netball, hockey, volleyball and rugby. Specialist activities include archery, sailing, rowing and mountain biking, with fitness options such as weightlifting and triathlon training. | Lifestyle & wellbeing The Whānau House System creates an extended family of students and staff, supporting belonging and wellbeing. Outdoor adventures are part of the extra-curricular life. Sport and fitness activities contribute to overall wellbeing and resilience. |
| Language provision | Language provision | |
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Language provision
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Language provision Languages taught include Spanish and Chinese (Mandarin). Cambridge curriculum includes English Language or English Literature as a core subject. English Language Learner (ELL) support is provided for international students; new students needing English begin in an Intensive English Language programme and are regularly assessed on progress. | Language provision English language support (ESOL) is provided for international students at all levels. ESOL programs are designed to build confidence in the English language, support learning across all subjects, and help students fully participate in school life. Students move into mainstream classes with pastoral and academic support. ESOL is available to long-term international students; short-term stays are not eligible. |
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Bilingual teaching
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Bilingual teaching — | Bilingual teaching — |
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Immersion programs
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Immersion programs Language Immersion in High School is offered. Spanish and Chinese (Mandarin) are available for students who have prior learning experience in these languages. These options provide pathways to AS and A-Level examinations. | Immersion programs — |
| Reputation | Reputation | |
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Awards
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Awards — | Awards — |
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Accreditations
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Accreditations — | Accreditations — |
| Admissions | Admissions | |
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Admissions
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Admissions Applications to ACG Parnell are accepted year‑round for Early Learning to Year 13. Mid‑term entry is possible for most levels, but places in some year groups may be limited, so applying early is advised. The quickest and easiest way to apply is online; the application form takes about ten minutes to complete, and the Admissions Team will be in touch after submission to discuss the next steps. If you would like to learn more about the school, you can attend a Guided Tour or Open Day. 1. Application: complete the online form, which typically takes about ten minutes; after submission, the team will contact you to discuss next steps. 2. Interview: after reviewing the application, you and your child will be invited to a roughly 30‑minute interview to discuss needs and answer questions; please bring copies of documents if available, including the child's passport or birth certificate, the most recent school report, and standardised test results (e.g., PAT, e‑asTTle, or NCEA for senior students). 3. Offer: a decision will be provided within seven days of the interview; successful candidates receive an offer; the school requires a certain level of English fluency to access classroom instruction, and ESOL support is available for non‑native English speakers. 4. Acceptance: acceptance must be confirmed in writing and the acceptance fee paid; after that, arrangements can be made for uniforms and school transport in preparation for the start at the school. | Admissions — |
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Scholarships
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Scholarships ACG Parnell offers four scholarship options: Academic Scholarship, Founders Scholarship, Sibling Scholarship, and the Nsouli Scholars Programme through Inspired Education Group. The Academic Scholarship is for new students in Years 7 to 13 and covers part of tuition; selection is based on demonstrated academic ability, work ethic, and performance, with consideration also given to talents in sports, performing arts and leadership; scholarships are not available for financial hardship. The terms require a completed online admissions form, a CV detailing achievements, and selection based on the application, school reports, and an interview with a member of the Senior Leadership Team; scholarships are reviewed annually and may be withdrawn if attitude or performance are unsatisfactory; recipients are expected to participate in extracurricular life. The Founders Scholarship is for students currently studying at a New Zealand ACG secondary school who plan to begin a university course the following year and may be held with other awards; it recognises outstanding academic ability and personal qualities such as integrity, leadership, vision, drive and work ethic. The Sibling Scholarship rewards larger families; if four children attend ACG Parnell at the same time, the youngest may receive a full‑tuition scholarship, and for five or more children a 25% scholarship of total fees may be awarded, subject to enrolment criteria. The Nsouli Scholars Programme is an Inspired Education Group initiative offering up to 50 full scholarships across Inspired schools; several scholarships will be awarded to individuals of Lebanese origin as part of the programme's inclusivity. | Scholarships — |
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Waitlist
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