ACG Strathallan vs Auckland Grammar School

	A ACG Strathallan Auckland, New Zealand	A Auckland Grammar School Auckland, New Zealand
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year NZ$24,420 - 29,300	Fees / year NZ$26,250
Age range	Age range 0 - 18 years	Age range 13 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Boys School, Boys School (boarding)
Curriculum	Curriculum Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge International AS Levels, Cambridge A Levels	Curriculum Cambridge International AS Levels, Cambridge A Levels, Bespoke Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 1,018	Pupils 2,800
Typical class size	Typical class size 25	Typical class size —
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened —	Opened 1869
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service No
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Nestled on the scenic Hingaia Peninsula in Karaka, Auckland, on a 15-hectare campus beside a tidal inlet. The campus provides Preschool through Year 13 learning across three stages—Early Learning, Primary, and College. It is five minutes from the Southern Motorway and within easy reach of Auckland's Eastern Suburbs and CBD. Address: 50 Hayfield Way, Karaka, Auckland 2113, New Zealand.	Location Auckland Grammar School is located on Mountain Road in Epsom, Auckland, New Zealand. It sits on the northern slopes of Mt Eden in the central Auckland area, near Newmarket. The street address is Mountain Road, Epsom (Auckland 1023). The postal address is Auckland Grammar School, Private Bag 99930, Newmarket, Auckland 1149, New Zealand.
Stages	Stages Three stages: Early Learning (Preschool), Primary (Years 1–6), and College (Years 7–13). Each stage has its own dedicated area.	Stages Year 9–13 (Form 3–7)
School type	School type independent school	School type State secondary school for boys with boarding facilities (hostel accommodation available for selected students)
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix International students represent approximately 5% of the annual School roll and come from over 20 countries.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support Learning support is available for Preschool, Primary and College, including access to special education professionals (speech-language therapists, psychologists, occupational therapists) and external counselling. The Literacy Support Programme and Intensive English Programme support language and literacy development for non-native speakers.	Additional learning support Learning Support Department provides differentiated support within mainstream classrooms and small-group tuition in literacy and numeracy. The department coordinates Special Assessment Conditions (SAC) for examinations and supports students with learning needs through targeted programs.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation New Zealand	Country affiliation New Zealand
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation —	Religious affiliation —
School day structure	School day structure —	School day structure 7-period day with a 9:00am assembly and a 3:15pm finish for most students. On Tuesdays Form 5 students have an 8-period day finishing at 3:30pm, while other year levels finish at 2:50pm.
Bus service details	Bus service details A safe and reliable private bus service operates five days a week with multiple routes across South and East Auckland; bus fares are charged per term and current routes can be provided by the school.	Bus service details Auckland Transport provides a regular school bus service that begins after school daily around 3:20pm.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application and enrolment fees - Application fee: NZD 200 (non‑refundable). - Enrolment Acceptance Fee: NZD 1,200 to reserve a place for Years 1–10; NZD 600 for new enrolments into Years 11–13. - The school does not charge a building development levy or bond. Domestic tuition fees (day students) — published 2026 schedule Years 1–6: - Annual (lump sum): NZD 24,420 per year. - Three instalments: NZD 8,210 per instalment (NZD 24,630 total per year). - Nine monthly instalments: NZD 2,789 per month (NZD 25,101 total per year). Years 7–10: - Annual (lump sum): NZD 28,170 per year. - Three instalments: NZD 9,470 per instalment (NZD 28,410 total per year). - Nine monthly instalments: NZD 3,217 per month (NZD 28,953 total per year). Years 11–13: - Annual (lump sum): NZD 29,300 per year. - Three instalments: NZD 9,852 per instalment (NZD 29,556 total per year). - Nine monthly instalments: NZD 3,346 per month (NZD 30,114 total per year). (All domestic fees are quoted in New Zealand dollars and are inclusive of GST.) International student fees and charges - International tuition (annual): Years 1–6 NZD 32,470; Years 7–13 NZD 39,700. - Annual administration fee (international): NZD 1,260. - Registration fee (one‑off): NZD 420. - Additional international charges that may apply include homestay placement and weekly homestay retainer fees, airport transfer charges, medical/insurance charges and the New Zealand Government Export Education Levy; these accommodation and ancillary charges are billed separately to tuition. Boarding / Accommodation - ACG Strathallan does not operate on‑site boarding houses; international accommodation is arranged through homestay providers. Homestay costs are charged separately to tuition and are typically in the range of approximately NZD 305–325 per week for a Regular Homestay and approximately NZD 340–360 per week for a Homestay Plus option (rates vary by location and season). Billing schedule and payment terms - Families may choose to pay tuition as a single annual (lump‑sum) payment, in three instalments, or in nine monthly instalments; the school issues invoices showing the chosen payment plan. - Published payment timing examples used in prior fee schedules require a full lump sum by mid‑January for the discounted annual payment, or three instalments with due dates in mid‑January, mid‑April and mid‑July for the three‑instalment plan. Nine‑instalment plans are structured as monthly payments. All tuition is payable in advance or by the invoiced instalment schedule. - Credit card payments are accepted but are subject to a surcharge; international fee schedules show a 2% credit‑card surcharge and provide bank transfer details for electronic payment. Payment instructions and the bank account details are provided with the school's invoice/request for payment. Other costs and commonly billed extras - Uniform, school stationery, camps, subject / examination charges and some co‑curricular activities are additional to tuition and are billed as required. - Homestay placement fee and weekly homestay retainer fees apply to international students living in homestay accommodation; airport transfer, change‑of‑homestay and similar service fees may also apply. Sample items include accommodation placement fee and airport transfer charges. Refunds and withdrawal notice - All tuition fees are payable in advance. No refunds will be made except at the discretion of the school's Board of Directors or as set out in the school's published policies. - A minimum of one term's written notice of cancellation or withdrawal is required; failure to provide the required notice may result in fees being charged for the notice period. - For international students who pay an annual tuition fee in advance and later obtain New Zealand permanent residency, a refund of the difference in fees may be applied where evidence is provided to the Registrar before the Ministry of Education return deadline (as specified in international enrolment policy). Fee payment options - Bank transfer (international telegraphic transfers accepted to the school's bank account in New Zealand) is a standard payment method; bank account and SWIFT details are provided with the offer/invoice. - Credit card payments are accepted where permitted, subject to a surcharge (example: 2% on credit‑card payments noted for ACG Schools). - Fees may also be payable in New Zealand dollars or (for international students) US dollars where arranged in the school's invoicing. Specific payment methods and any transaction surcharges are listed on the school's invoice and payment form. Notes on administration of fees - The one‑off acceptance/registration and application fees listed above are charged at application and at confirmation of place respectively and are non‑refundable unless the school's policies state otherwise. - Where additional services (homestay, insurance, transfers, special programmes) are required, those charges are invoiced separately and must be paid according to the invoice terms.	Fee details Application fees - Tibbs House (boarding) application fee: NZD 50 payable when the Tibbs House application form is submitted. - International student administration fees: New student administration fee (non‑refundable) NZD 1,000; returning student administration fee (non‑refundable) NZD 700. Tuition fees by year group and per term - Domestic (New Zealand/Australian resident) students: there is no tuition charge for domestic students; domestic students are charged for external examination entries only where applicable and asked to pay voluntary school donations and specific course charges. - International students (all year levels/Forms 3–7): tuition fee NZD 26,250 per year. For budgeting, this equates to NZD 6,562.50 per school term (annual tuition divided across four terms). Billing schedule and payment terms - International students receive an Offer of a Place accompanied by an invoice for the annual tuition and any living costs. Fees stated on the Offer must be paid in full to accept the Offer and secure the Confirmation of a Place required for visa purposes. The Offer remains valid for the period stated on the Offer. - Tibbs House boarding: when an offer of a boarding place is made a deposit (amount set by Tibbs House) must be paid to confirm the place; this deposit is non‑refundable and must be paid within four weeks of the offer. The published annual boarding fee is invoiced in accordance with Tibbs House acceptance terms. - Domestic charges and voluntary payments (donation, Pre‑Q donation, exam-related charges) are invoiced through the School's usual finance process and may be collected by periodic invoices, Parent Portal billing, or at time of event/course registration as appropriate. Parents are encouraged to use the Parent Portal for payments and invoicing. Boarding and accommodation fees - Tibbs House annual boarding fee: NZD 19,500 (published boarding fee). - Homestay for international students (where applicable): NZD 440 per week (NZD 20,240 based on 46 weeks). Homestay placement and monitoring fee NZD 450 per year; homestay change administration fee NZD 350 per change; homestay holding fee for Christmas closure NZD 350 where applicable; residential monitoring fee (Agent Homestay/Designated Caregiver/Live with Parent) NZD 400 per household. Other fixed and variable costs - School uniform (by Form): Form 3 uniform NZD 673; Form 4 uniform NZD 648; Form 5–7 uniform NZD 613. Stationery and art pack (Form 3) NZD 60 (subject dependent). - Extracurricular activity fee (refundable if unused): NZD 200. School camp fee (Form 4): NZD 695. - Travel and medical insurance for international students (external provider): NZD 633 per year. Additional stationery and specific uniform items: NZD 100–210 depending on subject. Extracurricular activity costs vary (examples given by the School range NZD 20 up to NZD 4,000 depending on activity). - External examination fees: NCEA standard examination fee NZD 383.30 per year (where applicable); Cambridge AS/A2 examination fees are charged per subject (example figure shown NZD 210.50 per subject) — domestic students are not invoiced for NCEA external entry in the same way as international students. - Voluntary School donation: published School donation for 2026 is NZD 1,825 (paid by many families to support additional school services and staff). The School accepts donations and other voluntary contributions via the standard payment methods. Refund information and fees protection - International tuition: there is generally no refund of tuition fees except in very exceptional circumstances. If withdrawal occurs prior to arrival in New Zealand, fees paid will be refunded in full minus a NZD 1,000 administration fee. Once a student has arrived and commenced study, no refund is made except where the student is required to return home due to serious illness or the bereavement of an immediate family member; in such cases refunds are calculated according to the Board's procedures addressing costs already incurred. No refunds are made for dismissal due to misconduct, poor attendance, poor performance, withdrawal to transfer schools, visa cancellation, or if the student becomes a permanent resident after enrolment. The School operates a fees protection procedure for international fees paid in advance. - Homestay fees: homestay fees are refundable in proportion to unused weeks, less two weeks' written notice and less placement/monitoring fees and any other prescribed fees. Fee payment options - Parent Portal (online billing and payments) is the School's preferred channel for many routine payments and invoicing. Additional accepted payment methods include: - Cash, credit card or EFTPOS at the School Finance Office. - Internet banking to the School account (example banking reference used by the School: 12-3011-0156506-00 with instructions to reference the student's name and form class). Cheques may be sent to Auckland Grammar School (Private Bag address) where required. Notes on scholarships and fee variations - Tibbs House offers a small number of boarding scholarships (full or partial) that reduce or cover boarding fees for selected recipients; scholarship availability and application conditions are published by the School. Boarding fees and other charges are reviewed annually and may change in subsequent years.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements The school provides Tibbs House boarding. Tibbs House opened in 1962 to enable boys outside the Grammar zone to attend Auckland Grammar School. Tibbs House can accommodate up to 125 boarders from Form 3 to Form 7 and is supported by a dedicated boarding staff and student leaders.
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement Uniform is worn by students in Years 1–12; Year 13 may wear mufti within a dress code. Uniforms can be ordered online from NZ Uniforms.	Uniform requirement The uniform is compulsory for all students. The official uniform includes navy regulation shorts and a navy regulation shirt with long sleeves, a black leather belt, long plain black socks with garters, black hard leather lace-up shoes, and a navy pullover with two gold bands and the Auckland Grammar lion; brown leather sandals with a back strap may be worn in Terms 1 and 4; Physical Education uniform is required for Forms 3 and 4 and is sold by the School Shop, which is on Floor D of the Main Block and also sells stationery and sports gear.
Food options	Food options Cafeteria food is available on site and includes options for all dietary requirements and preferences. Lunch and snacks are available at interval and lunchtime, and ordering and payment are simple.	Food options Food options are provided through the on-site tuck shop and School Shop; The 2026 Food and Nutrition Policy states that food served within the School Tuck Shop, Tibbs House, and Staff Common Room cafeteria provides a range of healthy options. Boarders may make or order their lunch, and dinner is served in the Tibbs House Dining Hall from 5:15pm to 5:55pm.
House system	House system All students belong to a house and a house-based tutor group. Tutor groups are structured so Years 7–8 are together and Years 9–13 are together, enabling age-appropriate wellbeing content and leadership development. Siblings are allocated the same tutor group.	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership ACG Strathallan is part of Inspired Education Group.	Governance and ownership The School is governed by the Auckland Grammar School Headmasters Council, with governance historically anchored by a Board of Trustees. The 2024 Auckland Grammar School Annual Audit notes that The Auckland Grammar Schools Combined Trust has been wound up and assets transferred to the Auckland Grammar School Headmasters Council as at 1 July 2024.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details Cambridge International programmes form the core curriculum from Primary through College, with some inspiration from the New Zealand NCEA from Primary level onwards. The Cambridge core curriculum supports Cambridge IGCSE and A-Levels and aims to develop an international mindset and qualifications that open university opportunities worldwide. From Early Learning to College, teachers bring out each student's abilities, and the school emphasizes creative and critical thinking, a positive work ethic and a love of learning that prepares students for global study. Learning is supported by extensive sports, arts and technology programmes and modern facilities that enhance the academic experience.	Curriculum details Auckland Grammar School offers a dual qualifications pathway with the New Zealand National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA) and Cambridge International Examinations (AS and A Levels). From Form 6 onwards, students choose either Cambridge or NCEA as a coherent two-year programme leading to Form 7 examinations and University Entrance. Form 5 introduces the Pre-Q programme to bridge the move to senior Cambridge AS Level and NZQA Level 2 courses. Full details of the pathways, progression criteria, subject options and University Entrance are contained in the Course Handbook issued annually. Languages offered include French, Japanese, Spanish and Te Reo Māori. The school operates a seven-period day (eight periods on Tuesdays) and uses GrammarNet as its learning management system; School Examinations are held three times a year to classify students into appropriate classes.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results ACG Strathallan reports a 100% pass rate in Cambridge International examinations for the eighth consecutive year, with a significant proportion of work earning A* or A grades and Cambridge Awards including Top in the World. The school highlights Top in the World recognitions and strong performance across subjects, reflecting its Cambridge IGCSE and A-Level outcomes.	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression 90% of ACG Strathallan students are accepted to their first-choice university in New Zealand and abroad, reflecting strong university admissions support and connection to top international universities.	Higher education progression University Entrance is the minimum standard for entry to New Zealand universities and can be gained through either the Cambridge or the NCEA pathway. Admission to many university courses, particularly restricted-entry programmes, depends on achieving higher grades and meeting subject requirements as detailed in the Course Handbook.
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented New Zealand Scholarships are available for Auckland Grammar School students, with a wide range of options to support tertiary study. Careers and Counselling staff assist students with scholarship questions and applications.
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning Care and wellbeing for all students from Preschool to College; the environment is warm, safe and nurturing, guided by core values of pride, respect, integrity and compassion. The Vertical Tutor System places students in house tutor groups from Year 7–13 to foster mentorship and leadership, with tutors supporting students and coordinating extra help when needed. External counselling and literacy/learning support are available as part of pastoral care.	Social & emotional learning The school has a Counselling team with NZAC membership providing a safe, confidential environment for students. The counselling program helps develop skills for living, including problem solving, anger management, decision making, motivation, effective communication, and identity/self-discovery. It offers career guidance and support with issues such as alcohol/drug concerns, stress, relationship difficulties, grief and loss, coping with change, fear and anxiety, and it can arrange contact with outside agencies when necessary. The service includes both individual and group sessions, and the school provides wellbeing resources such as SchoolTV and access to external helplines for additional support as needed.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) Learning Support is provided at Preschool with access to special education and speech-language therapists, early intervention staff, psychologists and occupational therapists, and work with the B4 School team and the Ministry of Health Vision and Hearing Team. In Primary, deans support students and progress is monitored, with opportunities for family input. In College, Learning Support is available for diagnosed needs, including teacher assistants and individual reader/writer support for examinations.	Special educational needs (SEN) The Learning Support Department provides an inclusive learning environment and focuses on removing barriers to learning to enable participation, progress and achievement. Needs are identified through standardized assessments, teacher referrals, classroom observations, information from contributing schools and external agencies, and whānau input. Barriers to learning include neurodiversity, organisational and executive functioning challenges, low confidence or engagement, attention and behaviour needs, and gaps in prior learning; interventions are implemented early to address these. Provision includes differentiated support within mainstream classrooms, targeted literacy and numeracy instruction, explicit learning strategies and self-management skills, organisational support, and collaboration with staff to adapt programmes and assessments. The department emphasises student wellbeing and engagement and regularly reviews goals and interventions to ensure effectiveness.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language Intensive English Programme supports students whose first language is not English, run by specialist English language teachers with regular assessments to track progress. Some students may need to develop elementary and intermediate English before joining mainstream classes.	English as an additional language The English Language Department assists students from non-English speaking backgrounds, with specialist staff teaching the English language needed for achievement across all curriculum areas. Senior ESOL classes prepare students to gain NCEA Literacy and University Entrance Literacy, and Forms 6 and 7 offer English courses with support for academic vocabulary development and grammar. Form 4 ESOL continues cross-curricular language support, while Form 5 ESOL focuses on fluency, accuracy, and targeted grammar and vocabulary development to prepare for NCEA English Level 2. The English language learning progression is used to monitor development, and students may continue ESOL into Form 6 or join mainstream English as appropriate; Form 7 ESOL can lead to NCEA Level 3 English or other pathways.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Pastoral care underpins wellbeing with a caring, supportive environment and staff who monitor student welfare. SchoolTV provides wellbeing resources for families to support student mental health and resilience.	Mental wellbeing The Health Centre provides a healthy and safe environment for all students, and the Student Services team offers confidential counselling to support students' wellbeing. The counselling service covers a range of issues including stress, relationships, and personal well-being, with the option to interact with outside agencies when needed. The school provides a range of wellbeing resources and helplines for support outside school hours, and SchoolTV offers additional wellbeing content to assist students and families. Students can access counselling services on a self-referral basis, with staff and parents able to support referrals when appropriate.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding Safeguarding is embedded in school life through core values that underpin behaviour, and a pastoral structure with Deans responsible for welfare, academic progress and personal development. International students have a dedicated dean; the school aims to maintain a safe, welcoming environment.	Safeguarding The school has a Child Protection policy approved in 2023 that commits to the well-being and safety of students and provides guidelines for identifying, reporting and responding to child abuse and neglect by staff and contractors. The policy is aligned with the Children's Act 2014 and the Education (Pastoral Care of International Learners) Code of Practice 2021, and applies to staff, volunteers and students. The designated person responsible for overseeing and reviewing child protection policies is the Associate Headmaster – Operations, with responsibilities laid out for the Board and Headmaster to ensure safe practices, confidentiality, and timely reporting. The policy emphasises a culture of reporting concerns, safeguarding rights of families, and ongoing professional development to support child protection responsibilities.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview ACG Strathallan's campus sits on 15 hectares on the Hingaia Peninsula in Karaka, beside a tidal inlet. The campus has dedicated areas for Early Learning, Primary and College. Students have specialist spaces for science, design & technology, music, drama and sport, all supported by campus-wide connectivity. All classrooms are well-equipped and there are different outdoor playing and activity areas. The cafeteria, library and study centre, and fully-equipped labs and specialist rooms for science, ICT, technology, music and art support daily learning.	Facilities overview The school has a purpose-built Centennial Theatre at the heart of the campus with seating for 360 for performances and events, though it is closed indefinitely for external hire. Te Ara Mātauranga is the School Library opened in March 2024, providing extensive print and digital resources and staffed by professional librarians. Computer Suites offer state-of-the-art technology with on-site IT support, high-speed network access and flexible classroom layouts. The campus includes six grass sports fields (three Rugby, three Football) plus an all-weather Hockey Turf and a lower artificial turf, with two cricket wickets. Tibbs House is the on-site boarding facility and Venturelodge in Ohakune offers accommodation for groups, alongside spaces such as the Old Boys' Pavilion, Hockey Pavilion and the Heritage Room.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities Students have access to an international-standard hockey turf, a large gymnasium and fitness centre, a sports and performing arts hall, and a multi-purpose turf. There are high-quality football and rugby fields for team sports. There are outdoor playing and activity areas and a theatre for performances and events. The campus includes tennis and netball courts and an aerobics room to support a wide range of activities. Indoor and outdoor facilities support a broad spectrum of sports.	Sports facilities Auckland Grammar School has six grass fields: three full-sized Rugby fields on the top level and three Football fields on the lower level, with the top-level fields designated for the 1st XV Rugby and Colts Cricket teams and the lower fields for the 1st XI Cricket and Football teams. The all-weather Hockey Turf at the corner of Clive and Normanby Roads is used for practice and games and is also used extensively by outside groups in summer and winter. The Lower Artificial Turf is used for Football, Rugby and Touch Rugby. There are two cricket wickets—one by the Lower Pavilion and the second on the top fields.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities All classrooms are well-equipped. Fully-equipped labs and specialist rooms support science, ICT, technology, music and art. There are dedicated spaces for science, design & technology, music, drama and sport. Campus-wide connectivity supports digital learning. Each school stage – Early Learning, Primary and College – has its own dedicated area.	Academic facilities Te Ara Mātauranga is the School Library opened in March 2024. It supports a rigorous academic education and literacy engagement with over 19,000 resources across fiction, non-fiction, magazines, study guides, ebooks and audiobooks. The library is staffed by three professional librarians and offers 36 desktop computers, two soundproof classrooms with Chromebooks, and two small soundproof collaborative meeting rooms, plus printing, scanning and photocopying facilities. The library subscribes to electronic databases for curriculum use and borrowing terms allow books to be borrowed for 28 days and graphic novels for 14 days. Computer Suites provide state-of-the-art IT technology with dedicated on-site IT support, high-speed internet, secure networks and a Tutor computer connected to projectors and sound systems, with laptop and Mac labs.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities At ACG Strathallan, students benefit from facilities that support sports, arts and enrichment activities. The sports program uses football and rugby fields, an international-standard hockey turf, tennis and netball courts, an aerobics room, a sports hall, and a complete gymnasium. Drama is supported by the campus theatre and specialist rooms, with large-scale drama and musical productions each year. Visual arts and Design & Technology are taught as part of a broad arts program. The school offers a wide range of clubs and music groups, including Chess Club, Debating, Model UN, Duke of Edinburgh, Film Club, Photography Club and several ensembles.	Extra curricular facilities Extracurricular activities cover sport, performing arts and culture. A wide range of sports is offered year-round, including archery, athletics, badminton, basketball, chess, cricket, cycling, fencing, football, golf, hockey, rugby, skiing, snowboarding, squash, swimming, table tennis, tennis, touch rugby, volleyball, water polo and more. Performing Arts groups provide tuition and performance opportunities, with major productions, theatre and events such as the Winter Concert Series. Cultural groups include Kapa Haka, Pasifika, Sri Lankan, Korean, Asian and Indian communities. Instrumental and singing lessons are delivered by itinerant teachers for many instruments and there are opportunities to participate in drama, theatre and production. Registration for summer sports and many groups begins in the first weeks of Term 1, with winter sports registrations occurring later in Term 1.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History —	History Auckland Grammar School was endowed by Governor Sir George Grey in 1850 to educate all New Zealanders. It opened in 1869 at Howe Street with 78 boys. During the 1880s Depression, girls from the Girls' High School joined Auckland College and Grammar School, and in 1909 Auckland Girls' Grammar School opened, after which Auckland Grammar School became an all-boys school. The Mountain Road site was acquired between 1911 and 1913. During World War I a major building program produced the Spanish Mission-style Main Block and a War Memorial honoring those who served and died in World War I and II.
Community	Community Nestled on 15 hectares beside a tidal inlet in Karaka, Auckland, the campus hosts Early Learning through College with dedicated spaces for each stage. Each school stage—Preschool, Primary and College—has its own area with specialist spaces for science, design and technology, music, drama, and sport. The Cambridge International curriculum is offered from Primary to College, with a co-educational environment and a values framework that includes Pride, Integrity, Respect and Compassion. ACG Strathallan is an Inspired school, following Inspired's three-pillar approach of academics, performing and creative arts, and sports, and provides Global Camps and Global Exchanges; Cambridge results include a 100% pass rate in recent years and Top in World/Top in New Zealand awards.	Community There are a myriad of opportunities to perform through music and cultural groups, productions and debating. Music Groups and Cultural Groups, Theatresports, and the major School Production (Les Misérables in 2026) are part of the arts program. The Auckland Grammar School Haka was written in the early 2000s by elders of Ngāti Whātua. The Old Boys' Association and the Augusta Fellowship are long‑standing community bodies; the Old Boys' Association celebrated its quasquicentenary (125 years) in 2018, and the Development Office and Foundation Trust support fundraising. The Heritage Room documents the school's history and includes eight wall panels describing the early history.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association —	Parent teacher association Auckland Grammar School runs a Parent Portal to give parents access to information about their sons, including attendance, marks and reports. The Portal also enables online payments for the School donation and other fees. The Portal includes an Absence Notification function for day-to-day attendance. The school publishes a 2025/2026 Parents Handbook and Form 3 Parents information to assist families. The Auckland Grammar School Old Boys' Association was founded in 1893 and the Augusta Fellowship is the School's bequest society; governance and fundraising involve these groups and the Development Office rather than a standalone Parent-Teacher Association.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual ACG Strathallan follows the Cambridge International Pathway from primary through Year 13. Cambridge IGCSE is offered in Years 10–11 and AS & A-Levels are offered in Years 12–13. The curriculum covers English, Mathematics, Science, Social Sciences, Languages (Mandarin and Spanish), ICT/Coding, Art & Design, Music, Drama, Design & Technology, and Physical Education, among other subjects. The Cambridge pathway is delivered by specialist teachers and there is dedicated university guidance; Cambridge outcomes are strong, with a 99% pass rate in A‑Levels and multiple Cambridge International Awards.	Academic & intellectual Debating is a prominent extracurricular at Auckland Grammar School. The Auckland Schools Debating Competition is the largest regular debating competition in New Zealand. Chess is offered as a sport within the school's extracurricular program.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative ACG Strathallan provides a vibrant creative and performing arts programme. The campus theatre and specialist rooms support drama and large-scale productions, and the music program offers instrumental study and groups such as Chamber Ensemble, Choir, Jazz Band, Jazz Ensemble, Orchestra/Concert Band and Production Band. Students study Art & Design, Design & Technology, Music, Dance and Drama as part of the curriculum, with an annual College drama production. A wide range of arts clubs and performances enriches the arts experience.	Arts & creative The Arts and Cultural Activities program provides wide opportunities for music, theatre and performance. Music groups include Big Band, Concert Band, Chamber Music ensembles, Grammarphonics, Grammar Virtuosi, Grammar Voices, Jazz Combo, Pipe Band and Drum Corps, Rock Bands, Symphony Orchestra and Wind Band. Most groups are auditioned and require proficiency, with itinerant lessons available in a wide range of instruments. Dramatic opportunities include Major Productions, Student Run Productions and Theatresports; the 2026 Major Production is Les Misérables, in collaboration with Epsom Girls' Grammar School.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language Mandarin and Spanish are taught in Years 7–10, with continuation options in Year 11. The school hosts a variety of language- and culture-related clubs, including Culture & Language Ambassadors, Korean Language Club, Chinese Cards and Chinese Cultural Fun Club. A broad array of multicultural events complements language learning, supported by the Inspired global network of schools.	Cultural & language Cultural Groups reflect the diverse Grammar community, including Kapa Haka, Pasifika, Sri Lankan, Korean, Asian and Indian groups. Groups showcase heritage through assemblies, cultural evenings and local competitions. The School Haka was written in the early 2000s by elders of Ngāti Whātua. The Arts and Cultural Activities program includes a range of music and drama opportunities and there are myriad opportunities to perform through music and cultural groups, productions and debating.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies There is a wide range of clubs and activities, including Art Club, Astronomy Club, Board Games, Book Club, Chess Club, Debating, Model UN, Dungeons & Dragons, Film Club, Photography, Short Story Club and Writing Club, among others. Music groups and theatre productions provide extensive opportunities for social and artistic involvement outside class. Participation in clubs fosters friendships, leadership, teamwork and personal growth.	Social & hobbies A wide range of sports is offered year-round, including archery, athletics, chess, cycling, mountain biking, rowing, rugby, hockey, football, cricket, water polo and more. Registration for summer and winter sports is handled in the first weeks of Term 1, with pre-registration for some teams to support planning. In addition to sport, Performing Arts groups and cultural groups provide social and hobby-based activities. Theatresports and Major Productions offer team-based creative activity beyond the classroom.
Community & service	Community & service ACG Strathallan runs the Citizenship Award for Years 7 and 8, focusing on Service, Skill, Participation and Exploration with bronze, silver and gold levels. Students record their participation online, supported by tutors and Year 7–8 deans. The school also conducts fundraising and charity events to strengthen community ties and social responsibility, reflecting the Inspired emphasis on giving back.	Community & service The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award is offered at Auckland Grammar School with Bronze, Silver and Gold levels. The Award requires four core sections: Physical Recreation, Skill Development, Voluntary Service, and an Adventurous Journey; at Gold, participants also undertake a Residential Project. The programme is open to Form 4 to Form 7 students. Through participation, students cultivate commitment, self-awareness, initiative, self-confidence, determination and motivation, while developing leadership and teamwork skills.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional A Leadership Day for Years 12 and 13 provides team-building activities, tutor coordination and experiences from former students to help guide choices about tertiary life and careers. The Citizenship Award offers leadership development through its four components, and the senior years include university and career guidance to help secure future opportunities. Leadership and service are core pillars of the Inspired educational approach used at Strathallan.	Leadership & professional The school appoints a Prefect Team to help lead the student body, including a Head Prefect, Deputy Head Prefect and Senior Prefects. Senior students serve in a range of leadership roles across school life, including involvement in Interact, MUNA, Grammarphonics, Grammar Voices and Major Production casts. The Prefect Team is complemented by a broad spectrum of student leadership across clubs and committees.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing The Strathallan campus sits on a tranquil 15-hectare site with expansive grounds and purpose-built facilities, including a modern library and study centre, science labs, ICT, music, drama and art rooms, a cafeteria, a gymnasium and extensive sports facilities. The Wellbeing pillar provides tutor and house-system support to create a safe, supportive environment that balances academics with sport and the arts. The holistic, well-rounded approach emphasizes wellbeing alongside academic and co-curricular achievement.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Extracurricular activities are regarded as an important part of a young man's personal development. Facilities are world-class, providing a strong foundation for every boy who wants to immerse themselves in extracurricular activities. Pastoral care and health and well-being support are available to students. Camps provide opportunities to develop leadership and teamwork skills.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision All students are taught in English. English language learner (ELL) support is available for international students. Some Cambridge English language options exist; some students study an English Second Language programme instead of IGCSE English Language and English Literature. Spanish or Chinese are offered as language options in Years 7–10.	Language provision Languages offered at Auckland Grammar School include French, Japanese, Spanish and Te Reo Māori. These languages are taught within the school curriculum. Language study is integrated with other subjects.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs Complete Language Immersion is a core aspect of the Inspired Global Exchange Programme. The programme supports development of bilingual or multilingual skills. Participants have the chance to study at 21 Inspired schools across 10 countries, providing extensive language immersion experiences. This immersion experience fosters language proficiency and cross-cultural understanding.	Immersion programs Short-term international student enrolments have access to a full language immersion and cultural exchange experience.
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards 2023 Outstanding Cambridge Learner Awards – 10 awards; Top in World (2); Top in New Zealand (4); High Achievement (4). Best Across Three A-Level subjects award; Best Across Four AS-Level subjects award. Top in World Cambridge International AS-Level Digital Media and Design – Misha Uthayakumar (November 2023). Top in New Zealand Cambridge International AS-Level Computer Science – Amanjot Kaur (November 2023). Top in New Zealand Cambridge IGCSE Biology – Sophia Polansky (November 2023). Top in New Zealand Cambridge IGCSE Physics – Annie Gai (November 2023). Top in New Zealand Cambridge IGCSE Design and Technology – Lizzy Swendson (November 2023). High Achievement Cambridge International AS-Level English Language – Hannah Twisleton (November 2023). Top in World Cambridge International AS-Level Mathematics – Amanjot Kaur (June 2023). High Achievement Cambridge International AS-Level English Language – David Grey (June 2023). High Achievement Cambridge International AS-Level Business Studies – Lauren Aylward (June 2023). High Achievement Cambridge International IGCSE Level Chinese Language – Chloe Li (June 2023). Top in World Cambridge International AS-Level Mathematics – Amanjot Kaur (June 2023). Top in World in 2024 Cambridge Awards – Travis Tong (2024) Top in World in IGSCE Design and Technology. Top in New Zealand IGSCE Classical Studies – Pixie De Monchy (2024). High Achievement in AS Levels Language – Pixie De Monchy (2024). Top in New Zealand IGCSE ICT – Jeremy Louw (2024). Top in New Zealand IGCSE Global Perspectives – Alyssa Cooper (2024). Cambridge Awards received, including 1 Top in the World (2024).	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations Cambridge International Examinations (Cambridge Curriculum) – Cambridge curriculum and examination provider used by ACG Strathallan; enables Cambridge qualifications recognized by universities worldwide.	Accreditations —
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions Applications are submitted online via the admissions pages. Mid-year starts are welcome and accepted at any time, but spaces are limited. After the application is received, families are invited to an interview with the Principal to discuss needs and fit. An Offer Letter is issued after assessing the application; a level of English fluency is required to understand classroom instruction, with ESOL support available for students whose first language is not English. The result of the application is notified within seven days of the interview. If a place is offered, acceptance must be confirmed in writing and the acceptance fee paid.	Admissions International student admissions follow a six-step process. 1) Complete the Application Form. The form is submitted through the online system (enroller.app). An application is a prerequisite for admission but not a guarantee of admission, and the school acknowledges receipt after submission. 2) Attend an Admission Interview. The interview is conducted via WeChat, Zoom, Skype or in‑person and lasts about 15 minutes; it is an opportunity to learn more about the applicant's interests and goals, and for parents to ask questions. 3) Receive an Offer of Place. The Offer specifies the year level and the start and end dates of enrolment and includes the International Student Tuition Agreement and other relevant policies. 4) Accept the Offer. Tuition and homestay fees are paid to the School; the Tuition Agreement, Code of Conduct, Statement of Designated Caregiver Arrangements/ or Homestay Contract, ICT Acceptable Use Policy and Health Record are signed and returned to acknowledge acceptance. 5) Apply for a Student Visa. The student or their representative must apply online for a New Zealand student visa and ensure a valid visa before enrolment. 6) Attend Orientation. The student attends Orientation as part of the enrolment process.
Scholarships	Scholarships ACG Strathallan provides scholarships to new students in Years 7 to 13 (11 to 18 years old) in Academic, Sports and Performing Arts (Music and Drama). Scholarships cover part of tuition fees and are awarded for ability, work ethic and performance. 2027 Scholarship Application Dates: Closing Date Thursday 2 April 2026; Interviews for 2027 in Term 1 and Term 2 2026. Scholarships have a maximum value of up to 20% of tuition fees. An online admissions application must accompany scholarship applications, and a full student CV is required. Performing Arts scholarships require a link to a 3–5 minute video; applicants should demonstrate leadership, commitment and communication and be active in the co-curricular life of the school; scholarships are subject to annual review and may be withdrawn for unsatisfactory performance. The ACG Founders Scholarship honours the founders of ACG; since 2018, one scholarship has been awarded annually to a current student planning to start a university course the following year, and it may be held with other awards. Sibling Scholarships apply to large families; if four children attend simultaneously, the youngest may receive a full tuition scholarship; a scholarship of 25% of total fees may be awarded to families with five or more children. Nsouli Scholars Programme enables up to 50 students at Inspired schools to attend on full scholarship at any one time, including Lebanese-origin recipients.	Scholarships Auckland Grammar School offers four Tibbs House boarding scholarships: Cooper-Connell Boarding Scholarship (for applicants outside the Grammar zone; half boarding at Tibbs House for up to five years, renewable). Sir John Buchanan Boarding Scholarship (for Year 8 entrants; full five-year boarding). Sports Scholarship (for an outstanding sportsman; full or partial Tibbs House boarding). ASAP Finance Pathway Scholarship (for applicants outside the zone with financial hardship and leadership potential; scholarship applications must be posted as a hardcopy form; note that the ASAP Pathway Scholarship is closed for 2027).
Waitlist	Waitlist —	Waitlist Out-of-zone places are allocated by priority groups and then by ballot when there are more applicants than places. The School publishes the likely number of out-of-zone places and the ballot dates each year. In the 2027 Out-of-Zone ballot held on 9 September 2026, all Form 3 priority applicants were offered places; Form 4–7 priority applicants were placed on waitlists, and the School will contact waitlist applicants directly if places become available.
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