Diocesan School for Girls vs Saint Kentigern College

	D Diocesan School for Girls Auckland, New Zealand	S Saint Kentigern College Auckland, New Zealand
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year NZ$22,832 - 53,941	Fees / year NZ$28,422 - 51,232
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 11 - 18 years
Type	Type Girls School, Girls School (boarding)	Type Co-educational, Co-educational (boarding)
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (DP), IB (MYP), Bespoke Curriculum	Curriculum IB (DP), Bespoke Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 1,700	Pupils 2,325
Typical class size	Typical class size 20	Typical class size 24
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 1903	Opened 1953
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service No
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location The Diocesan School for Girls is located in Epsom, Auckland. The Clyde Street address places it in a residential suburb near the city fringe. Seven buses transport students from across Auckland to the school gates each day, with GPS-tracked routes and a pay-as-you-ride system using student IDs. The campus is accessible to a diverse families via these transport arrangements.	Location Pakuranga Campus, 130 Pakuranga Road, Pakuranga, Auckland, New Zealand. The campus sits in the Pakuranga area of Auckland and is part of Saint Kentigern College. Directions and bus information are available to assist travel to the campus.
Stages	Stages Preschool to Year 13; Junior School Preschool - Year 6; Junior High School Years 7-10; Senior High School Years 11-13; Boarding Years 7-13.	Stages Years 7-13 (ages 11-18)
School type	School type Independent Anglican all-girls day and boarding school	School type —
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support —	Additional learning support —
Country affiliation	Country affiliation New Zealand	Country affiliation New Zealand
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation Anglican	Religious affiliation Presbyterian
School day structure	School day structure —	School day structure —
Bus service details	Bus service details Seven buses operate daily, transporting over 300 girls from across Auckland to the school gates. Buses are GPS-tracked, reach by 8am, and depart Dio at 3:40pm. Routes include Eastern, Grey Lynn/Herne Bay, Pt Chevalier/Herne Bay, Glendowie/St Heliers, Stonefields, Mt Roskill/Mt Eden, Helensville, Devonport Shuttle and other connections.	Bus service details Bus information is available for the Pakuranga Campus.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Registration and Enrolment Fees - Registration fee: NZD 300.00 (all applications). This fee is non‑refundable. - Enrolment (acceptance) fee: NZD 1,750.00 (all year levels). This fee is additional to tuition and is non‑refundable. Tuition fees by year group (2026 academic year amounts) - Foundation Class (Preschool): NZD 619.89 per week with ECE contribution; NZD 704.89 per week without ECE contribution. For four‑day attendance the published amounts are NZD 478.92 (with ECE) and NZD 563.92 (without ECE). - Junior School (Year 1–Year 6): NZD 26,786.00 per annum; billed as NZD 6,696.50 per term (quarter). - Junior High and Senior High (Year 7–Year 13): NZD 30,916.00 per annum; billed as NZD 7,729.00 per term (quarter). - Building levy (Foundation–Year 13): NZD 800.00 per annum; NZD 200.00 per term. This is charged in addition to tuition. Course / subject fees (per student, where applicable) - Foundation Class: NZD 125.00 per year. - Junior School (Year 1–6): NZD 330.00 per year. - Year 7: NZD 335.00 per year. - Year 8: NZD 330.00 per year (additional NZD 40 for Art Pack if required). - Year 9: NZD 265.00 per year (some subjects such as Material Design, Food Design and Visual Arts carry additional costs). - Year 10: NZD 330.00 per year (additional subject costs apply for certain practical subjects). - Senior High (Years 11–13): Course fees vary by subject and options; individual senior option/course fees apply. Boarding fees - Innes House boarding (Years 9–13): NZD 21,960.00 per annum; NZD 5,490.00 per term (quarter). Boarding is an additional charge to day tuition. Other regular or likely costs (examples and how they are billed) - Incidental and activity charges: stationery, class trips, photographs, laptop charges, sports activities, outdoor education, specialist subject materials, and Parents & Friends Association subscriptions are charged in addition to tuition and are invoiced termly as required. - Uniform and clothing: items are sold through the school shop; typical item prices (guides) include examples such as a school blazer (around NZD 240), Dio hoodie (around NZD 85), house T‑shirt (around NZD 32), swimwear (from about NZD 75–85), and other items. Uniform prices are indicative and subject to change. Uniform purchases and any returns/exchanges are handled through the school shop. - Alumnae Association one‑off fee on entry: NZD 700.00 (non‑refundable). Billing schedule and payment terms - Billing frequency options: quarterly billing (per term), annually in advance, or ten monthly instalments (automatic payments). Accounts are normally paid by direct debit/automatic payment. - Payment methods accepted: direct debit/automatic payment and internet banking (bank transfer). Credit cards and EFTPOS are not available for fee payments. The school provides bank account details for internet banking on account documentation. - Accounts are due on receipt of invoice. Parents are required to maintain current payment arrangements; unpaid accounts may incur collection costs or interest and may result in required withdrawal until fees are brought up to date. Refunds and withdrawal notice (domestic and general rules) - Registration and enrolment (acceptance) fees are non‑refundable. - Notice of withdrawal: a minimum of one term's written notice to the Principal is required to withdraw a student; if proper notice is not given, one term's fees are payable in lieu of notice. Fees remain due even if a student is unable to attend at the start of term for any reason. The Board does not undertake to remit or refund fees in lieu of notice for illness, quarantine, or other causes. - Fee Protection Scheme: on payment of the first term's fees, a Fee Protection Scheme is included which, in cases of the death or terminal illness of a fee‑paying parent or guardian (subject to conditions and age limits), provides for payment of fees for the remainder of the student's education; this scheme does not cover incidental charges and does not apply to international students. Refunds and cancellation rules for international students - International student refund entitlements and procedures differ and are governed by the school's International Student Fees Policy. Refunds for voluntary withdrawal, failure to obtain a visa, or cancellation by the school have specified timeframes and minimum tuition‑fee deductions (for example minimum ten weeks' tuition in some circumstances) and require written notice; detailed conditions and refund calculations are set out in the International Student Fees Policy. Practical notes on invoicing and account administration - Invoices are issued for fees and additional termly incidental charges; the school expects payment arrangements (direct debit/automatic payment) to be in place. Only one invoice is issued per student; if a third party is nominated to pay fees, that person remains additionally responsible unless otherwise agreed. Unpaid accounts may be subject to collection action. Summary of key headline amounts (NZD) - Registration fee: NZD 300.00 (non‑refundable). - Enrolment (acceptance) fee: NZD 1,750.00 (non‑refundable). - Junior School (Y1–Y6): NZD 26,786.00 per annum / NZD 6,696.50 per term. - Year 7–13 (day tuition): NZD 30,916.00 per annum / NZD 7,729.00 per term. - Boarding (Innes House): NZD 21,960.00 per annum / NZD 5,490.00 per term. If you require a compact extract of just the numeric fee lines (for database fields) those figures above correspond to the school's published 2026 fee schedule and the international fee policy for international‑student refund rules.	Fee details Enrolment and application fees - APPLICATION FEE: NZD 300.00 (payable when submitting an application; non-refundable). - ACCEPTANCE FEE (enrolment confirmation): NZD 500.00 (invoiced when a place is offered; non-refundable). - ASSOCIATION FEE (lifetime Alumni / Parents & Friends membership): NZD 775.00 (invoiced on offer; non-refundable). - CONTRIBUTION LEVY (all students): NZD 1,500.00 (invoiced on offer). Tuition fees — College (Years 9–13) - Annual tuition fee (applies to College students): NZD 28,422.00 per year. - Per term (calculated): NZD 7,105.50 per term (annual tuition divided by four). (This per-term figure is a calculation based on the published annual tuition.) - Per month if using the 10-month instalment plan (calculated): NZD 2,842.20 per month (annual tuition divided by 10). (This per‑month figure is a calculation based on the published annual tuition and the school's 10‑month instalment option.) Boarding fees (Bruce House) - Annual boarding fee (term time only): NZD 21,810.00 per year. Boarding fees are charged in addition to tuition. - Per term (calculated): NZD 5,452.50 per term (annual boarding fee divided by four). (Per‑term figure is a calculation.) - Boarding does not include tuition; weekly and full‑term boarding options are available within the boarding programme. Other compulsory and typical costs - SOFTWARE LICENCE FEE (one-off): NZD 250.00. - PUBLICATIONS FEE (annual, approximate): NZD 200.00. - UNIFORM (approximate cost for newly enrolled students to obtain full uniform): NZD 1,300.00 (approx). Second‑hand options may reduce this cost. - LAPTOP BUNDLE: Variable — an approved laptop bundle (device, accidental damage cover, extended warranty, carry case) is required from Year 6 and is available through the school's preferred supplier. - IB DIPLOMA CHARGE (for students taking the IB in Years 12–13): NZD 1,000.00 per year (charged in instalments where indicated). - ADDITIONAL CURRICULUM / SUBJECT COSTS: Variable — extra charges may apply depending on year level and subject selection (examples: specialist subject levies, field trips, workbooks, camps, overnight excursions, external exam fees). - SPORTS / CO-CURRICULAR TRIP COSTS: Variable — charges depend on participation and event. - BUS FARES: Variable — fares depend on route and distance; route and fare details are updated each year. Billing schedule and payment terms - Domestic (NZ) accounts: All accounts require payment by Direct Debit unless tuition is paid in full under the early‑payment options. Direct Debits (including incidentals) are processed on the 20th of each month (January to December). - Early payment discounts: - Full payment in advance by 05 December of the prior year: 1.5% discount on net tuition. - Full payment by 20 January: 0.9% discount on net tuition. - Instalment option: Tuition may be spread over 10 months (February to November) by Direct Debit; incidentals may be direct‑debited January–December. - Overdue and transaction charges: Interest on overdue balances may be charged at 1% per month. Payments made by credit card incur a 2% surcharge. Dishonoured payments attract a dishonour fee (NZD 20). - International student billing: Annual international tuition and boarding costs are billed in November of the year before entry and are payable in a single lump sum by the end of November; a paid receipt is required to support a student visa application. Refunds, notice and withdrawal - APPLICATION, ACCEPTANCE and ASSOCIATION FEES are non‑refundable. - If a student is unable to attend at the beginning of a term, fees remain due; the Trust Board does not undertake to remit or refund fees for illness, quarantine, or other causes. - NOTICE OF WITHDRAWAL: A minimum of one term's written notice to the College Principal is required to withdraw a student (day or boarder). Without correct notice, full fees for the following term will be charged in lieu of notice. - FEE PROTECTION: The Trust Board operates a Fee Protection Scheme that may cover tuition (and boarding where applicable) in the event of the death of a fee‑paying parent or legal guardian; entry is automatic upon payment of the first fee instalment and eligibility restrictions apply. Sibling discounts and concessions - SIBLING DISCOUNT: 5% off tuition for two family members attending Saint Kentigern campuses; 10% off tuition where three or more family members attend. Students receiving scholarships or other concessions are not eligible for the sibling discount. Payment methods and practical notes - Direct Debit is the required method for ongoing billing and instalments. Credit card payments are accepted but attract a 2% surcharge. Overdue amounts may accrue interest. Dishonoured payments incur an NZD 20 fee. For international enrolments, annual tuition and boarding are billed and must be paid in full to provide a receipt for visa purposes. How additional charges are handled - Many costs beyond tuition and boarding (subject levies, EOTC camps, field trips, workbook charges, elective programme fees, sports tours) are variable and billed as required; these are direct‑debited as incidentals unless otherwise invoiced. Contacts for accounts and payments - Accounts / Finance contact for fee queries: accounts@saintkentigern.com ; Phone: +64 9 577 0747.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements Boarding at Dio accommodates up to 57 Year 9–13 students, including international students. Boarders live in four houses; Middle School residents stay in 4–6 dorm rooms and Senior students in twin shared rooms. A daily routine includes wake times of 6:45–7:20am, departure for school at 8:20am, hot lunch at 1:00pm and dinner at 5:30pm; middle-school study is supervised 6:30–7:30pm, while seniors study in their rooms. Bedtimes start from 9:30pm. Each wing has a bathroom and toilet for 6–7 girls, and wifi is available until 11pm. Boarding scholarships are available through Doris Innes House Trust, contributing up to 50% of boarding fees for up to five years.	Boarding arrangements Bruce House is the on-campus boarding facility for Saint Kentigern College students in Years 9–13 (ages 13–18). It is a small, welcoming hostel set in landscaped grounds with views of the Tamaki Estuary. Boarders benefit from supervised evening prep time and dedicated duty staff who are College teachers, with a diverse community that participates in College life, sport and cultural activities.
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement The uniform is blue, red and white and is worn across Foundation School, Junior School, Junior High School and Senior School. The summer uniform is worn in Terms 1 and 4 and the winter uniform in Terms 2 and 3. The Diocesan Shop is the exclusive stockist of the uniform, with second-hand options available and online ordering available. A new Junior High School uniform was introduced for 2025 and will be phased in over two years, fully in place by 2027.	Uniform requirement There are two daywear uniforms—Years 7–10 (Middle School) and Years 11–13 (Senior School)—with a formal uniform worn on Formal Friday during winter. Prefects wear kilts for formal occasions, and a separate sports uniform is worn for Physical Education. Uniform items are available from the on-site Mungo's Uniform Shop or online; sample sizes are available and second-hand uniforms can be purchased.
Food options	Food options Boarding meals include a hot lunch at 1:00pm and dinner at 5:30pm; meals are prepared in well-equipped kitchens and eaten in the dining facilities, with middle school meals taken in the main dining hall and senior students eating in their houses; wifi is available in the boarding houses until 11pm.	Food options Saint Kentigern Trust runs the Senior School Saints Café and the Middle School Kents Café, offering a range of healthy foods and drinks with much of the food prepared onsite and menus that change regularly. Saints Café operates before school, at interval, and at lunch from 7:00am to 2:00pm, with online ordering for collection through the OLE and charges to the parent account; orders must be placed by 9:00am. The Cafés accommodate dietary requirements and provide contact details for the Café Manager.
House system	House system Boarders live in four houses; rosters include setting tables for dinners and supporting staff with small tasks around the houses; middle school boarders reside in 4–6 dorm rooms while senior boarders occupy twin shared rooms.	House system All students belong to one of six houses: Cargill, Chalmers, Hamilton, Wishart, Stark, and Wilson. Within each house, students are organised into Tutor Groups, with Year 7–8 forming Form Classes. Heads of House oversee pastoral care within a tutor-based family structure across the College.
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership Diocesan School for Girls is an independent Anglican school governed by the Diocesan School Board of Governors. The governance board oversees the school to deliver the vision of being more than you imagined and supports a dual pathway through IB and NCEA, while maintaining the school's Anglican character through chaplaincy, service learning and religious studies.	Governance and ownership The Saint Kentigern Trust Board is the governing body for Saint Kentigern College and the four Saint Kentigern schools. It is an independent body with the power to appoint its members and was founded in 1949 to provide schools for boys in Auckland; the Trust Deed was amended in 1995 to educate girls as well. In 2009, the Corran and Saint Kentigern Trust Boards merged, with staffing and operations for the Girls' School campus brought under the Trust.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details Junior High School follows the New Zealand Curriculum; Senior High School offers two senior qualification pathways: the National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA) or the International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB). In 2025 Year 11 draws on Level 1 NCEA content and the NZ Curriculum to prepare for NCEA Levels 2 and 3 or the IB Diploma, providing a coherent pathway to either qualification.	Curriculum details The Senior School offers a broad range of subjects across Arts, Commerce, Humanities, Languages, Applied Mathematics, Sciences and Technology. In Year 11, every student undertakes the NCEA Level 1 qualification. In Years 12 and 13, students may choose between the International Baccalaureate Diploma and the New Zealand Qualifications Authority's NCEA. The IB Diploma is a two-year program with six subjects (three at Higher Level and three at Standard Level), one language as a second language, and core requirements of Extended Essay, Theory of Knowledge and Creativity, Activity and Service. The NZQA/NCEA path comprises Levels 1–3 with internal and external assessments; most subjects offer 16–20 credits per subject, and Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 enable progression toward certificates. A Course Handbook provides comprehensive information about the core curriculum and elective subjects.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio Junior High School has small class sizes with low teacher-to-student ratios.	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results In 2024, 98.3% of leavers attained NCEA Level 3 and 97.2% attained University Entrance.	Exam results In 2023, Level 1 NCEA achieved a pass rate of 98.8% (415/420), with 40.96% Excellence Endorsement and 44.82% Merit Endorsement; 86% achieved Excellence or Merit Endorsement. Level 2 NCEA achieved 99.29% (279/281) with 31.54% Excellence Endorsement and 47.67% Merit Endorsement; 79% achieved Excellence or Merit Endorsement. Level 3 NCEA achieved 97.84% (272/278); 21.94% Excellence Endorsement and 48.2% Merit Endorsement; 70% achieved Excellence or Merit Endorsement. The University Entrance rate for the year stands at 91%.
Higher education progression	Higher education progression 100% university entrance in 2025; IB Diploma graduates continue their studies in New Zealand and overseas.	Higher education progression Graduates have progressed to universities worldwide, including Harvard, Oxford, Cambridge, University of Pennsylvania, London School of Economics, New York University, University of Melbourne, and University of Sydney.
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented Gifted students have mentoring opportunities, including performance and composition programmes with the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra and Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra, and dance and choreography workshops with the Royal New Zealand Ballet.	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning Circles of Care extend pastoral support beyond classmates to include housemates, buddies, tutors, Deans, Chaplains and family. The school offers counselling, health and chaplaincy services, careers advice and personalised tutoring, with someone always available for care and guidance. Deans and year-based tutor groups meet daily to discuss wellbeing and individual goals. Circle Leaders and Orientation Leaders provide peer support for Year 7 students and new Year 9 students, while Buddies help newcomers settle in. Chaplains support faith and personal growth as an everyday part of school life, and the on-site Health Centre provides nursing care. Waiora provides additional learning and wellbeing pathways for all learners.	Social & emotional learning The Navigate programme enhances student well-being and character development. Tutor groups and the six Houses provide ongoing pastoral care, with two adult Heads of House. Every teacher acts as a tutor, maintaining strong relationships with their tutor group and parents. Chapel services are held weekly in house groups, and family house services are conducted once a term. Student Futures experts help students navigate life beyond Saint Kentigern.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) Waiora is the learning area that supports neurodiverse learners and those needing recovery or extension, offering individualised plans developed with whānau and staff. Support options include high and complex needs support, learning support classes, targeted short-term interventions and access to Special Assessment Conditions. Gifted and Talented programmes provide extension and acceleration opportunities, with Waiora staff mentoring students on accelerated pathways to balance challenge, wellbeing and success. The service partners with families and teachers to develop independence and confidence in learning.	Special educational needs (SEN) The Enhanced Learning Centre (ELC) liaises with classroom teachers to enhance learning for individual students. All students referred to the Enhanced Learning Centre are assessed to determine their learning needs and the assessment results are used to determine appropriate support in collaboration with parents and teachers. Gifted and Talented students are provided with opportunities to showcase their achievements and are celebrated, school-wide, during Gifted Awareness Week.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language The English Language (EL) Department helps international students feel welcome and safe and supports language acquisition alongside whole-school learning. English Language Learners (ELLs) are supported, with lunchtime tutorials and mentoring sessions available. EL teachers work closely with students daily to monitor progress and wellbeing.	English as an additional language —
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Three counsellors are available to support staff and students. Chaplains nurture faith and personal growth and provide confidential care as part of everyday school life. The Buddy and Circle Leader systems offer peer support, and the Health Centre provides on-site nursing care for student health needs. The pastoral framework, including tutors and Deans, supports wellbeing and goal setting for every student.	Mental wellbeing The Guidance Department includes the Head of Guidance, counselling psychologists and clinical psychologists, who are available to students during school hours. The Pastoral Care team comprises Deputy Principals, Heads of House, Head of International Students, Guidance Counsellors, the Chaplaincy team, Nurse, Head of Student Futures (Careers), Maori and Pasifika Director, and Director of Boarding. The Health Centre is staffed Monday to Friday from 8:00am–4:00pm. Weekly Chapel services are a central feature of school life, and Student Futures provides career guidance and information about future pathways with regular tertiary institution visits.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding The Education (Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Learners) Code of Practice provides schools with a framework for the care and support of students. The Pastoral Care Team, the Director of International Students and the International Student Support Coordinator provide comprehensive care for international students, ensuring a smooth transition. Regular international student meetings and one-on-one interviews throughout the year help assist students with settling into the school and receiving ongoing support.	Safeguarding Saint Kentigern follows the Education (Pastoral Care of International Students) Code of Practice 2021 for international students. Emergency contacts for international students are provided by the Director of International Students. Bruce House is the boarding facility for students (years 9 and above), with the Director of Boarding acting in loco parentis. A College Code of Conduct for Students outlines expected behaviour and disciplinary procedures. The Health and Safety policy sets safeguarding and safety protocols, and incidents or hazards must be reported.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The Dio campus includes state-of-the-art, sustainable buildings and exceptional spaces for learning. It features a historic Chapel, a purpose-built Arts Centre, a high-tech science and innovation block, and a multi-purpose indoor heated pool. The campus sits on landscaped grounds in Epsom, about 15 minutes from Auckland's CBD and close to Newmarket. It offers purpose-built performance spaces for the arts and a MakerSpace that supports hands-on, STEAM learning. The campus demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and high-quality learning environments.	Facilities overview Set on 100 acres overlooking the Tamaki Estuary in Pakuranga, Saint Kentigern College provides expansive facilities designed to support holistic student development and educational outcomes. Learning spaces are light and spacious with technology and reliable connectivity. The campus features specialist spaces for arts, science, commerce, and design, supporting a range of creative and academic activities. The facilities include spaces for performance and movement across the campus.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities The Dio sports program emphasizes participation, competition and high performance, with more than 85% of students taking part. Junior High offers a wide range of sports codes including athletics, badminton, basketball, cricket, cycling, hockey, netball, swimming, tennis, water polo and more; From Year 9 onward, additional options include snowboarding, lacrosse, rowing and table tennis. The sports department is led by experienced professionals, including the Director of Sport Angie Winstanley-Smith, with coaching and mentorship. The school maintains strong connections with local clubs and regional sporting organisations to support trips, competitions and events. The Dio Swim School provides two indoor heated pools for swimming, health and fitness.	Sports facilities The Sports Centre houses two versatile indoor courts that can be configured into a single 1,800 m² space with an electronic curtain. It includes five PE/Health teaching rooms, changing rooms, and offices for teaching and coaching staff. A strength and conditioning centre, a physiotherapy room, and a video-analysis presentation room support training and assessment. Beyond the Sports Centre, groomed fields, an artificial turf surface, tennis courts (one under cover), an indoor cricket facility, a competitive-length swimming pool, and an on-site rowing programme extend the sporting facilities.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities The campus houses a purpose-built Arts Centre and a high-tech science and innovation block to support STEM learning. It uses state-of-the-art, sustainable buildings to facilitate teaching and learning. A Junior School MakerSpace provides zones for construction, digital learning, soft and hard materials, a green screen, cooking and hard materials, with LEGO, robots and a 3D printer. The Arts Centre and science block are complemented by dedicated spaces for performance and experimentation. The Chapel is a central part of school life, reflecting the longstanding spiritual and cultural heart of the Dio community.	Academic facilities The Jack Paine Centre (JPC) houses art rooms, food technology, hard materials, soft materials, and design classrooms. The College provides dedicated Commerce and Science spaces, and the Science block is fully equipped with labs supported by technicians. The Music Centre offers facilities for individual and group practice and includes a performance auditorium for choral and instrumental programmes. The dance studio is a hub of movement that can be divided into two teaching spaces and accommodates performances, with a cushioned floor in the downstairs activity room.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities Performing Arts offers specialist teaching in Music, Singing, Dance and Drama, orchestras and choirs, annual productions and opportunities to work with major arts organisations such as the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra and NBR New Zealand Opera. The Duke of Edinburgh Hillary Award provides Bronze, Silver and Gold levels with four award sections: Skills, Physical Recreation, Voluntary Service and Adventurous Journey. The Dio Swim School operates two indoor heated pools for swimming, health and fitness. The After School Activity Programme provides additional activities beyond the core curriculum. Outdoor Education (EOTC) includes field trips and outdoor experiences as part of activities beyond the classroom.	Extra curricular facilities Rowing on Tamaki Estuary; music programs including choral and instrumental offerings housed in the Music Centre; a dance studio; a broad range of sports supported by the Sports Centre and outdoor facilities.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Early in 1903, Bishop Moore Richard Neligan arrived in Auckland to begin his ministry as the Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Auckland. He decided to establish an Anglican girls' school modelled on the British high schools to bring education and Anglican life together. His vision was to offer the best scholarship available across the colony within a Diocesan School for Girls, on sound Anglican lines. Today, Neligan's vision informs the school's holistic educational, spiritual and ethical approach from Foundation Class to Year 13.	History Saint Kentigern College opened in 1953 on a rural site near Auckland, 16 kilometres from the centre of the city, near the Tamaki Estuary. The foundation Headmaster was Reverend Adam MacFarlan, appointed in 1952 to lead the College in the Presbyterian tradition. Bruce House opened in 1954 to house boarders, with 103 boarders by 1956, and Elliot Hall was completed in 1958 as an Assembly Hall and Gym. In 1996 the Trust Deed was amended to admit girls, and the first girls joined in 2003, introducing a parallel education model with single-gender classrooms and shared opportunities. Governance has evolved through a sequence of leaders and the Saint Kentigern Trust; Warren Peat served as Executive Head from 2001, and in 2023 Damon Emtage became College Principal with Dr Kevin Morris as Executive Trustee since 2022, and the College is authorised to teach the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. Source: College History
Community	Community Diocesan has enjoyed a strong sense of community for more than 100 years. Fundraising priorities include the Ko Tātou Scholarship Fund, the Chapel restoration, and the redevelopment of the Shrewsbury Building, with opportunities to support other areas of school life such as sport and the arts. Support helps ensure the Dio girls continue to be more than they imagined. For further information about directed support or bequests, contact the Director of Development, Angela Coe.	Community The College community is anchored in faith, with Christian Education, weekly chapel services and a focus on service to others. Termly House Chapels bring families together, reinforcing shared Christian values within the community. The community is grounded in values of respect, integrity, service, excellence and love that shape student character. Source: College page (Why Saint Kentigern College)
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association Dio Parents and Friends is an incorporated society that fosters a strong sense of community among Dio families, supports the school in its endeavours and enhances the Dio experience. Getting involved means joining social events and fundraising activities organized by a dedicated committee. Membership is automatic for all Dio School families, with an annual subscription of $35 payable through the school account. Volunteer opportunities include helping in the School Cafeteria, with volunteers rostered one day per term. Throughout the year, Parents & Friends hosts events such as New Student Welcome Morning Tea, New Student Welcome Picnic, New Parents' Cocktail Party, Father & Daughter Breakfast, and an End of Year Cocktail Party. Initiatives include Dio Charms, the Dio House Tour: Houses for Causes, the Dio School Cafeteria, and the Herb and Vegetable Garden.	Parent teacher association The Parents and Friends Associations of each Saint Kentigern school play a vital role in building a sense of community and supporting school activities and initiatives. Membership consists of dedicated volunteers, with an annual AGM in March and multiple opportunities to contribute. Each of the three school associations meets about eight times per year to plan activities, with updates from senior staff and a Trust Board delegate. The College Association volunteers and raises funds, operates Kents Café for Middle School and Saints Café for Senior School, and organises special fundraising events. The Girls' and Boys' School associations contribute through fundraising and events such as Fireworks Night, Celtic Day, and Flora MacDonald Day, celebrating Celtic heritage. Funds raised are used at the committees' discretion to provide equipment or facilities that enhance the students' educational experience. Source: Parents and Friends
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual MakerSpace provides a digitally capable learning environment where students explore STEAM through hands-on projects. It features LEGO, robotics, sewing machines, a 3D printer and dedicated zones for construction, digital learning, soft materials and hard materials. Maker education plans integrate science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics to encourage inquiry, collaboration and creative problem-solving. Students are supported to pursue their interests and develop practical, real-world applications.	Academic & intellectual Saint Kentigern College runs multiple academic competitions and intellectual enrichment programs. Three College teams qualified for the World Scholar's Cup Global Round, competing in team debates, collaborative writing, the Scholar's Challenge and the Scholar's Bowl. A student has represented New Zealand in Debating at national and international events, reflecting the College's strong debate program. The College also hosts the STEM Racing competition, showcasing student engineering and teamwork across Development and Professional classes.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative Dio offers specialist teaching in Music, Singing, Dance and Drama. A Performing Arts Director coordinates co-curricular opportunities and mentoring with professional ensembles; Gifted students have performance and composition programmes with the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra and Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra, plus dance workshops with the Royal New Zealand Ballet. Students regularly compete, perform and excel at regional and national levels; Shakespeare Festival, Sheilah Winn Festival of Shakespeare in Schools and Stage Challenge are among the productions and festivals available. Regular opportunities allow beginners to progress to high-level performers.	Arts & creative The College provides extensive arts opportunities, led by seven music programmes: Orchestra, Strings, Rock, Chamber, Concert Band, Jazz, and Choral. Co-curricular music groups are available to all levels, with both auditioned and all-comer ensembles, fixed weekly rehearsals, and weekend workshops and performances. The performing arts program also includes Speech & Drama, theatre sports and school productions, and an Oral Assessment Programme with Speech New Zealand.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language English Language (EL) support helps international students study alongside domestic students, with ESL provision and targeted tutorials. Lunchtime tutorials and mentoring assist with language development and academic progress. The school offers language activities through the After School Activity Programme, including French and Chinese. The Lunar New Year Festival provides a cultural celebration and learning opportunity for Dio's diverse community.	Cultural & language Language and cultural activities include competitive events in French, with Saint Kentigern students taking part in Alliance Française Auckland debates. The College hosts international engagement through visits such as Ōtaki Scholars, and participates in cross-cultural competitions such as the World Scholar's Cup, which involves students from many backgrounds. These programs foster cultural awareness and global collaboration.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies More than 30 co-curricular sports codes provide broad participation, with 85% of students taking part. The sport program emphasizes participation, competition and high performance and includes opportunities to compete at regional, national and international levels. The After School Activity Programme in the Junior School offers cookery, art, chess, French, Chinese and performing arts, alongside sports and other activities to broaden hobbies and social engagement. These programmes extend learning beyond the classroom.	Social & hobbies Students engage in social and hobby activities through drama productions, music ensembles, and arts events. The College hosts school productions and participates in national arts competitions such as the Shakespeare Festival Nationals. The arts and culture programs also provide opportunities for creative writing, film projects and other peer-led activities.
Community & service	Community & service The Duke of Edinburgh Hillary Award challenges students to dream big and discover their potential. The programme spans Bronze, Silver and Gold and includes four sections: Skills, Physical recreation, Voluntary Service and Adventurous Journey. It emphasizes service to the community, personal development and wellbeing, and is recognized by employers and universities worldwide. The Gold Award fosters self-confidence, resilience and lifelong leadership skills.	Community & service Service and leadership are central to College life. College Prefects and leadership groups lead service initiatives and model Saint Kentigern values. Action and service activities are embedded in the Middle College program, including Mataatua Marae visits and Saint John First Aid training.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Leadership development is provided through the Duke of Edinburgh Hillary Award and through Dio's formal leadership pathways, including School Leadership and Building Leadership programs. The Duke of Edinburgh award cultivates self-motivation, teamwork and project management, building applicable life skills. Dio also maintains a structured leadership framework within its governance and leadership teams.	Leadership & professional Leadership is formalised through College Prefects, Head Prefects and a College Leadership Team. The Prefect Commissioning ceremony marks the official induction of student leaders, who guide peers and drive College life. Leadership development includes leadership camps and ongoing roles in student councils and committees.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Sport is a major wellbeing pillar with more than 85% participation and the school offers over 30 sport codes, emphasizing participation, competition and personal bests. The Sports Department supports athletes with coaching and leadership opportunities, and Girls' wellbeing is supported by the school's Pastoral Care team. Lunchtime tutorials, EL support and international student pastoral care further bolster student wellbeing and safe adaptation. Counselling services are available to support mental health and overall wellbeing.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Wellbeing and physical development are supported by extensive sport and fitness programs, with over 25 regular sports codes and a dedicated development program. Mountain biking is offered as a co-curricular activity, and the College provides a state-of-the-art fitness centre with Athletic Development Coaches to support training and holistic wellness.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision The school teaches Chinese, French, German, Japanese, Latin, Spanish and Te Reo Māori. These languages are offered as part of the Junior High School language options (Year 7–10) and continue into the Senior School, with language study aligned to both the NCEA and IB pathways. French Ab Initio and Latin are included among the IB/NCEA language offerings. English and ESOL support is provided for learners of English.	Language provision Te Reo Maori, French, Japanese, Chinese, and Spanish are offered for language learning. In Years 7 and 8, two languages are introduced: a European language (French or Spanish) and an Asian language (Mandarin). In Year 7, these two languages are studied for a semester; in Year 8, one language is studied for the full year. Languages are available across senior years as semester-long and full-year courses, and Saint Kentigern College provides two qualification pathways: NCEA and the International Baccalaureate Diploma.
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Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
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Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations —
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Intake years and availability. Main intake years are Preschool, Year 0/1, Year 4, Year 7, Year 9 and Year 11. Availability to admit new students exists throughout the year if vacancies arise. Diocesan can accept students at other year levels when places are available. 2. Apply online and deadlines. Complete the online application form. The closing date for applications is approximately 18 months prior to the entry year; for 2028 intake, it closes on Friday 29 May 2026. The application requires a non-refundable NZ$300 fee and your daughter's NZ birth certificate or NZ passport, or current passport and visa, along with a recent photo and her latest school report. If there are educational assessments, upload these with the application. 3. Documentation and review. Around 18 months ahead of entry, the Admissions Team will request additional supporting documentation. When all requested documentation has been received it will be reviewed by the Senior Academic Team. Timelines depend on the closing date and the volume of applications. 4. Interview. Following the review of your daughter's application and supporting documentation you will be advised if your daughter has been selected for an interview. 5. Offer and enrolment. Students are offered a place formally in writing. You will have a week to accept. When you accept you will be asked to pay a non-refundable enrolment fee of NZ$1,750. This represents your commitment to accepting the place offered to you. 6. Start of process. If you haven't yet applied but are interested, contact Admissions to find out availability. Please read the Selection Criteria for Enrolment and the Terms & Conditions.	Admissions 1. Application: To apply to Saint Kentigern College, complete the Online Application Form. Applications can be submitted up to three years before the intended entry year. A non-refundable application fee of $300 is charged per application. Attach a copy of the child's NZ Birth Certificate or NZ Passport or current passport, along with their latest school reports; if there have been any educational or medical assessments, provide the reports as well. 2. Request for documentation: Around 12 months ahead of entry year, the Admissions team will be in touch to request additional supporting documentation, such as school reports. 3. Interview: After the application and documents are received, prospective students and their caregiver may be invited to attend an enrolment interview in an informal, friendly setting. Interviews are held the year prior to entry. Not every student will be offered an interview and may be placed in a wait pool. Regular updates regarding available places in each year level will be provided. 4. Offer of Place: Following a successful interview, a written offer for the child's place will be issued. The offer is usually sent within a week of the interview. To secure the place, an Enrolment Agreement must be signed by both Parents or Caregivers and returned along with the non-refundable Acceptance Fee, Association Fee and Contribution Levy. 5. Acceptance: To complete enrolment, sign the Enrolment Agreement and return it with the required fees. Fees and levies are non-refundable.
Scholarships	Scholarships Diocesan offers an internal scholarship programme that invests in current students by recognising high achievers. Consideration for a scholarship or bursary will also be given to a limited number of students who are new to Diocesan. Sports and Music scholarships are offered from Years 11-13 and will only be made available if there are places in these year levels. Diocesan Alumnae Association bursaries and Buchanan Foundation scholarship are available from Year 7. One Ko Tātou scholarship is offered to a Year 9 student, covering Years 9-13. Applications for 2027 scholarships and bursaries are now closed. Applications for 2028 scholarships and bursaries will open in January 2027. Scholarships at a glance: Sports and Music scholarships have a maximum value of 50% of the tuition fees. The Diocesan Alumnae Association Bursary was established for girls whose Mother or Grandmother is a Diocesan Alumna, with selection criteria including financial circumstances and the Dio Alumna's past involvement in the school, for up to 50% of tuition fees. The Ko Tātou Scholarship was established in 2022 to open the doorway for students to attend Diocesan who would not otherwise be able to. One scholarship is offered each year to a Year 9 student, covering Years 9-13. Scholarships for Boarding: 2028 will be available, with applications opening in 2027.	Scholarships Saint Kentigern College offers Scholarships to students entering Years 9-11. Applicants may apply for up to three scholarship categories: Academic, All-Round, Alumni, Boarding Bursary, Performing Arts, and Sport. Scholarships may cover up to 50% of tuition for most categories; Alumni up to 25%; Boarding Bursary up to 50% of boarding fees; Sport up to 50% (up to 90% in exceptional cases). Scholarships are awarded for the duration of the student's schooling. Applications open for 2028 Scholarships on 2 November 2026; 2027 Scholarships are closed. Timeline: 1) Apply online (no fee) with required documents; 2) Exams and auditions as required; 3) Interviews for shortlisted candidates; 4) Offer of scholarship; 5) Acceptance by returning Enrolment Agreement.
Waitlist	Waitlist —	Waitlist Due to high demand, some applicants may be placed in a wait pool while spaces become available. Regular updates regarding available places in each year level will be provided.
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