Kristin School and St Cuthbert's College are both in Auckland, about 18 km apart. Both schools offer IB programmes, and St Cuthbert's College also offers Bespoke. Published annual fees are NZ$500 - 29,056 at Kristin School and NZ$27,500 - 63,088 at St Cuthbert's College, which puts St Cuthbert's College roughly 206% higher. Kristin School takes pupils from 0 to 18, and St Cuthbert's College from 5 to 18. The two are similar in size, at around 1,800 and 1,633 pupils.
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Kristin School
Auckland, New Zealand
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St Cuthbert's College
Auckland, New Zealand
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| Snapshot | Snapshot | |
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Fees / year
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Fees / year NZ$500 - 29,056 | Fees / year NZ$27,500 - 63,088 |
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Age range
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Age range 0 - 18 years | Age range 5 - 18 years |
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Type
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Type Co-educational | Type Girls School, Girls School (boarding) |
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Curriculum
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Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP) | Curriculum IB (DP), Bespoke Curriculum |
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Pupils
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Pupils 1,800 | Pupils 1,633 |
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Typical class size
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Typical class size 15 | Typical class size — |
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Instruction language
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Instruction language English | Instruction language English |
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Opened
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Opened 1973 | Opened 1915 |
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Bus service
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Bus service No | Bus service No |
| Essentials | Essentials | |
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Location
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Location 360 Albany Highway, Albany, Auckland 0632, New Zealand. Based in Albany on Auckland's North Shore, the campus sits on a purpose-built 50-acre site set among native bush. A fleet of Kristin buses provides transport to multiple routes around Auckland. | Location Located in Epsom, Auckland, New Zealand. The campus address is 122 Market Road, Epsom, Auckland 1051. |
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Stages
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Stages Early Learning to Senior School (Early Childhood Education 6 months–5 years; Kindergarten through Year 13) | Stages Junior School Years 0–6; Senior School Years 7–10; Senior School Years 11–13. |
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School type
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School type Independent, co-educational school | School type The school is an all-girls day and boarding school. |
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Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix — | Pupil nationality mix — |
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Additional learning support
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Additional learning support — | Additional learning support ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) classes are available to support students whose first language is not English. |
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Country affiliation
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Country affiliation New Zealand | Country affiliation New Zealand |
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Religious affiliation
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Religious affiliation non-denominational | Religious affiliation — |
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School day structure
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School day structure — | School day structure — |
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Bus service details
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Bus service details Dedicated Kristin buses operate for Kindergarten through Senior School with routes across Auckland. Drivers know students by name. Route information is available by selecting AM or PM tabs on the bus route page. | Bus service details Transport options include dedicated school bus routes organized by Auckland Transport; Outer Link bus; private and public NZ Bus routes; Remuera train station within walking distance. |
| Fees | Fees | |
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Fee details
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Fee details Application and Entrance Fees - Application fee (payable on submission; non-refundable): NZD 300 for Junior/Middle/Senior and International applicants. - Entrance fee (required to confirm acceptance; non-refundable): NZD 900 for Junior/Middle/Senior and International applicants. - Kristin Education Bond (non-interest bearing; payable on acceptance and repaid when the student leaves provided correct notice and accounts are clear): NZD 3,000 for Junior/Middle/Senior and International applicants. - Kindergarten-specific charges: Entrance Fee NZD 200 (non-refundable) and Kristin Education Bond NZD 500. Tuition fees — Early Learning Centre and Kindergarten (consolidated) - With 20 hours ECE funding (Full day 8:00am–4:00pm): Tuition Fee per term NZD 5,518; per month NZD 2,207. Activity fee per term NZD 90 (Total per term NZD 5,608; per month NZD 2,243). - Without 20 hours ECE funding (Full day 8:00am–4:00pm): Tuition Fee per term NZD 7,174; per month NZD 2,870. Activity fee per term NZD 90 (Total per term NZD 7,264; per month NZD 2,906). Tuition fees — Domestic students (2026) — annual and instalments - Junior School (Years 0–6): Annual tuition NZD 24,021. Term instalment (four equal instalments) = NZD 6,005.25 per term. Monthly amount if paid by 10-month direct debit = NZD 2,402.10 per month. - Middle School (Years 7–10): Annual tuition NZD 29,669. Term instalment (four equal instalments) = NZD 7,417.25 per term. Monthly amount if paid by 10-month direct debit = NZD 2,966.90 per month. - Senior School (Years 11–13): Annual tuition NZD 30,291. Term instalment (four equal instalments) = NZD 7,572.75 per term. Monthly amount if paid by 10-month direct debit = NZD 3,029.10 per month. Tuition fees — International students (2026) — annual and instalments - Junior School (Years 0–6): Annual tuition NZD 42,195. Term instalment (four equal instalments) = NZD 10,548.75 per term. Monthly amount if paid by 10-month direct debit = NZD 4,219.50 per month. - Middle School (Years 7–10): Annual tuition NZD 52,053. Term instalment (four equal instalments) = NZD 13,013.25 per term. Monthly amount if paid by 10-month direct debit = NZD 5,205.30 per month. - Senior School (Years 11–13): Annual tuition NZD 53,135. Term instalment (four equal instalments) = NZD 13,283.75 per term. Monthly amount if paid by 10-month direct debit = NZD 5,313.50 per month. Billing schedule and payment terms - Direct Debit over 10 months: due on the 20th of each month from February to November. Monthly amounts equal the annual tuition divided by 10. - Direct Debit termly instalments: four equal instalments due on 20 February, 20 April, 20 July and 20 October (term instalments equal the annual tuition divided by 4). - Single payment discount: a 1% discount on the annual tuition fee when the full year tuition is paid by 15 December of the prior year; to arrange payment via accountsreceivable@kristin.school.nz. - Credit card, Alipay or WeChat payments incur a bank surcharge of 1.4%. - Fees billed for incidental items (co‑curricular activities, camps, IB exam fees, etc.) are charged to the school account as they arise and are communicated to families in advance. Additional recurring and one‑off costs - Development Contribution (annual, per child): NZD 1,150. - Activity Fee (covers field trips and curriculum-related activities): up to NZD 699 (varies by year level). - Kristin Alumni Association Fee (one‑off on entry; lifetime membership; non-refundable): NZD 500. - Uniform (new students can expect approximate initial cost): NZD 1,100 for a full uniform; second‑hand options available through school sales. - Digital learning: Year 4–6 iPad lease (managed and owned by the school until student finishes Junior School, then transferred to family) estimated NZD 1,600. Years 7–13 bring-your-own-laptop. - Bus fares: dependent on route and distance; concession cards available for casual users. - International-specific extras: homestay accommodation NZD 410 per week; English acquisition lessons (if required) NZD 1,850 per term; medical insurance approximately NZD 650 per year. - Other incidental charges: co‑curricular activities, outdoor education (camp) charges and IB Diploma exam fees are billed to the school account when applicable. Sibling discounts - A sibling discount applies to tuition only: 10% off tuition for the third sibling attending Kristin Junior–Senior School (excludes Little Doves ELC and Kindergarten). The discount increases to 15% for the fourth and subsequent siblings. Refunds, transfers and fee protection - Entrance fees and the alumni fee are non‑refundable. Kristin Education Bonds are repaid when the student leaves provided the required notice has been given and all accounts are paid. - International students: prepaid tuition and certain annual fees must be paid in full by set deadlines for visa processing; fees are not refundable within the first 12 months if an international student gains permanent residence or a work permit and seeks to transfer to domestic fees. In later years, a full term's notice and evidence of change of status are required before a fee change will be applied. - Tuition Fee Protection: prepaid tuition fees are held in a reserve; at the beginning of each term a quarter of pre‑paid tuition fees are transferred from the reserve to the school's income account to ensure the pre‑paid portion can be identified at any time. Accepted payment methods and surcharges - Direct debit (termly instalments or over 10 months) and single upfront payments are accepted. Credit card, Alipay and WeChat are accepted but incur a 1.4% bank surcharge. Single upfront payments eligible for a 1% discount if paid by the specified deadline. Bank transfer and direct debit arrangements are used for regular instalments. Notes on incidental timing obligations - Certain categories of fees (for example, full-year tuition, homestay, alumni fee in the entry year, activity and development contribution, and medical insurance) are required to be paid in full by the deadlines set for international enrolment to permit timely visa issuance and renewal. | Fee details Application and Acceptance Fees - Application fee: NZD 320 (GST inclusive). This fee is waived if the applicant's mother is an Old Girl. - Acceptance (enrolment) fee: NZD 2,480 (GST inclusive). This acceptance fee is non‑refundable and includes lifetime membership to the Old Girls' Association and membership of the Parents & Friends' Association. Tuition and Boarding Fees (annual and per term/quarter) - New Zealand resident tuition (2026): - Years 0–6: NZD 27,500 per year / NZD 6,875 per quarter. - Years 7–13: NZD 31,544 per year / NZD 7,886 per quarter. - Kahunui (Year 10 residential experience): NZD 3,500 (annual one‑off fee). - Boarding (for boarders): NZD 21,608 per year / NZD 5,402 per quarter. Boarding is available for Years 9–13. - International student tuition (student visa) (2026): - Years 0–6: NZD 55,000 per year / NZD 13,750 per quarter. - Years 7–13: NZD 63,088 per year / NZD 15,772 per quarter. - Kahunui (Year 10): NZD 3,500 (annual one‑off fee). - Boarding: NZD 21,608 per year / NZD 5,402 per quarter. - Building maintenance levy (per family): NZD 1,000 for one student; NZD 1,500 for two or more students. - Sibling discount: A 30% tuition discount applies to the third and subsequent daughters once they start at the College (conditions apply). Billing schedule and payment terms - Invoicing and due dates: - Tax invoices/statements are issued monthly; annual fees are invoiced quarterly. - Quarterly invoice / direct debit processing schedule (2026): - Quarter 1 invoice date: 13 January 2026 — due (direct debit) 31 January 2026. - Quarter 2 invoice date: 1 April 2026 — due (direct debit) 30 April 2026. - Quarter 3 invoice date: 1 July 2026 — due (direct debit) 31 July 2026. - Quarter 4 invoice date: 1 September 2026 — due (direct debit) 30 September 2026. - Payment frequencies available via Direct Debit by the College (no fee for the direct debit service): 40 weekly payments, 20 fortnightly payments, 10 monthly payments, or quarterly payments (quarterly amounts include disbursements and fees billed to date). Weekly/fortnightly/monthly direct debits commence on 22 January 2026; a year‑end wash‑up payment may be processed in December. Weekly/fortnightly/monthly direct debit instalment amounts (including an estimate for disbursements) are published by year group. Example direct debit instalments (including an estimate of NZD 2,000 for disbursements): - Year 0–6: Weekly NZD 740 / Fortnightly NZD 1,480 / Monthly NZD 2,960. - Year 7–13 (not Year 10): Weekly NZD 840 / Fortnightly NZD 1,680 / Monthly NZD 3,360. - Year 10: Weekly NZD 930 / Fortnightly NZD 1,860 / Monthly NZD 3,720. - Boarders Year 7–13: Weekly NZD 1,380 / Fortnightly NZD 2,760 / Monthly NZD 5,520. - Full‑year in‑advance option: One lump sum payment of the full year plus an estimate of NZD 2,000 for disbursements is due by 31 January (cash or credit card accepted for the lump sum). A direct debit is still required for the year‑end wash‑up. - Disbursements (extras) are invoiced monthly and the published estimate for budgeting is NZD 2,000 (this excludes overseas trips, overnight camps, technology equipment or leases, and donations). - Interest and penalties: Interest of 1% per month is charged on overdue accounts; dishonoured direct debit payments incur a NZD 20 charge in addition to any bank charges. Non‑payment within the time specified by the Trust Board may result in parents being asked to withdraw the student. Payment methods and options - Payment methods accepted for lump‑sum payments: cash or credit card (Visa, Mastercard and American Express accepted). A direct debit arrangement with the College is available for instalment payments (no fee). - Direct debit (managed by St Cuthbert's) is the instalment mechanism; families can choose weekly, fortnightly, monthly or quarterly frequencies. A wash‑up payment at year end may apply. Boarding details and charges - Boarding availability and fees: - Boarding is offered for Senior School students (Years 9–13). - Boarding fee: NZD 21,608 per year / NZD 5,402 per quarter (same boarding fee applies to New Zealand residents and international students). - Change of status/withdrawal for boarders: One full quarter's boarding fee will be charged where a change in status occurs but notice requirements are not fulfilled. One full term's written notice to the Principal is required prior to withdrawal from the College as a boarder or day girl, otherwise one quarter's fees in lieu will be charged. Other compulsory or common family costs - Building maintenance levy per family: NZD 1,000 (one student) or NZD 1,500 (two or more students). - Uniform: All uniform items are supplied via the on‑campus Black Watch House uniform shop (new students are required to have a fitting and new families must purchase uniform in person for sizing). Compulsory uniform items are listed by year group (examples include blazer, tunic, shirts, ties, PE kit, shoes and selected sportswear). Families should budget separately for full uniform packs. - Devices and stationery: Students have device requirements by year level (Years 5–9 require an iPad with keyboard and Apple Pencil; Years 10–13 require an Apple MacBook). Stationery for Years 7–13 is purchased via OfficeMax; families should budget for a device and stationery in addition to tuition and uniform. - Additional common costs not included in tuition: overseas trips, sports tours, subject‑specific materials, optional academy or activity levies, overnight camps, external examination fees, medical expenses, personal items, and donations. Disbursements billed monthly may include many of these items. Refunds, notice and penalties - Acceptance fee: non‑refundable. - Absence from school (illness, quarantine, parents' overseas transfer or other causes) does not entitle families to cancellation or refund of fees. Suspension or expulsion of a student does not result in a refund of fees. - Withdrawal notice: One full term's written notice to the Principal is required prior to withdrawal for either boarders or day students. Failure to provide the required notice will result in one quarter's fees charged in lieu. A change from boarding to day status without the required notice will attract one full quarter's boarding fee. Administrative and contact details for fees - Accounts contact: fees@stcuthberts.school.nz. Phone numbers for general enquiries and the uniform shop are published for families who need assistance with purchases or payment arrangements. |
| Diving deeper | Diving deeper | |
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Boarding arrangements
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Boarding arrangements Homestay accommodation: Kiwi host families; international students usually live with a host family arranged by Kristin's International Services. Host families are carefully selected and police checked to ensure safety and welfare. The homestay provides a fully furnished bedroom with study facilities, three meals a day plus snacks, and transport to school and activities as needed. | Boarding arrangements Boarding at St Cuthbert's is a vibrant community where over 100 girls from Years 9–13 flourish academically, personally and socially. Students progress through three distinctive boarding houses—Melrose, Dunblane and Elgin—each tailored to the needs of different year levels as they move through the senior years. The College is located in Epsom, Auckland. |
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Uniform requirement
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Uniform requirement Kristin has a formal uniform. An on-site uniform shop sells items with fittings by appointment; some items can be purchased direct from Argyle Online; secondhand uniform sales are held regularly. House colours are used in PE and in house T-shirts as part of the school's house system. | Uniform requirement The uniform is available exclusively from Black Watch House, the on-campus uniform shop on the lower ground floor of the Robertson Building. Families can purchase via the online shop or visit the shop during opening hours. |
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Food options
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Food options For international students in homestay, food is provided by the host family: three meals a day plus snacks; breakfast typically includes cereal and toast, lunch is usually a sandwich, and dinner is typically meat with vegetables. | Food options A wide variety of food is provided in the dining hall, including a hot lunch option with a salad, smoothies and wraps. The Violet Wood Dining Hall is the heart of the boarding community, with shared meals; breakfast, lunch and dinner options are offered and smoothies are available at the smoothie bar; there are summer BBQs in the Melrose House outdoor area. |
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House system
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House system The school uses a house system; house colours feature on PE shirts and House T-Shirts; House Deans oversee house matters in the Senior School. | House system The college has three boarding houses—Melrose, Dunblane and Elgin—that accommodate different year levels as students progress through Years 9–13. |
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Governance and ownership
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Governance and ownership Kristin School is owned by a charitable trust and governed by a Board of Governors comprising four Trustees and six Parent Governors. | Governance and ownership The school is governed by a Trust Board that oversees strategic planning for the College. The St Cuthbert's Foundation was launched to support the College's strategic plan. |
| Academics | Academics | |
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Curriculum details
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Curriculum details The school offers an International Baccalaureate (IB) Continuum World School with dual curriculums: IB and NCEA; senior students choose between the IB Diploma Programme and NCEA. | Curriculum details The curriculum from Years 0-13 combines academic rigor with forward-thinking innovation, preparing young women for a rapidly changing world. Subject offerings cover sciences, English, humanities, languages, mathematics, technology, and the arts, with tailored choices aligned to university entrance requirements and future career aspirations. Guidance on subject selection is provided by Careers advisors, tutors, Deans, and teachers. Extension for High Achievers includes acceleration in Mathematics, NZQA Scholarship programmes, and mentoring. Junior School (Years 0-6) features a Structured Literacy Approach, a strong numeracy programme, smaller class sizes, and specialist teaching in Music, French, and Physical Education. Senior School (Years 7-10) offers a core programme with language tasters in Year 7 and pathways in Year 8, plus a Year 10 Kahunui outdoor learning experience. Year 11-13 provide a bespoke Year 11 Diploma and two qualification pathways: NCEA Levels 2 and 3 or the International Baccalaureate Diploma. |
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Student teacher ratio
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Student teacher ratio Small class sizes; senior school classes have an average of 15 students. | Student teacher ratio — |
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Exam results
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Exam results The school has a 100% pass rate in the IB Diploma and 97% of students achieving University Entrance (UE) in 2024. | Exam results 2024 results: 99% of students achieved University Entrance across IB and NCEA; NCEA pass rate for Levels 2 and 3 was 100%; IB pass rate was 100% with 22% achieving 40+/45. NZQA Scholarships were awarded: 139 total, with 25 outstanding. 2023 results: 97% of Year 13 gained University Entrance; six Top NZ Subject Awards; three NZQA Outstanding Scholar Awards; two Premier Scholars. 2025 results: 99% University Entrance; 121 NZQA Scholarships awarded with 16 outstanding. |
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Higher education progression
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Higher education progression 97% of students achieved University Entrance (UE) in 2024. | Higher education progression University Entrance is a key pathway, with two qualification routes in Years 12-13: NCEA Levels 2 and 3 or the International Baccalaureate Diploma. The school provides University and Career Guidance to support local and offshore university applications, and offers a broad range of subjects to prepare students for tertiary study across multiple regions. |
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Gifted and talented
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Gifted and talented — | Gifted and talented Extension for High Achievers includes acceleration in Mathematics, enrichment opportunities, NZQA Scholarship programmes, and mentoring. |
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Academic calendar
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Academic calendar — | Academic calendar — |
| Wellbeing & support | Wellbeing & support | |
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Social & emotional learning
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Social & emotional learning The school emphasises intellectual and personal development through academics, experiential learning, service and leadership. It aims to develop students who are curious, caring and responsible global citizens within an environment that supports wellbeing. | Social & emotional learning The school has a dedicated Wellbeing Centre where our psychologist, counsellors, Deans and Careers staff are located to guide students' mental, physical and emotional health. The team works with teachers and families to ensure the overall wellbeing of every girl. The Wellbeing programme starts from day one and continues through graduation. The Year 7 Homeroom model provides close pastoral care, and Vertical Tutor Groups from Year 8 onward offer ongoing support to help girls settle, form friendships, and develop leadership and social skills. Strong friendships and a caring, inclusive community are nurtured through the school's ethos, with service and the values programme embedded across campus. |
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Special educational needs (SEN)
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Special educational needs (SEN) — | Special educational needs (SEN) Pohutukawa Learning Centre is led by a registered educational psychologist and works with classroom educators, occupational therapists and speech and language therapists who regularly visit the school to meet each student's unique needs on site. |
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English as an additional language
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English as an additional language — | English as an additional language If English is not your first language, ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) classes are provided to help establish stronger English language skills. |
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Mental wellbeing
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Mental wellbeing — | Mental wellbeing The Wellbeing Centre includes a psychologist, counsellors, Deans, nurses and mental health practitioners who guide students' mental health and wellbeing. The team collaborates with teachers and families to monitor wellbeing and respond to concerns. The Wellbeing programme runs from day one through graduation, with a focus on resilience, coping strategies and healthy relationships. Settling in is supported by teachers and older students to help girls feel belonging and connected. The Senior School pastoral structure, including Year 7 Homerooms and Vertical Tutor Groups, further supports social development and leadership and reinforces the school's values-based approach to wellbeing. |
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Safeguarding
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Safeguarding — | Safeguarding — |
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Safeguarding policy
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Safeguarding policy — | Safeguarding policy — |
| Facilities | Facilities | |
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Facilities overview
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Facilities overview The Kristin campus spans 50 acres of park-like grounds with modern facilities. It provides well-resourced classrooms and laboratories, complemented by an extensive library, auditoriums, a media studio, and sports facilities. The grounds include gardens, age-specific playgrounds and expansive natural spaces for exploration. The campus supports intellectual, physical and emotional development. It enables a wide range of learning experiences across the sciences, technology, arts and physical education. | Facilities overview St Cuthbert's operates multiple campuses with spaces dedicated to science, technology and the arts. The Physics, Chemistry, Biology and Philosophy wing provides science and humanities learning spaces. Technology labs enable hands-on Robotics, Design and Sewing, Home Economics, and Wood and Metal Craft. Libraries support reading and research with professional librarians. The Joan Holland Auditorium hosts drama performances, guest speakers and workshops. The Kahunui campus is undergoing enhancements, including a Learning Hub, welcoming pavilion and flexible learning spaces; stage two will add a staff village and expanded communal facilities. |
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Sports facilities
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Sports facilities Kristin offers a wide range of sporting facilities. The campus includes a competition-sized hockey turf with stadium lighting, rugby and football pitches, and multiple cricket pitches and football fields. There is a multi-purpose indoor facility named Tūrama for netball, basketball or tennis. The hockey turf is located at the rear of the Junior School and is equipped with stadium lighting. Kristin has two gymnasiums—the Roy Munn Gym in the Junior School and the Old Gym near Gate 1—and a rock climbing wall used in Outdoor Education. The Institute of Golf is nearby and provides a driving range with 10 undercover bays. | Sports facilities St Cuthbert's provides a range of sports facilities to support participation across levels. A modern fitness centre and the Centennial Centre For Wellbeing provide training and wellbeing spaces. The college has a hockey turf, a football field, tennis and netball courts, and swimming pools. There is also a junior turf and indoor sports centres. These facilities are complemented by coaching staff including former national representatives and international competitors. |
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Academic facilities
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Academic facilities The Science and Technology Centre provides 16 teaching spaces and laboratories, arranged around a central atrium with social spaces, ample natural lighting, and energy-efficient heating and cooling. The Library and Information Centre (LIC) houses the library, Information Services, a Senior Study Centre, Senior School Administration, a public gallery and conference facilities. The Senior Study Centre includes a study room and a senior common room with an external courtyard. The Canon Creative Studio is the hub of media production, featuring a blackout studio, a nine-metre-wide green screen with ARRI lighting, Apple M2 Macbooks for editing and Canon cameras and lenses. | Academic facilities The college has dedicated Technology rooms for hands-on learning in Robotics, Design and Sewing, Home Economics, and Wood and Metal Craft. An entire wing is dedicated to Physics, Chemistry, Biology and Philosophy. Libraries provide reading and research spaces. Kahunui campus includes a Learning Hub and flexible learning spaces as part of a significant enhancement completed in January 2026. |
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Extra curricular facilities
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Extra curricular facilities Arts and performing arts facilities include the Dove Theatre (approximately 200 seats) and the Auditorium (over 1,000 seats), with the Arts Centre connecting to music suites, drama and dance studios. The Canon Creative Studio supports media production for student projects. The LIC provides a public gallery and conference facilities for exhibitions and events. Kristin offers co-curricular opportunities in Performing Arts, Sports, Volunteer and Leadership, and Experiential Learning. | Extra curricular facilities Athlete Pathway Programme provides specialised support for talented athletes from Year 8 onward, including strength and conditioning, mentoring, injury prevention, nutrition guidance and balancing academic commitments. After-school activities are offered by external providers, including creative dance, rock band and karate, plus maths tutoring. Joan Holland Auditorium hosts drama performances, guest speakers and workshops. The Collegiate Centre enables bookings for after-school and community activities outside school hours. |
| Parent experience | Parent experience | |
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History
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History The school was founded in 1973 by a group of parents seeking quality, holistic education. It began with 42 students. The school is owned by a charitable trust and governed by a Board of Governors with four Trustees and six Parent Governors. Founding patrons remain active and valued members of the Kristin community, providing a direct connection to the school's origins. | History St Cuthbert's College was founded in 1915 with 190 pupils. Gladys Wells led the early formation of the College in 1918. St Cuthbert's College Educational Trust Board is a registered charity. The Epsom campus centenary was celebrated in 2025, marking 100 years since 1925. The College serves almost 1,700 students with a thriving Junior School, Boarding programme, and a second campus, Kahunui, in the Bay of Plenty. |
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Community
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Community Service and the community have always been a vital part of Kristin. Getting involved with the school community connects families with daily life at Kristin. The Kristin Family and Friends (KFF) facilitates activities and events and serves as the parent body. Founding patrons remain active and valued members of the community, and former students frequently return to Kristin with their own children. The community includes international and cultural groups, with ethnic parent committees for Chinese, Korean, German, Russian, Japanese, Salaam and Hispanic communities. | Community The St Cuthbert's community is built around Parents & Friends volunteers, an Old Girls' Association, and an active Alumni network. The motto By Love Serve underpins community life and guides involvement by parents, staff and students. Events and reunions connect current families with alumni and friends. Gifts to St Cuthbert's Foundation support priorities such as Student Hardship Fund and Staff Scholarships. |
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Parent teacher association
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Parent teacher association Kristin Family and Friends (KFF) is the parent body and facilitates activities and events on behalf of the school, providing opportunities for families to participate. Examples of events include the Summer Carnival, International Peace Night Concert, Wednesday Walks, and Second-Hand Uniform Sales. | Parent teacher association Parents & Friends volunteers bind the community together and provide opportunities to get involved. An Old Girls' Association keeps alumnae connected and protects the College's heritage. Events & Reunions bring together current families, Old Girls and friends to foster connections. The Alumni & Friends program maintains ties with graduates, supports events, and coordinates personalised tours for prospective families. Gifts and philanthropy are channeled through the St Cuthbert's Educational Trust Board (a registered charity) to support the College, with areas such as Student Hardship Fund and Staff Scholarships; the Making Their Mark Awards celebrate inspirational Old Girls. |
| Extra-curricular | Extra-curricular | |
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Academic & intellectual
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Academic & intellectual The school participates in mathematics competitions, including the European Girls' Maths Olympiad, Inter School Maths Olympiad, Auckland Maths Olympiad, Mathex, Calcex and the New Zealand Maths Olympiad. The co-curricular programme includes enrichment opportunities, workshops, futures evening and futures camp, and university visits to extend learning beyond the classroom. The school is an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School and offers IB Diploma pathways and international placements in line with its international curriculum. | Academic & intellectual St Cuthbert's offers a broad range of academic clubs and competitions. Examples include Brainbee, Business Club, Chemistry Olympiad, Debating, English Language Mentoring, International Young Physics Tournament, Kids' Lit Quiz, Law Club, Mathex, Young Enterprise, and Med Society. Senior students can participate in Model United Nations, Mooting Team, Rotary Interact Club, and Shares Investment Club. These activities support inquiry, collaboration and public-speaking skills. |
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Arts & creative
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Arts & creative The Performing Arts program encompasses music, art, dance and drama for students in Junior through Senior School. The program includes award-winning productions and practical theatre experiences in a fully functioning theatre environment. Our musical productions include Disney's Lion King KIDS, Frozen JR, the Addams Family and Disney's The Little Mermaid JR, among others. There are choirs, orchestras, chamber music, contemporary ensembles and itinerant music tuition across more than 20 instruments. | Arts & creative Performing Arts is a greatly valued part of St Cuthbert's life. The program includes School Musical Productions across age groups, and a dedicated Dance programme with The Company and Showquest. Music encompasses choirs, bands, orchestras and chamber groups with itinerant teachers, and opportunities to perform at showcases and festivals. Drama and Speech offer Drama Club, Theatresports and Shakespeare performances, with a dedicated Performing Arts Centre and a new recording studio. |
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Cultural & language
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Cultural & language As an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, Kristin offers long-term placements through its International Programme and short-term placements by arrangement. Language, cultural and service trips enrich language learning and provide immersive experiences, with the Dovetail Exchange Programme enabling Middle and Senior School students to live and study in other cultures. Kristin participates in the Global Alliance for Innovative Learning (GAIL), linking with partner schools and offering annual GAIL conventions. The International brochure is available in English, Korean, Japanese, Spanish and Italian. | Cultural & language St Cuthbert's has a broad range of cultural groups and events. Pōfiafia is the annual celebration of cultural diversity with performances from 16 student groups including Chinese, Filipino, Indian, Japanese, Kapa Haka, Korean, Mongolian, Samoan, Sri Lankan, Thai, Tibetan, Tongan and Vietnamese. Polyfest participation is a highlight, and Kapa Haka groups such as Kahukura have achieved top placements. Cultural Colours awards recognise outstanding cultural contributions. The school hosts celebrations such as Lunar New Year, Mooncake Festival and Festival of Flavours. |
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Social & hobbies
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Social & hobbies Co-curricular opportunities include Performing Arts and Sports, with more than 20 sporting codes and top-quality facilities on-site. Performing Arts spans choir, orchestras, chamber music, jazz and other ensembles, and includes major productions such as Disney's The Lion King KIDS, Frozen JR, The Addams Family and The Little Mermaid JR. Dance programmes, theatre activities and theatre productions provide broad opportunities for creative and collaborative work, including Dance in the Dove and Theatre/Drama activities. Toastmasters and other clubs operate as part of Kristin's co-curricular life. | Social & hobbies St Cuthbert's offers diverse clubs and activities beyond academics. Junior School features Lovie Club, Debating, Chess Club, Coding Club, and Kapa Haka among others. Senior School provides Chess, Rock Climbing, Surfing, Tramping, eSports, Makers Club, and Film Society, along with a wide array of other interests. These activities run before school, at lunch, and after school. |
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Community & service
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Community & service Leadership and service go hand in hand at Kristin; as an IB World School, leadership and service are integrated to benefit the school and wider community. Through leadership roles and active community-minded groups, students learn to support peers and engage in service activities; programmes align with the PYP Exhibition, MYP Community Project and IB Diploma CAS. Kristin has ongoing partnerships with community organisations such as Ronald McDonald House, Restoring Rosedale Park and Wairau Special Valley School. Experiential Learning also includes service learning opportunities and overseas experiences. | Community & service By Love Serve underpins Service in Action, developing caring, empathetic, and globally aware citizens. Senior and Junior School service programs connect students with Communities Feeding Communities to address food insecurity. Year 11 Service Programme includes extensive service hours and support for local schools, with initiatives such as Girls in Need hygiene bags. Additional drives include Period Product Drive, Blanket Drive, Christmas Giving, and Wear What You Want Day to support various charities. |
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Leadership & professional
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Leadership & professional Leadership and service roles are structured to provide learning and growth that complement the curriculum. Through ongoing partnerships with community organisations, students engage in meaningful service projects. The Senior School offers mentoring, enrichment opportunities, workshops, futures evening, futures camp and university visits to support career development and future planning. | Leadership & professional Senior School offers leadership and professional development through clubs such as Young Enterprise (Y12) and the Law Club (Y9-13). Model United Nations and the Mooting Team provide opportunities for debate, advocacy, and diplomacy. Rotary Interact Club (Y9-13) offers service leadership and community engagement. Margin (student publication) and Shares Investment Club provide leadership experiences in publishing and finance. |
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Lifestyle & wellbeing
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Lifestyle & wellbeing Sports are a core focus, with more than 20 sporting codes and top-quality fields, a high-performance gym, climbing wall, an all-weather hockey turf and covered tennis and netball courts. The school aims to develop lifelong physical activity through quality coaching across codes. Camp Week is a major outdoor learning experience for Years 7–13, designed to build teamwork, independence, resilience and personal development. Physical Education/Health/Learning for Life is a compulsory part of the Senior School, reinforcing wellbeing as part of Kristin's approach. | Lifestyle & wellbeing St Cuthbert's offers over 30 sport codes with pathways from participation to high performance. The school frequently sees students representing New Zealand in sports and provides scholarship support for top athletes. Facilities include a modern fitness centre, the Centennial Centre For Wellbeing, hockey turf, football field, tennis and netball courts, swimming pools, and indoor spaces. House sporting events such as Swimming Sports, Athletic Sports and Cross Country promote school spirit. |
| Language provision | Language provision | |
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Language provision
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Language provision Mandarin Chinese and Maori are taught throughout the Kindergarten and Junior School. Language classes for Middle and Senior School include Chinese, Spanish, French and Japanese. | Language provision Languages are taught as part of the curriculum. In Year 7, students have language tasters in Latin, Spanish, French, and Mandarin, with Te Reo Māori taught year-round. In Year 8, students select foreign language pathways based on their Year 7 experiences. In Years 9–10 there are broader options in languages. For international students, ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) classes are available to support English language development. |
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Bilingual teaching
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Bilingual teaching — | Bilingual teaching — |
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Immersion programs
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Immersion programs — | Immersion programs — |
| Reputation | Reputation | |
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Awards
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Awards — | Awards — |
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Accreditations
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Accreditations — | Accreditations — |
| Admissions | Admissions | |
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Admissions
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Admissions 1. Apply online: Applications take about 15 minutes to complete and require documents such as the photo page of the applicant's passport or NZ birth certificate; for non-New Zealand passport holders, a visa copy; a recent head-and-shoulders photo; two most recent school reports; and copies of any educational assessments if applicable. 2. Little Doves ELC and Kristin Kindergarten: Applications are open year-round; after submission, the child is placed in an Applicant Pool and will be contacted for an interview if a place becomes available; tours are invitation-only. 3. Junior School (Year 0 and Year 1): Applications are open year-round; selected candidates are notified for an entrance interview closer to when the child turns five; tours are offered by invitation. 4. Middle School (Years 7 and 9, 2026 entries): Applications for 2026 have closed; 2027 and beyond are open; due to high demand not all applicants will be selected for an entrance interview; those not selected will be placed in the Applicant Pool and may be contacted if opportunities arise. 5. Senior School (Years 11–13, 2026 entries): Applications for 2026 have closed; 2027 and beyond are open; due to high demand and limited places not all applicants will be shortlisted; shortlisted candidates and their parent(s) or guardian(s) must attend an entrance interview with the Senior School Principal or delegate. 6. International students: Kristin generally does not accept international students under 14 unless they live in Auckland with a parent permanently present; a copy of the birth certificate and passport must be provided with the International Student application. 7. What we look for: Kristin seeks students with real potential to be intellectual and independent learners and to contribute across the co-curriculum; selection considers academics, character, interests and personality. 8. Community connections: connections to the Kristin community (such as being siblings of current students or children of alumni) are considered as part of the process, but do not guarantee a place. 9. | Admissions The school has an Admissions Team that guides families through the application process from inquiry to place, with an online application form available when ready. The school welcomes girls at every year level in both the Junior and Senior Schools, and offers Boarding from Year 9. International students from Year 1–13 are welcomed into a diverse community. From the initial enquiry, the admissions team supports families to navigate the application process and get to know their daughter and family. |
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Scholarships
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Scholarships Dove Scholarships are Kristin's main scholarship program for Years 9–13 and include four categories: Dove Sports Scholarships, Dove Performing Arts Scholarships, Dove Foundation Scholarships (for Alumni/Foundation families), and Dove Emerging Leaders Scholarships. Each category offers up to 50% of tuition fees and is renewed each year if scholarship requirements are met. Dove Scholarships open for 2027 entry; applications close 31 March 2026; applicants complete an online form and are notified by email about shortlisting. Eligibility requires New Zealand Citizenship or Permanent Residency; scholarships are for new students entering Years 9–13. Shortlisted applicants and their parents attend an interview; a financial disclosure may be requested; decisions are final; if no applicants meet criteria, Kristin may not award any scholarships that year. | Scholarships St Cuthbert's offers General Scholarships (General Excellence, Boarding and Performing Arts) and Endeavour Scholarships. For 2027, applications are invited for entry in 2027; applications for all available scholarships are open; applicants may apply for only one scholarship; NZ citizens or NZ residents who are prospective students may apply; examinations and interviews determine outcomes; results are emailed; the principal's decision is final. The Endeavour Scholarships award up to four places each year for Māori and/or Pasifika descent joining in Year 7 and/or Year 9, and provide support through school years. The value of each Endeavour Scholarship starts at 25% of tuition fees per year, rising to 100% with demonstrated financial need; criteria include cultural participation, academic ability and leadership; candidates sit English and Mathematics exams and may be shortlisted for interview. The general scholarships include General Excellence, Boarding, and Performing Arts; a Performing Arts Scholarship has a maximum of 50% tuition; a Kathleen Goulding Old Girls' Association Scholarship has a maximum of 75% tuition; a Margaret Beale Scholarship has a maximum of 100% tuition; Macdonald Junior Academic Scholarship and Macdonald Senior Academic Scholarship are not available for 2027. Boarding Scholarships for 2027 cover Year 9 up to 100% of boarding fees and Year 11 up to 50% of boarding fees (tuition not included). Applications require completion of the checklist and submission by the closing date; 2027 timeline includes closing date 27 March 2026, scholarship exams 22 April 2026, and interviews in late May 2026. For questions contact Brenda Crean at scholarships@stcuthberts.school.nz or call 09 940 9157. |
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Waitlist
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Waitlist Applicants not selected for an entrance interview are placed in the Applicant Pool and may be contacted if an opportunity for an entrance interview arises at a later date. | Waitlist — |
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