Queen Margaret College vs Scots College

	Q Queen Margaret College Wellington, New Zealand	S Scots College Wellington, New Zealand
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year NZ$22,731 - 62,227	Fees / year NZ$42,000 - 52,000
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 5 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational, Girls School (boarding)	Type Co-educational, Co-educational (boarding)
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), Bespoke Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (DP), Bespoke Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 700	Pupils 2,211
Typical class size	Typical class size 20	Typical class size 21
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 1919	Opened 1916
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service No
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location 53 Hobson Street, Thorndon, Wellington 6011, New Zealand	Location The Scots College is located at 1 Monorgan Road, Strathmore Park, Wellington 6022, New Zealand. Strathmore Park is an eastern suburb close to Wellington Airport, and the campus is less than 15 minutes' drive to Wellington's central city. The campus sits on a sizeable site with extensive outdoor space. The College uses Metlink buses and exclusive Tranzit services for transport, with morning services arriving before 8:45am and afternoon services departing around 3:45pm.
Stages	Stages Preschool to Year 13	Stages Junior School (Year 0–6); Middle School (Year 7–10); Senior School (Year 11–13).
School type	School type Independent Presbyterian day school for girls	School type The Scots College is a co-educational school in Wellington for Years 0–13 and offers boarding for Year 9–13 in Gibb House.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix Representing over 40 nationalities	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support Learning Enrichment and support coordinated by Learning Enrichment Coordinator	Additional learning support Āwhina Learning Support (ALS) provides care and support for students who learn in different ways or who face learning challenges. The ALS team helps with literacy and numeracy, supports learning strategies, adapts curriculum and assessments, and liaises with the Wellbeing team.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation New Zealand	Country affiliation New Zealand
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation Presbyterian	Religious affiliation Affiliated with the Presbyterian Church.
School day structure	School day structure Junior School day 8:30am–3:00pm; Senior School day 8:30am–3:30pm	School day structure Morning transport arrivals occur before 8:45am; afternoon services depart by 3:45pm. The College offers Metlink buses and Tranzit services to support daily travel.
Bus service details	Bus service details QMC private bus for Wellington's Western Suburbs; Western Coach Service available with morning drop-offs and afternoon pickups; contact reception for details	Bus service details Metlink buses provide public transport to Scots College, and exclusive Tranzit buses serve Scots College students. Nearly all students use a Snapper card for public buses, with top-up facilities available at the school. Morning services arrive before 8:45am and afternoon services depart by 3:45pm, with routes to Wellington Station, Lambton Quay, Karori, and Crofton Downs; Tranzit services run to Crofton Downs, Khandallah, Ngaio, Churton Park, Island Bay, and the Hutt Valley as exclusive College services.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application and acceptance fees - Enrolment (application) fee: NZD 180 payable on application. - Acceptance fee: NZD 500 payable on acceptance of a place. - For international applicants: Registration fee NZD 300 and Acceptance fee NZD 1,500 (international fees are itemised separately below). Domestic tuition fees (2026) — per term and annual, by year group - Preschool: - School Day (per week): NZD 320; Weekly full fees: NZD 665. - Extended Day (per week): NZD 400; Weekly full fees: NZD 745. - Years 1–6: NZD 5,573 per term; NZD 22,290 per year. - Years 7–8: NZD 6,998 per term; NZD 27,990 per year. - Years 9–10: NZD 7,166 per term; NZD 28,665 per year. - Years 11–13: NZD 7,350 per term; NZD 29,400 per year. Notes on domestic tuition figures: - All amounts are quoted in New Zealand Dollars and include GST where required. The published tuition figures include the compulsory fees protection insurance charge, the technology levy and the building levy unless otherwise stated. A sibling discount of 10% on tuition fees applies for second and subsequent children (not applicable to Preschool or where a scholarship applies). International tuition and compulsory international charges (2026) - International tuition (annual scales): - Years 1–6: NZD 46,195 per year. - Years 7–13: NZD 55,495 per year. - Additional compulsory international charges (annual amounts shown): - Sundry activities deposit: NZD 2,500 (used for camps, private music lessons, etc.; unused portion refunded in line with the College refund policy). - Mentor fee: NZD 2,500. - Insurance (medical and travel; 12 months cover arranged by the College unless alternative policy provided): NZD 633 (compulsory unless a compliant alternative policy is supplied). - Homestay and related international boarding options: - Option 1 — Boarding (Queen Margaret House, 7-day, term time only): NZD 22,570 per year. Holiday homestay fee (term breaks only, fixed annual fee covering 7 weeks of term holidays): NZD 3,150. - Option 2 — Full homestay: NZD 450 per week for 45 weeks (NZD 20,250) plus homestay administration fee NZD 1,000. - Where additional ESOL support is required for international students, estimated extra cost is approximately NZD 3,000 per year. Boarding fees and deposits (2026) - Boarding deposit (domestic boarders): NZD 1,000 (non-refundable; deducted from boarding fees once the student is fully enrolled). - 7-day boarding (annual): NZD 22,570. - Holiday homestay (fixed annual fee covering 7 weeks of term holidays, if applicable): NZD 3,150. - Homestay (where arranged): NZD 450 per week for 45 weeks (NZD 20,250) plus NZD 1,000 homestay admin fee (when applicable). Community levies and other recurring charges - QMC Foundation Trust levy: NZD 50 per term (NZD 200 per year) — charged per family. - QMC Parents' Association levy: NZD 15 per term (NZD 60 per year) — charged per family. - QMC Old Girls' Association levy (Years 9–13): NZD 12.50 per term (NZD 50 per year) — charged per student. - Fees protection insurance: charged as a percentage of tuition (noted at 1.98% in the fees notes) and is compulsory for eligible year levels. Other costs and discretionary charges - Uniforms: Uniforms are additional to tuition. The College's exclusive retailer is New Zealand Uniforms (on-site collection and online ordering available) and the Parents' Association runs second‑hand uniform sales; uniform cost varies by items purchased. - Stationery, subject resources, field trips, camps, private music tuition, examination fees (NZQA for Years 11–13), specialist course charges, and other incidental costs may be charged in addition to tuition and will appear on regular invoices. Some subject or activity costs are charged as they occur. - Sundry activities deposit for international students (NZD 2,500) is used to pay for camps, private music lessons and similar items; any unused portion is refundable in line with the refund policy. Billing schedule, invoicing and payment terms - Invoicing: Fees are invoiced monthly; tuition and boarding fees are due by the 20th of the month following the invoice (terms and conditions). Preschool fees are payable monthly in advance by direct debit. - Instalment and payment plans: - A 10‑month instalment plan is available (payments due by the 10th of each month, February through November) where the parent/guardian nominates direct debit from a bank account. - Accepted payment methods: - Direct debit from a nominated bank account. - Online bank transfer to Queen Margaret College Fees Account (Westpac Wellington: 03 0518 0316528 09). - Credit card online payments (a 3% surcharge applies to credit card transactions). - Overdue accounts and charges: Interest of 5% per month may be charged on overdue accounts. The College may recover outstanding debts through solicitors or a debt collection agency and will require withdrawal of the student if fees remain unpaid. Refunds, withdrawal notice and related rules - No fee is refundable where the pupil does not start or does not complete a full term. - Notice of withdrawal: At least a term's written notice is required to withdraw a student from the College (and the Boarding House where applicable). Fees continue to be payable over the notice period. For withdrawal at the end of the school year, notice is required by the last teaching day of Term 3. Insufficient notice may incur a charge of up to twelve weeks' tuition in lieu of notice. - Sundry deposits (such as the international sundry activities deposit) may be refunded if unused in line with the College's refund policy. Mandatory protections and special charges - Fees protection insurance is compulsory for eligible domestic students (Years 1–13) and is charged as part of fees to provide continuity of tuition in the event of death or permanent disability as specified in the College policy. - International students must have medical and travel insurance arranged either through the College (compulsory cover shown) or via an alternative compliant policy provided in English. Summary of where amounts apply (quick reference) - Application/acceptance fees (domestic): Enrolment NZD 180; Acceptance NZD 500. - Domestic tuition per term (2026): Years 1–6 NZD 5,573; Years 7–8 NZD 6,998; Years 9–10 NZD 7,166; Years 11–13 NZD 7,350. - Boarding: Annual 7‑day boarding NZD 22,570; boarding deposit NZD 1,000 (non-refundable, deducted from boarding fees on full enrolment). - International annual tuition (2026): Years 1–6 NZD 46,195; Years 7–13 NZD 55,495; plus registration, acceptance, insurance, mentor fee and sundry deposit as itemised above. If any specific numeric conversions, breakdowns by term for international tuition, or an itemised invoice example are required for your database format, these published figures can be used directly as the definitive amounts for the 2026 year shown above.	Fee details Application and acceptance fees - Application fee (domestic): NZD 160 per student (one-off, payable when submitting an application). - Acceptance/Entrance fee: NZD 500 per student (non-refundable; payable to confirm and secure an offered place). - International enrolment processing fee: NZD 850 (one-off, non-refundable; applies to international students on acceptance). Tuition fees (domestic students) — 2026 (per month / per term / per year) - Years 1–6: NZD 2,298 per month; NZD 5,745 per term; NZD 22,980 per year. - Years 7–10: NZD 2,855 per month; NZD 7,138 per term; NZD 28,550 per year. - Years 11–13: NZD 2,970 per month; NZD 7,425 per term; NZD 29,700 per year. - Sibling tuition discounts (domestic): younger siblings receive a reduced tuition rate (examples shown in the domestic schedule). A 10% sibling discount applies to tuition for second and subsequent children concurrently attending the College; this discount does not apply to boarding, incidentals, or where a child receives a scholarship. Tuition fees (international students) — 2026 (per academic year) - Years 1–6 (international): NZD 42,000 per year. - Years 7–13 (international): NZD 52,000 per year. - International tuition is invoiced for the full calendar year and is payable at the beginning of the calendar year (prorated if the student commences part-way through the year). Boarding fees (domestic / international where applicable) — 2026 (per month / per term / per year) - 5-day boarding (Terms 1–3): NZD 1,998 per month; NZD 5,994 per term; NZD 19,980 per year. Term 4 has a specific (reduced) charge noted separately. - 7-day boarding (Terms 1–3): NZD 2,140 per month; NZD 6,420 per term; NZD 21,400 per year. Term 4 has a specific (reduced) charge noted separately. - International boarding (seven-day) is shown in the international schedule as NZD 21,400 per year (holiday homestay and full homestay options and admin fees are shown separately). Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition and boarding fees are billed as four instalments (January, March, June, and September). - All fee payers are required to provide a Direct Debit Authority; families may choose either four termly payments or a 10-month payment plan. Direct debits are typically collected on the 20th of the month and run from February to November. Monthly payments are available for Direct Debit customers on request. - Payment in full by the specified date (example: full-year payment by 17 December for the following year) qualifies for a 2% credit on the net tuition fee when paid in advance. - Incidentals and other charges are invoiced separately (incidental charges are collected monthly via direct debit unless alternative arrangements are made). Other compulsory charges, levies and bonds (domestic schedule) - Leavers bond: NZD 1,000 per student (paid prior to a student commencing; refunded in full once all accounts are settled after the student departs and subject timing rules). - Scots Foundation annual levy: NZD 150 per family (charged to support capital and philanthropic activity; not pro‑rated or refunded for partial year attendance). - Parents' Association annual levy: NZD 69 per family (not pro‑rated or refunded). - Scots Collegians Association levy: NZD 100 per student (not pro‑rated or refunded). - Overdue account penalties: up to 10% on overdue balances; the College may refuse continued enrolment or remove discounts/scholarships if fees remain unpaid and may pass outstanding debt to a collection agency (fees and costs of collection may be charged to the payer). Indicative additional costs and disbursements (international schedule examples; similar incidental costs apply to domestic students) - College uniform (estimate for international students): NZD 1,800 (compulsory uniform items estimate). - College incidental expenses (stationery, trips, miscellaneous): international estimate NZD 3,850 per year; incidental charges are invoiced termly or monthly as appropriate. - Insurance (international estimate, school's preferred supplier): NZD 725 per year. - Guardianship arrangements (recommended where applicable): estimate NZD 3,000 (international guidance). - Homestay costs (international estimates): holiday homestay based on an estimate (example NZD 420 per week); full homestay figures and homestay admin fees are shown in the international schedule. Refund information and notice requirements - Application fee and acceptance fee are non-refundable as stated in the fee schedule. - Leavers bond: refunded in full once all accounts are settled after a student's departure and subject to the College's timing rules (bonds do not incur interest). - Notice of withdrawal: at least a full term's written notice is required when withdrawing a student (from the College, the Boarding House, or any charged activity). Failure to give the required notice makes the payer liable for fees for the following term. - For international students, some charges and disbursements are returned if unspent at year end; the international schedule identifies which fees are non-refundable and gives guidance on invoicing and refunds for incidental accounts. - The College operates an Education Fees Protection Scheme with specific eligibility and benefit rules; that policy sets out circumstances and limits for fee protection and related entitlements. Fee payment options and account enquiries - Direct Debit: all new families are required to pay their monthly account by Direct Debit unless another arrangement acceptable to the College is agreed; options include termly (four instalments) or a 10-month plan. - Monthly payments are available for Direct Debit customers on request; incidental charges are typically collected monthly by direct debit. - The College's published schedule directs account enquiries and requests for alternative payment arrangements to the Business Centre / Finance team (finance@scotscollege.school.nz). Important administrative notes - Fees are reviewed annually and the next year's fees are normally published each December; billing and term dates follow the College calendar. - Failure to meet agreed payment arrangements can result in penalties, removal of discounts/scholarships, and possible refusal of continued enrolment. If you require the specific line items presented above in a different format, the domestic and international fee schedules and the College's Direct Debit and Education Fees Protection policy contain full detail and the numbers quoted here follow those published schedules for the 2026 academic year.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements Boarding at Queen Margaret College offers three accommodation options: Queen Margaret House (QMH), a luxury, purpose-built boarding house on campus; Queen Margaret Residence (QMR), opening in 2026 to provide a senior independent-living pathway for Years 12–13; and Homestays with a local family. Boarding is seven days a week for Years 7–13, with tailored options including short-term boarding. Boarders have access to on-site amenities such as the gym, fitness centre, dance studio, and music practice rooms, and meals are fully catered from a healthy global menu with the option of self-catering for senior students.	Boarding arrangements Boarding at Scots College has a long history dating to 1916. Gibb House was revitalised in 2007, and new boarding houses opened in 2015 and 2018, expanding capacity to over 100 and reintroducing seven-day boarding. Boarders are in Years 9–13 from across New Zealand and overseas, with about 50% international.
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement The school maintains a uniform, with New Zealand Uniforms as the exclusive retailer. The Uniform Guidelines govern dress and grooming, and there is online access to the NZ Uniforms store as well as information on second-hand uniform sales run by the Parents' Association.	Uniform requirement The Uniform Shop is on-site; new students must have uniform fittings by appointment. The daily uniform consists of a blazer, shirt/blouse, and tie, with either long or short trousers, Ie Faitaga, or a skirt with socks and black leather shoes. Two uniform styles are worn: No 1 on the first day of each term and for Chapel and trips away, and No 2 Monday to Thursday.
Food options	Food options Fully catered, varied, and nutritious meals from a healthy global menu, with the option of self-catering for senior students.	Food options Two food options are offered: the Tuck Shop and Chartres Dining Hall. The Tuck Shop is open every day for breakfast, morning tea, and lunch, with a changing specials menu; parents can place orders via MyKindo. Chartres Dining Hall serves day students and boarders; day students can opt in to receive lunch daily by registration or Chartres Lunch Booking Form.
House system	House system —	House system Junior School (Years 0–6) students are assigned to a House for the duration of the Junior School; where there is a family connection, students are placed in the same House. Junior Houses are Bedding, Macarthur, McKelvie, and Potatau. In Middle and Senior Schools (Years 7–13), each student is assigned to a House that remains throughout their time; Houses include Aitken, Fergusson, Glasgow, MacKenzie, Mawson, Plimmer, Smith, and Uttley.
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership The College is governed by the Queen Margaret College Board of Governors. The Queen Margaret College Foundation Trust, formed in 2005, is an independent registered charity that supports the college's financial security and fundraising for buildings and scholarships, operating with not-for-profit status.	Governance and ownership The governing body is the Board of Governors, appointed annually and chaired by Paul Ridley-Smith. It includes representatives of the Presbytery, Scots Collegians' Association, and the Parents' Association, with other members nominated by the Board. It is responsible for finances, the College's future, and the development of new projects.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details Queen Margaret College is an International Baccalaureate World School. Years 1–6 follow the Primary Years Programme (IB). Years 7–10 follow the Middle Years Programme (IB). In Year 11, students undertake New Zealand's National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA) Level 1 and may continue with NCEA Levels 2 and 3 or pursue the two-year International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB DP) in Years 12–13. The school emphasizes dual senior pathways to suit individual strengths and learning styles.	Curriculum details Scots College offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) across the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and Diploma Programme (DP), with a dual senior pathway granting a choice between NCEA and the IB Diploma. The IB programmes were introduced at Scots College in 2008 (PYP and MYP) and the Diploma in 2010, and the Senior School provides Years 12–13 with either NCEA or IB Diploma. Future-Focussed Learning is embedded, with courses aligning NZ Curriculum objectives alongside IB design. The Junior School uses the NZ Curriculum with an inquiry approach and Te Reo Māori is integrated in the programmes. The school emphasises a holistic, future-ready approach across all three schools.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio Class sizes: Year 1 – 15; Year 2 – 18; Years 3–6 – 22; Years 7–8 – 24; Years 9–10 – 25. These target sizes are set to maintain manageable learning environments with occasional variation.
Exam results	Exam results IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) Results 2025: 98% pass rate; average score 34; 9 students (20%) scored 40+; 3 bilingual diplomas; IB Dux Madeleine Wilson achieved a perfect 45. National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA) Results 2025: Level 1 pass rate 96%; Level 2 pass rate 98%; Level 3 pass rate 98%; endorsements include 81% Merit or Excellence at Level 1, 88% at Level 2, and 68% at Level 3. University Entrance (UE) 2025 pass rate: 98%.	Exam results Year 11 no longer offers NCEA Level 1; from 2024, NCEA Level 1 is not assessed. Year 12/13 require 80 credits to achieve Levels 2 or 3 (60 at the target level plus 20 Literacy and Numeracy). NZ Scholarship is available for Year 13. University Entrance (UE) is required to qualify for university admission in New Zealand, with a typical UE standard involving 14 Level 3 credits in three subjects, plus English Level 2 and Maths Level 1 credits, though a points-based system now applies and the minimum often equates to higher overall credit attainment. Upon completion, students choose either NCEA or IB Diploma pathway for Years 12–13.
Higher education progression	Higher education progression Pathways after school include opportunities to go to University, a Polytechnic or begin an Apprenticeship; the college presents these options clearly to students in Year 11–13 as part of its Careers and future pathways.	Higher education progression Nearly all students gain University Entrance. University Entrance preliminarily qualifies a student to a place at university in New Zealand, with 14 UE credits at Level 3 in three subjects, plus English and Maths credit requirements, though the final admission depends on a points-based system and university variation. NCEA results are recognized by tertiary institutions and employers, and the Senior School offers pathways through Years 12–13 that can lead to NZ and overseas higher education opportunities.
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented Learning Enrichment lessons and Extension programs provide challenge for high-ability students, with extension activities such as debating, public speaking, essay and creative writing competitions, Ethics Olympiad and Scholarship examinations. New Zealand Scholarships are available for high achievers (IB and NCEA eligible). LEAP and the ELEVATE Year 11 Programme offer accelerated and enriched learning options. Three students earned bilingual IB diplomas in 2025. The school also highlights international-level success of gifted students, such as a World Scholar's Cup team reaching Yale finals in 2024 with multiple medals.	Gifted and talented Able & Ambitious identifies academically able students and provides opportunities to extend beyond the standard curriculum, including enrichment events such as the Ethics Olympiad, ThinkTank, World Scholar's Cup, Tournament of Minds, CRISiSLab, and Model UN/EU, with progress monitored by a designated coordinator.
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning QMC implements a Proactive Wellbeing Strategy to support social and emotional learning, with THRIVE as a wellbeing programme designed for Year 7–13 that builds on six pillars of wellbeing. The school emphasises purpose, accomplishment, engagement, emotional strength, positive relationships and wellness, and provides parent talks through a Parent Speaker Series to help families discuss difficult topics. School wellbeing resources include access to SchoolTV for families.	Social & emotional learning PERFORM is the wellbeing framework at Scots College, comprising Purpose, Engagement, Relationships, Faith, Organisation, and Resilience, with Maintenance. The framework guides pastoral care, classroom practice, tutorials, and assemblies to promote wellbeing and engagement. Explicit teaching of social skills and values supports relational development, and a restorative approach to behaviour management keeps relationships at the centre of pastoral care. The college promotes healthy relationships through explicit social-emotional learning, a health curriculum, and programs such as the House system and student-led activities. The Wellbeing Centre provides confidential counselling and mental health support, and the Wellbeing Team builds student wellbeing capability with strategies that students can use now and in the future. Staff are trained in Youth Mental Health First Aid to recognise and respond to mental health concerns and connect students with appropriate support.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) —	Special educational needs (SEN) The Āwhina Learning Support (ALS) Team cares for and supports students who face challenges in learning or who learn in different ways. Some challenges are short-term (physical, mental, or emotional wellbeing) and others are ongoing (neurological, cognitive, auditory, or visual). The team helps students develop literacy and numeracy, learning and study strategies, and self-belief and work ethic. They support teachers by adapting curriculum and assessments to ensure teaching is diverse and inclusive in approach, running classes for a small number of students at the Principals' discretion, and endeavouring to ensure provision of Special Assessment Conditions. They liaise closely with the Scots College Wellbeing team. Valuing every learner, recognising their potential, growing their achievement.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language International students and other students needing English language support receive inclusive English language tuition as part of tuition; additional ESOL tuition is available at extra cost, with regular testing and progress updates, specialist Speech and Drama lessons to boost fluency and confidence, and small classes to cater to individual needs.	English as an additional language English is the language used as the medium of instruction and communication, with staff acting as liaison with Māori and Pasifika families. Te Reo Māori and NZSL are embraced and used; Te Reo Māori is taught to all Junior School students as an additional language. In Year 7, students experience a language carousel of Te Reo Māori, Spanish, French, and Chinese, and Middle School students select one of those languages or English acquisition (MTLOTE). Continued language study in Senior School is encouraged but not compulsory (except for IB Diploma students). In the IB Diploma years, students may continue to study an additional language and/or literature in a language where there is native or near-native proficiency when possible. The college actively seeks to support MTLOTE and mother-tongue learning for MTLOTE students.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is supported by on-site school nurses available daily, on-site school psychologists, a school chaplain, and a Kaiārahi who supports Māori and Pasifika students. Restorative conversations guide student behavior, and SchoolTV provides wellbeing resources for families.	Mental wellbeing The Wellbeing Centre provides confidential counselling and mental health support and is open on school days, with the Wellbeing Team consisting of the College Counsellor and Director of Wellbeing who oversee counselling and health services for students and staff. The team delivers counselling and mental health nursing in a safe, confidential space to help individuals talk through difficulties and make changes. Appointments can be made via the Scot-E Wellbeing area or by referrals through the online forms. Scots College has implemented key wellbeing initiatives, including the Komodo Wellbeing Application, the Stand-Up Project (SUP), and Youth Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training for staff. Five staff members completed MHFA instructor training to train others and build a network of wellbeing support across the community, with a focus on early intervention and connecting students to appropriate support. The MHFA program aims to improve mental health literacy and reduce stigma so students feel empowered to seek help.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding Safeguarding is embedded in wellbeing and pastoral care, with a Deputy Principal of Wellbeing and year Deans supporting students; on-site nurses, the Reverend as chaplain, and a Kaiārahi providing pastoral and cultural support. The school uses restorative conversations, Cyber Safety resources, and a Family Harm Awareness alert system developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and NZ Police to support students after incidents.	Safeguarding Scots College has a Child Protection Policy that applies to any student defined as a child under the Children's Act 2014 and uses a framework for student safety. The policy includes provisions for identifying and reporting abuse and neglect, with Abuse Recognition and Reporting details. Guidance aligns with partnership/mahi tahi, protection/kaitiakitanga, and participation/whai wahi, and te Tiriti o Waitangi, with involvement of family/whānau in decision-making. Student welfare is the primary concern, and the college keeps students at the centre of decision-making, with systems to recognise and respond to concerns. A designated child protection person (the child protection coordinator or deputy) is the primary point of contact for concerns about students, and a child protection team may consult with the coordinator, headmaster, principals, and the board. If a wellbeing concern is raised, procedures for Responding to Student Wellbeing Concerns are followed, and information may be shared with external agencies as appropriate. The school may engage with external agencies to address student protection needs and has a process for information sharing and review of child protection matters. For more detail, see Supporting Student Wellbeing and related procedures.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview 53 Hobson Street, Thorndon, Wellington 6011, New Zealand. Queen Margaret House (QMH) is a spacious boarding house on campus with full catering and 42 rooms. Queen Margaret Residence (QMR) opened January 2026 as a senior boarding option with 9 two‑person rooms, an open‑plan kitchen and dining area, a large lounge and a study zone, and it sits on campus with easy access to classrooms. The campus includes event and performance venues such as Old Hall, Auditorium, Atrium, Assembly Hall and the Old Gym. Onsite catering is available for events held on site. The campus provides access to a gym, a fitness centre, a tennis court, a dance studio, music practice rooms and outdoor recreational spaces.	Facilities overview The school has a campus at 1 Monorgan Road, Strathmore Park, Wellington, with significant outdoor space and facilities for learning, sport, and culture. The classrooms, laboratories, and venues for sports and cultural activities are equipped with state-of-the-art technology. The Creative and Performing Arts Centre spans three floors and includes facilities for film and animation production, a fully rigged stage, a drama theatre, acoustically designed practice rooms, a recording studio, and a dedicated rehearsal studio. Flexible Learning Environments are found throughout the College, including the McKinnon Block, which also houses Food Science facilities and a fabrication lab with advanced equipment.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities The Old Gym is our smaller gym with a netball and basketball court suitable for junior students. The campus also provides a gym and fitness centre, a tennis court and a dance studio, as well as music practice rooms and outdoor recreational spaces. A Sports Hall is available on campus for various activities.	Sports facilities The school has playing fields, all-weather outdoor courts, a weights room, and a fully equipped gymnasium. The gymnasium features a multi-purpose court for basketball and netball, and the Hodge Sports Centre serves as a second gym with an indoor cricket practice facility that has four lanes.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities A key arts facility cluster includes a purpose built music suite, an excellent performance space, an auditorium and a number of tuition rooms; there are two well‑equipped drama classrooms to support music, drama and performance education.	Academic facilities The school provides classrooms and laboratories, technology spaces, and spaces for arts and design, including a specialist arts centre, graphics suite, drama suite, and a music centre. There are flexible learning environments for individual and collaborative study, a Careers Centre, Common Rooms for senior students, and a tiered lecture theatre.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities Performing arts offer major biennial productions, House Performing Arts, a number of choirs, instrumental ensembles, a Pasifika group Te Whānau o Kuīni Mākareta, Shakespeare festivals, and specialist lessons in instrumental music, singing, Speech and Drama. Queen's Edge is an exciting after‑school extra‑curricular programme for Years 7–9 with courses such as Viva Italia, Crown Creators and Queen of Hearts. Education outside the classroom (EOTC) weeks and camps provide outdoor learning and activities. The Year 7–10 Extracurricular programme highlights sports, performing arts and leadership opportunities, with one‑on‑one private lessons and a range of courses (e.g., CheckMates chess). There are also opportunities for leadership, international experiences and service learning.	Extra curricular facilities The Creative and Performing Arts Centre supports arts-based activities with facilities for film and animation production, a stage, a drama theatre, acoustically designed practice rooms, a recording studio, and a rehearsal studio. Rāta Studios operates within CPAC for after-school, evening, and weekend sessions.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Queen Margaret College first opened on 19 February 1919 with 53 pupils. The Scottish Presbyterian founders were The Hon. John Aitken and The Very Rev. Dr James Gibb, who believed in girls' education. The main building was originally built as a family homestead in Hobson Street, Thorndon by T.C. Williams. Special assemblies such as Founders' Day, Queen Margaret Day, Prefect Commissioning and House Banners maintain the history and traditions of the College in daily life. Today the College delivers a holistic education that emphasises community service and raises awareness of the needs of others.	History Scots College was established by the Presbyterian Church and remains affiliated to the Church. In 1916, Dr Gibb proposed creating the College to build strong Christian character on a broad religious basis, train for useful citizenship and service, and direct the courses of study to meet individual students' needs with small classes for personal attention. The College is a co-educational, Presbyterian, day and boarding school comprising three schools in one: Junior School (Years 0–6), Middle School (Years 7–10), and Senior School (Years 11–13). It is an IB World School with a history of over 100 years of education, and the motto is Virtutem Paret Doctrina — let education build all-round character.
Community	Community We believe learning happens in partnership, and we're proud of the relationships with our old girls, parents and supporters who are committed to enhancing the experience of our students. The Old Girls' Association keeps alumni connected and widens opportunities for current students. The Foundation Trust, formed in 2005, enables ongoing financial security and funds projects that support the college's facilities and independence. The Parents' Association provides a social way for families to be involved in the life of their child's school, raises funds for projects that benefit students, hosts events to celebrate and promote cultural diversity, and sponsors awards and leadership training for seniors. MentorMatch Programme and Associate Governor Programme are also part of our community.	Community The Scots College community comprises students, current and past parents, past pupils, staff, the Board, and others who contribute to the College's development. Key groups include the Scots Collegians Association, the Parents' Association, the Scots College Foundation, the Development Office, the Friends of Scots College, the Board of Governors, and the Scots College Supporters' Club. The community supports ongoing communication with parents and friends of the College and participates in activities that advance the College's life and development.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association The QMC Parents Association provides a social, enjoyable way for families to be involved in the life of their child's school. They raise funds for projects that benefit current students, host events to celebrate and promote cultural diversity, and sponsor several Awards and leadership training for seniors.	Parent teacher association The Parents' Association fosters a strong partnership between parents, school staff, and the wider community to support students' education and wellbeing. It collaborates with the school administration to organise community events, fundraising initiatives, and volunteer activities that benefit students from Junior to Senior School. Members are invited to monthly meetings at the College or online, with a typical time commitment of about 2 hours per month. The Association has a leadership team with roles such as President, Vice President, Treasurer, and Secretary. A mailing list is available for those who want to help from time to time, and inquiries can be sent to the provided email.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual Queen's Edge is an after-school programme for Years 7–9 designed to develop students' skills, talents and passions, expand their knowledge and world view, cultivate essential life skills and foster a lifelong love of learning. Tutors are passionate practitioners dedicated to inspiring and nurturing the next generation of courageous learners, with some Term 1 courses led by prefects to foster sisterhood. Courses cover languages, culture, service and other disciplines to broaden students' academic horizons. Each term offers fresh Queen's Edge experiences to support growth.	Academic & intellectual The school has Matamoe Hub, Te Puna Ora o Ngā Matamoe, a technology education centre where aspiring coders, engineers, and inventors come together to build, code, and collaborate. The school has programmes and resources that empower students to develop problem-solving abilities, critical thinking skills, and creativity in the creative and digital technologies fields. The school has a focus on hands-on exploration of technology, design, and engineering for students in Years 4 to 13.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative Arts programmes are delivered by an outstanding group of teachers and tutors. Performing Arts builds confidence and connection, with musicals and performances as part of the curriculum; private lessons, a choir or a cultural club are available. The arts are supported by an emphasis on Arts excellence, with strong programmes across the Arts and dedicated staff.	Arts & creative The school has Rāta Studios, established in 2013, offering specialised professional courses in drama, music, visual art, and creative technologies. The school has Rāta Studios run out of the Creative and Performing Arts Centre (CPAC) after school, in the evenings, and on weekends. The school has a CPAC facility described as a state-of-the-art hub with a fully equipped theatre, recording studio, art spaces, acoustically designed music practice rooms, a designated rehearsal studio, and facilities for film and animation production. The school has opportunities for students to participate in performing arts, show productions, and competitions such as the Shakespeare Globe Centre NZ Festival and Showquest.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language Viva Italia is an Italian language and culture course offered through Queen's Edge. Queen's Edge also includes courses such as Chinese Culture Club and other international offerings, broadening language and cultural exposure. Across subjects, there are opportunities for international exchanges and mentorship programmes. Queen's Edge includes programmes like Global Queens to connect with international experiences.	Cultural & language The school has Alo Fa'atasi, a Pasifika group that celebrates Pacific languages and cultural practices and is open to Years 1–13. The group practices for Tu Tagata Polynesian Festival and operates with a signed constitution enabling funding opportunities. The school has Language Weeks each year, dedicating Term 2 and Term 3 to celebrating two languages.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies Queen's Edge offers a range of social and hobby activities, including CheckMates! chess, Queen's Grace ballroom dancing, Queen's Feast cooking and other creative pursuits. Performing Arts provides opportunities to participate in musicals, private lessons, choir or cultural clubs. Education outside the classroom includes clubs and trips that encourage curiosity and new perspectives. Queen's Edge fosters sisterhood and lasting friendships through termly courses led by prefects.	Social & hobbies The school has a Chess Club that competes in College Sport Wellington and the NZSS Championships. The club participates in lunchtime events and regional and national championships. The school has a Pipe Band, which brings together students across year groups to learn bagpipes or drums, perform at College and community functions, and compete locally.
Community & service	Community & service Queen's Edge includes the Queen of Hearts service programme, offering opportunities to engage in meaningful service activities and develop civic responsibility. Projects benefit the school and wider community and are guided by a Service Prefect, building leadership, teamwork and empathy. Participants gain a sense of purpose by contributing to charitable initiatives and school causes.	Community & service The school has service as an important part of all-round character. The Boarding programme highlights service to the local community as part of the Gibb House and other service initiatives. The Special Character emphasises that service is a motivation of the Presbyterian ethos and pastoral life.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Queen's Edge provides leadership opportunities, with some courses led by prefects and a focus on developing leadership and collaboration skills. Service Prefect Teresa Li leads the Queen of Hearts programme, offering concrete leadership experience. Leadership and community service are woven into QMC's extracurricular offerings to empower students to lead and serve.	Leadership & professional The school has student leadership opportunities with Senior School students taking on leadership roles within their Houses and across the College. The House system provides avenues for mentoring and leadership development, and students can take on Prefect, House Leader, or student representative roles.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Education outside the classroom includes challenging outdoor activities, trips and clubs as part of EOTC week to broaden learning and wellbeing. Sports provide social, disciplinary and health benefits, with options to compete or participate for fun. The THRIVE wellbeing programme is designed for Year 7–13, with tutor-led sessions that address six pillars of wellbeing and personal growth. Parent resources include a Speaker Series and SchoolTV as wellbeing supports for families.	Lifestyle & wellbeing The school has a Wellbeing Centre with a dedicated counselling team and a Director of Wellbeing offering confidential, accessible support. The Wellbeing Centre works with House Deans, Chaplains, and the Health Team to promote student wellbeing and resilience.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision French, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese and Te Reo Māori are taught at QMC.	Language provision Te Reo Māori is taught across the Junior School and is an important part of the IB Middle Years Programme Languages Programme in the Middle School. In Senior School, Te Ao Haka is offered, including Te Reo Māori at NCEA Levels 2 and 3. Spanish is taught at Scots College. Alo Fa'atasi promotes Pacific languages and cultural practices, and National Language Weeks celebrate Pacific languages in Terms 2 and 3.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching Te Reo Māori is taught as a specialist subject in the Junior School. Te Reo Māori is an important part of the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) Languages Programme in the Middle School. The Senior School offers Te Ao Hāka as a Year 11 option, and in Years 12–13 Te Ao Haka is offered as an NCEA Level 2 and 3 option, providing access to Te Reo Māori.
Immersion programs	Immersion programs Tahiti (French), Japan (Japanese), China (Mandarin), Chile (Spanish) language immersion trips.	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards IBO Report 2021 — IB evaluation report published in 2021. Primary Years Programme Commendations — embedding the IB learner profile and promoting student voice and awareness of issues. Middle Years Programme Commendations — nurturing a respectful learning environment and student responsibility; use of assessment data to strengthen practice. Diploma Programme Commendations — promoting awareness of local and global issues and encouraging critical thinking and student ownership of learning. Five-Year IB Review — outstanding result from the IB review.	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations International Baccalaureate World School — delivers the Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme and Diploma Programme (IB World School) with IB evaluation recognizing the college's IB education.	Accreditations —
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions Domestic Enrolments: Read the Terms and Conditions before starting the online application. Complete and submit the online application with a non-refundable application fee of $180. Following a review of the application, the applicant's daughter will be invited to an interview with the Principal. Following the interview, an Offer of Place may be issued. The applicant should return the confirmation and the non-refundable acceptance fee of $460 within 14 working days. Once the acceptance is received, confirmation of place is sent. International Enrolments: Read the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Statement before starting the application. Complete and submit the application with a non-refundable application fee of $250. If enrolling more than one child, use a separate form for each. Following a review of your application, we will advise you if your daughter has been selected for an interview with the Director of International Students. A translator will be provided if necessary. English testing if required. Following the selection process, you may receive an Offer of Place along with a form to confirm acceptance. Once acceptance is received, confirmation of your place at QMC will be sent.	Admissions 1. Applications for enrolments in 2027 and beyond are open. Junior School applications for enrolment in 2027 close on Tuesday, 31 March 2026. Middle School applications for enrolment in 2027 close on Thursday, 2 April 2026. Senior School enrolments are welcome at any stage throughout the year, with limited places available at each year level. 2. How to apply: Within New Zealand, complete the online enrolment form. For international students, use the enroller.app application. After submitting an application, you will be contacted by staff to inform you of the status of your application and to arrange an interview with the Principal. 3. What happens after I send in an application form: You will be contacted by staff to learn the status of your application and to arrange an interview with the Principal. 4. If capacity is reached, a waitpool system is instituted and you will be notified if your application is in the waitpool. Places are filling faster than in previous years. 5. Do you offer scholarships?: Scholarships are available to students in Years 7 and 9, as well as Senior School students (Years 11–13). Applications for 2027 scholarships are now open.
Scholarships	Scholarships The QMC Scholarship Programme is available to Years 7 through 13 for domestic students. It recognizes the College values of generosity, resilience, respect, integrity and courage, and rewards achievement in academics, sport, the arts, cultural pursuits, service or across multiple disciplines. Scholarships are effective through to Year 13 if the scholarship expectations are met; scholarship types may vary by year level and enrolment availability. The application process has no fee and a maximum of two scholarships may be applied for. Required documentation includes evidence of age, identity and New Zealand citizenship or permanent residency; a CV; a character reference; copies of two most recent school reports; copies of PAT/e-asTTle or NZQA records; evidence of participation in cocurricular activities, service or leadership, sporting excellence or cultural pursuits; a simple passport-style headshot; attendance at the scholarship examination if applicable; and if shortlisted an interview with the Principal. Scholarships open for 2027: Year 7 to 10 open 25 March - 24 April; Year 11 to 13 open 1 April - 1 May. Not currently offering Other Scholarships & Bursaries. For more information, contact enrolments.	Scholarships Middle School (Year 7–10) Scholarships: Year 7 offers Academic, Music, General Excellence, and Sport scholarships. Year 9 offers Academic, Music, General Excellence, Boarding, Pipe Band, Sport, and Scots Collegians Association scholarships. Senior School (Year 11–13) Scholarships: International Baccalaureate (IB) Scholarships; Pipe Band; General Excellence; Boarding; Music; Academic; Hardship/Financial Assistance; Sport; Tup Radford Science Scholarship; Scots Collegians Association Scholarship. Applications for 2027 Scholarships are open for both Middle and Senior School, with deadlines of March 31, 2026 for Year 7–10 scholarships and May 3, 2026 for Senior School scholarships. The College funds scholarships from the Foundation, tuition discounts, and benefactors. Approximately 60% are merit-based and 40% are needs-based; most scholarships cover a portion of tuition fees. Some scholarships are 100% unavailable. Sibling discounts do not apply when one child is awarded a scholarship. External scholarships include Māori Education Trust Scholarships and a Ministry of Education boarding allowance. Scholarships may be awarded based on merit, need, or a combination, and are reviewed annually; Middle School scholarships include an exam component for academic scholarships and a panel/interview process for other categories. External and internal application paths are available. For questions about scholarships, contact the College's Development Team or relevant regional staff.
Waitlist	Waitlist Waitlisting at QMC describes a waitlist as a queue-based system. Applicants are eligible for entry but a place is not immediately available. The waitlists are managed chronologically by the date an application is received and do not rank applicants on the waitlist. Factors considered include date of application, family connections to QMC (daughters of Old Girls, siblings, extended family connections, e.g. grandparent who is an alumna), children of current staff, and, in some cases, boarders, international students or diplomats. Scholarships may affect waitlist considerations. Waitlisted families are kept updated, and waitlist movement depends on space availability.	Waitlist When capacity is reached, a waitpool system is instituted and applicants are notified if their application is in the waitpool.
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