Saint Kentigern College vs St Cuthbert's College

	S Saint Kentigern College Auckland, New Zealand	S St Cuthbert's College Auckland, New Zealand
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year NZ$28,422 - 51,232	Fees / year NZ$27,500 - 63,088
Age range	Age range 11 - 18 years	Age range 5 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational, Co-educational (boarding)	Type Girls School, Girls School (boarding)
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (DP), Bespoke Curriculum	Curriculum IB (DP), Bespoke Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 2,325	Pupils 1,633
Typical class size	Typical class size 24	Typical class size —
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 1953	Opened 1915
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service No
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Pakuranga Campus, 130 Pakuranga Road, Pakuranga, Auckland, New Zealand. The campus sits in the Pakuranga area of Auckland and is part of Saint Kentigern College. Directions and bus information are available to assist travel to the campus.	Location Located in Epsom, Auckland, New Zealand. The campus address is 122 Market Road, Epsom, Auckland 1051.
Stages	Stages Years 7-13 (ages 11-18)	Stages Junior School Years 0–6; Senior School Years 7–10; Senior School Years 11–13.
School type	School type —	School type The school is an all-girls day and boarding school.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	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.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation New Zealand	Country affiliation New Zealand
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation Presbyterian	Religious affiliation —
School day structure	School day structure —	School day structure —
Bus service details	Bus service details Bus information is available for the Pakuranga Campus.	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
Fee details	Fee details Enrolment and application fees - APPLICATION FEE: NZD 300.00 (payable when submitting an application; non-refundable). - ACCEPTANCE FEE (enrolment confirmation): NZD 500.00 (invoiced when a place is offered; non-refundable). - ASSOCIATION FEE (lifetime Alumni / Parents & Friends membership): NZD 775.00 (invoiced on offer; non-refundable). - CONTRIBUTION LEVY (all students): NZD 1,500.00 (invoiced on offer). Tuition fees — College (Years 9–13) - Annual tuition fee (applies to College students): NZD 28,422.00 per year. - Per term (calculated): NZD 7,105.50 per term (annual tuition divided by four). (This per-term figure is a calculation based on the published annual tuition.) - Per month if using the 10-month instalment plan (calculated): NZD 2,842.20 per month (annual tuition divided by 10). (This per‑month figure is a calculation based on the published annual tuition and the school's 10‑month instalment option.) Boarding fees (Bruce House) - Annual boarding fee (term time only): NZD 21,810.00 per year. Boarding fees are charged in addition to tuition. - Per term (calculated): NZD 5,452.50 per term (annual boarding fee divided by four). (Per‑term figure is a calculation.) - Boarding does not include tuition; weekly and full‑term boarding options are available within the boarding programme. Other compulsory and typical costs - SOFTWARE LICENCE FEE (one-off): NZD 250.00. - PUBLICATIONS FEE (annual, approximate): NZD 200.00. - UNIFORM (approximate cost for newly enrolled students to obtain full uniform): NZD 1,300.00 (approx). Second‑hand options may reduce this cost. - LAPTOP BUNDLE: Variable — an approved laptop bundle (device, accidental damage cover, extended warranty, carry case) is required from Year 6 and is available through the school's preferred supplier. - IB DIPLOMA CHARGE (for students taking the IB in Years 12–13): NZD 1,000.00 per year (charged in instalments where indicated). - ADDITIONAL CURRICULUM / SUBJECT COSTS: Variable — extra charges may apply depending on year level and subject selection (examples: specialist subject levies, field trips, workbooks, camps, overnight excursions, external exam fees). - SPORTS / CO-CURRICULAR TRIP COSTS: Variable — charges depend on participation and event. - BUS FARES: Variable — fares depend on route and distance; route and fare details are updated each year. Billing schedule and payment terms - Domestic (NZ) accounts: All accounts require payment by Direct Debit unless tuition is paid in full under the early‑payment options. Direct Debits (including incidentals) are processed on the 20th of each month (January to December). - Early payment discounts: - Full payment in advance by 05 December of the prior year: 1.5% discount on net tuition. - Full payment by 20 January: 0.9% discount on net tuition. - Instalment option: Tuition may be spread over 10 months (February to November) by Direct Debit; incidentals may be direct‑debited January–December. - Overdue and transaction charges: Interest on overdue balances may be charged at 1% per month. Payments made by credit card incur a 2% surcharge. Dishonoured payments attract a dishonour fee (NZD 20). - International student billing: Annual international tuition and boarding costs are billed in November of the year before entry and are payable in a single lump sum by the end of November; a paid receipt is required to support a student visa application. Refunds, notice and withdrawal - APPLICATION, ACCEPTANCE and ASSOCIATION FEES are non‑refundable. - If a student is unable to attend at the beginning of a term, fees remain due; the Trust Board does not undertake to remit or refund fees for illness, quarantine, or other causes. - NOTICE OF WITHDRAWAL: A minimum of one term's written notice to the College Principal is required to withdraw a student (day or boarder). Without correct notice, full fees for the following term will be charged in lieu of notice. - FEE PROTECTION: The Trust Board operates a Fee Protection Scheme that may cover tuition (and boarding where applicable) in the event of the death of a fee‑paying parent or legal guardian; entry is automatic upon payment of the first fee instalment and eligibility restrictions apply. Sibling discounts and concessions - SIBLING DISCOUNT: 5% off tuition for two family members attending Saint Kentigern campuses; 10% off tuition where three or more family members attend. Students receiving scholarships or other concessions are not eligible for the sibling discount. Payment methods and practical notes - Direct Debit is the required method for ongoing billing and instalments. Credit card payments are accepted but attract a 2% surcharge. Overdue amounts may accrue interest. Dishonoured payments incur an NZD 20 fee. For international enrolments, annual tuition and boarding are billed and must be paid in full to provide a receipt for visa purposes. How additional charges are handled - Many costs beyond tuition and boarding (subject levies, EOTC camps, field trips, workbook charges, elective programme fees, sports tours) are variable and billed as required; these are direct‑debited as incidentals unless otherwise invoiced. Contacts for accounts and payments - Accounts / Finance contact for fee queries: accounts@saintkentigern.com ; Phone: +64 9 577 0747.	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
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements Bruce House is the on-campus boarding facility for Saint Kentigern College students in Years 9–13 (ages 13–18). It is a small, welcoming hostel set in landscaped grounds with views of the Tamaki Estuary. Boarders benefit from supervised evening prep time and dedicated duty staff who are College teachers, with a diverse community that participates in College life, sport and cultural activities.	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.
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement There are two daywear uniforms—Years 7–10 (Middle School) and Years 11–13 (Senior School)—with a formal uniform worn on Formal Friday during winter. Prefects wear kilts for formal occasions, and a separate sports uniform is worn for Physical Education. Uniform items are available from the on-site Mungo's Uniform Shop or online; sample sizes are available and second-hand uniforms can be purchased.	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.
Food options	Food options Saint Kentigern Trust runs the Senior School Saints Café and the Middle School Kents Café, offering a range of healthy foods and drinks with much of the food prepared onsite and menus that change regularly. Saints Café operates before school, at interval, and at lunch from 7:00am to 2:00pm, with online ordering for collection through the OLE and charges to the parent account; orders must be placed by 9:00am. The Cafés accommodate dietary requirements and provide contact details for the Café Manager.	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.
House system	House system All students belong to one of six houses: Cargill, Chalmers, Hamilton, Wishart, Stark, and Wilson. Within each house, students are organised into Tutor Groups, with Year 7–8 forming Form Classes. Heads of House oversee pastoral care within a tutor-based family structure across the College.	House system The college has three boarding houses—Melrose, Dunblane and Elgin—that accommodate different year levels as students progress through Years 9–13.
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership The Saint Kentigern Trust Board is the governing body for Saint Kentigern College and the four Saint Kentigern schools. It is an independent body with the power to appoint its members and was founded in 1949 to provide schools for boys in Auckland; the Trust Deed was amended in 1995 to educate girls as well. In 2009, the Corran and Saint Kentigern Trust Boards merged, with staffing and operations for the Girls' School campus brought under the Trust.	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
Curriculum details	Curriculum details The Senior School offers a broad range of subjects across Arts, Commerce, Humanities, Languages, Applied Mathematics, Sciences and Technology. In Year 11, every student undertakes the NCEA Level 1 qualification. In Years 12 and 13, students may choose between the International Baccalaureate Diploma and the New Zealand Qualifications Authority's NCEA. The IB Diploma is a two-year program with six subjects (three at Higher Level and three at Standard Level), one language as a second language, and core requirements of Extended Essay, Theory of Knowledge and Creativity, Activity and Service. The NZQA/NCEA path comprises Levels 1–3 with internal and external assessments; most subjects offer 16–20 credits per subject, and Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 enable progression toward certificates. A Course Handbook provides comprehensive information about the core curriculum and elective subjects.	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.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results In 2023, Level 1 NCEA achieved a pass rate of 98.8% (415/420), with 40.96% Excellence Endorsement and 44.82% Merit Endorsement; 86% achieved Excellence or Merit Endorsement. Level 2 NCEA achieved 99.29% (279/281) with 31.54% Excellence Endorsement and 47.67% Merit Endorsement; 79% achieved Excellence or Merit Endorsement. Level 3 NCEA achieved 97.84% (272/278); 21.94% Excellence Endorsement and 48.2% Merit Endorsement; 70% achieved Excellence or Merit Endorsement. The University Entrance rate for the year stands at 91%.	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.
Higher education progression	Higher education progression Graduates have progressed to universities worldwide, including Harvard, Oxford, Cambridge, University of Pennsylvania, London School of Economics, New York University, University of Melbourne, and University of Sydney.	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.
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented Extension for High Achievers includes acceleration in Mathematics, enrichment opportunities, NZQA Scholarship programmes, and mentoring.
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning The Navigate programme enhances student well-being and character development. Tutor groups and the six Houses provide ongoing pastoral care, with two adult Heads of House. Every teacher acts as a tutor, maintaining strong relationships with their tutor group and parents. Chapel services are held weekly in house groups, and family house services are conducted once a term. Student Futures experts help students navigate life beyond Saint Kentigern.	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.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) The Enhanced Learning Centre (ELC) liaises with classroom teachers to enhance learning for individual students. All students referred to the Enhanced Learning Centre are assessed to determine their learning needs and the assessment results are used to determine appropriate support in collaboration with parents and teachers. Gifted and Talented students are provided with opportunities to showcase their achievements and are celebrated, school-wide, during Gifted Awareness Week.	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.
English as an additional language	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.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing The Guidance Department includes the Head of Guidance, counselling psychologists and clinical psychologists, who are available to students during school hours. The Pastoral Care team comprises Deputy Principals, Heads of House, Head of International Students, Guidance Counsellors, the Chaplaincy team, Nurse, Head of Student Futures (Careers), Maori and Pasifika Director, and Director of Boarding. The Health Centre is staffed Monday to Friday from 8:00am–4:00pm. Weekly Chapel services are a central feature of school life, and Student Futures provides career guidance and information about future pathways with regular tertiary institution visits.	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.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding Saint Kentigern follows the Education (Pastoral Care of International Students) Code of Practice 2021 for international students. Emergency contacts for international students are provided by the Director of International Students. Bruce House is the boarding facility for students (years 9 and above), with the Director of Boarding acting in loco parentis. A College Code of Conduct for Students outlines expected behaviour and disciplinary procedures. The Health and Safety policy sets safeguarding and safety protocols, and incidents or hazards must be reported.	Safeguarding —
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview Set on 100 acres overlooking the Tamaki Estuary in Pakuranga, Saint Kentigern College provides expansive facilities designed to support holistic student development and educational outcomes. Learning spaces are light and spacious with technology and reliable connectivity. The campus features specialist spaces for arts, science, commerce, and design, supporting a range of creative and academic activities. The facilities include spaces for performance and movement across the campus.	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.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities The Sports Centre houses two versatile indoor courts that can be configured into a single 1,800 m² space with an electronic curtain. It includes five PE/Health teaching rooms, changing rooms, and offices for teaching and coaching staff. A strength and conditioning centre, a physiotherapy room, and a video-analysis presentation room support training and assessment. Beyond the Sports Centre, groomed fields, an artificial turf surface, tennis courts (one under cover), an indoor cricket facility, a competitive-length swimming pool, and an on-site rowing programme extend the sporting facilities.	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.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities The Jack Paine Centre (JPC) houses art rooms, food technology, hard materials, soft materials, and design classrooms. The College provides dedicated Commerce and Science spaces, and the Science block is fully equipped with labs supported by technicians. The Music Centre offers facilities for individual and group practice and includes a performance auditorium for choral and instrumental programmes. The dance studio is a hub of movement that can be divided into two teaching spaces and accommodates performances, with a cushioned floor in the downstairs activity room.	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.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities Rowing on Tamaki Estuary; music programs including choral and instrumental offerings housed in the Music Centre; a dance studio; a broad range of sports supported by the Sports Centre and outdoor facilities.	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
History	History Saint Kentigern College opened in 1953 on a rural site near Auckland, 16 kilometres from the centre of the city, near the Tamaki Estuary. The foundation Headmaster was Reverend Adam MacFarlan, appointed in 1952 to lead the College in the Presbyterian tradition. Bruce House opened in 1954 to house boarders, with 103 boarders by 1956, and Elliot Hall was completed in 1958 as an Assembly Hall and Gym. In 1996 the Trust Deed was amended to admit girls, and the first girls joined in 2003, introducing a parallel education model with single-gender classrooms and shared opportunities. Governance has evolved through a sequence of leaders and the Saint Kentigern Trust; Warren Peat served as Executive Head from 2001, and in 2023 Damon Emtage became College Principal with Dr Kevin Morris as Executive Trustee since 2022, and the College is authorised to teach the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. Source: College History	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.
Community	Community The College community is anchored in faith, with Christian Education, weekly chapel services and a focus on service to others. Termly House Chapels bring families together, reinforcing shared Christian values within the community. The community is grounded in values of respect, integrity, service, excellence and love that shape student character. Source: College page (Why Saint Kentigern College)	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.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association The Parents and Friends Associations of each Saint Kentigern school play a vital role in building a sense of community and supporting school activities and initiatives. Membership consists of dedicated volunteers, with an annual AGM in March and multiple opportunities to contribute. Each of the three school associations meets about eight times per year to plan activities, with updates from senior staff and a Trust Board delegate. The College Association volunteers and raises funds, operates Kents Café for Middle School and Saints Café for Senior School, and organises special fundraising events. The Girls' and Boys' School associations contribute through fundraising and events such as Fireworks Night, Celtic Day, and Flora MacDonald Day, celebrating Celtic heritage. Funds raised are used at the committees' discretion to provide equipment or facilities that enhance the students' educational experience. Source: Parents and Friends	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
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual Saint Kentigern College runs multiple academic competitions and intellectual enrichment programs. Three College teams qualified for the World Scholar's Cup Global Round, competing in team debates, collaborative writing, the Scholar's Challenge and the Scholar's Bowl. A student has represented New Zealand in Debating at national and international events, reflecting the College's strong debate program. The College also hosts the STEM Racing competition, showcasing student engineering and teamwork across Development and Professional classes.	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.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative The College provides extensive arts opportunities, led by seven music programmes: Orchestra, Strings, Rock, Chamber, Concert Band, Jazz, and Choral. Co-curricular music groups are available to all levels, with both auditioned and all-comer ensembles, fixed weekly rehearsals, and weekend workshops and performances. The performing arts program also includes Speech & Drama, theatre sports and school productions, and an Oral Assessment Programme with Speech New Zealand.	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.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language Language and cultural activities include competitive events in French, with Saint Kentigern students taking part in Alliance Française Auckland debates. The College hosts international engagement through visits such as Ōtaki Scholars, and participates in cross-cultural competitions such as the World Scholar's Cup, which involves students from many backgrounds. These programs foster cultural awareness and global collaboration.	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.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies Students engage in social and hobby activities through drama productions, music ensembles, and arts events. The College hosts school productions and participates in national arts competitions such as the Shakespeare Festival Nationals. The arts and culture programs also provide opportunities for creative writing, film projects and other peer-led activities.	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.
Community & service	Community & service Service and leadership are central to College life. College Prefects and leadership groups lead service initiatives and model Saint Kentigern values. Action and service activities are embedded in the Middle College program, including Mataatua Marae visits and Saint John First Aid training.	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.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Leadership is formalised through College Prefects, Head Prefects and a College Leadership Team. The Prefect Commissioning ceremony marks the official induction of student leaders, who guide peers and drive College life. Leadership development includes leadership camps and ongoing roles in student councils and committees.	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.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Wellbeing and physical development are supported by extensive sport and fitness programs, with over 25 regular sports codes and a dedicated development program. Mountain biking is offered as a co-curricular activity, and the College provides a state-of-the-art fitness centre with Athletic Development Coaches to support training and holistic wellness.	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
Language provision	Language provision Te Reo Maori, French, Japanese, Chinese, and Spanish are offered for language learning. In Years 7 and 8, two languages are introduced: a European language (French or Spanish) and an Asian language (Mandarin). In Year 7, these two languages are studied for a semester; in Year 8, one language is studied for the full year. Languages are available across senior years as semester-long and full-year courses, and Saint Kentigern College provides two qualification pathways: NCEA and the International Baccalaureate Diploma.	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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Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations —
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Application: To apply to Saint Kentigern College, complete the Online Application Form. Applications can be submitted up to three years before the intended entry year. A non-refundable application fee of $300 is charged per application. Attach a copy of the child's NZ Birth Certificate or NZ Passport or current passport, along with their latest school reports; if there have been any educational or medical assessments, provide the reports as well. 2. Request for documentation: Around 12 months ahead of entry year, the Admissions team will be in touch to request additional supporting documentation, such as school reports. 3. Interview: After the application and documents are received, prospective students and their caregiver may be invited to attend an enrolment interview in an informal, friendly setting. Interviews are held the year prior to entry. Not every student will be offered an interview and may be placed in a wait pool. Regular updates regarding available places in each year level will be provided. 4. Offer of Place: Following a successful interview, a written offer for the child's place will be issued. The offer is usually sent within a week of the interview. To secure the place, an Enrolment Agreement must be signed by both Parents or Caregivers and returned along with the non-refundable Acceptance Fee, Association Fee and Contribution Levy. 5. Acceptance: To complete enrolment, sign the Enrolment Agreement and return it with the required fees. Fees and levies are non-refundable.	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.
Scholarships	Scholarships Saint Kentigern College offers Scholarships to students entering Years 9-11. Applicants may apply for up to three scholarship categories: Academic, All-Round, Alumni, Boarding Bursary, Performing Arts, and Sport. Scholarships may cover up to 50% of tuition for most categories; Alumni up to 25%; Boarding Bursary up to 50% of boarding fees; Sport up to 50% (up to 90% in exceptional cases). Scholarships are awarded for the duration of the student's schooling. Applications open for 2028 Scholarships on 2 November 2026; 2027 Scholarships are closed. Timeline: 1) Apply online (no fee) with required documents; 2) Exams and auditions as required; 3) Interviews for shortlisted candidates; 4) Offer of scholarship; 5) Acceptance by returning Enrolment Agreement.	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.
Waitlist	Waitlist Due to high demand, some applicants may be placed in a wait pool while spaces become available. Regular updates regarding available places in each year level will be provided.	Waitlist —
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