The profile has been compiled by AI, based on the school’s website and other publicly available sources of information. Please report any incorrect or inaccurate information to: support@doris.school. If you are the school and would like to claim this profile please click here.
Samuel Marsden Collegiate School is a private Anglican girls school in Karori, Wellington, catering to ages 3 to 18, with Marsden Preschool co-educational. The campus sits on four hectares and features six tennis courts, an all-weather turf, a large auditorium and Te Manawa o te Kura, the hub with Learning Studios, iCentre and Waihanga makerspace. The school offers a bespoke curriculum alongside Cambridge IGCSE, with Years 7–10 following the New Zealand Curriculum and Year 11–13 guiding students toward NCEA, while providing pathways to NZ Scholarship and Cambridge extensions. In 2026 Cambridge International was reintroduced, expanding options for advanced study. Notable programmes include the Arrowsmith cognitive training program, a Performing Arts roster, and a broad Languages offering. A range of clubs, exchanges, service trips and leadership opportunities prepare students for senior study and life beyond school, in New Zealand and internationally. The community emphasises wellbeing and diversity within a faith-informed framework.
Gallery
The school has not added photos
The Essentials
Samuel Marsden Collegiate School has typical class sizes of 25, instruction in English.
Location
Karori, Wellington, New Zealand. Marsden Avenue, Karori, Wellington 6012. Private Bag 17000, Karori, Wellington 6147. There are several entrances to Marsden School in Karori; the main entrance is at the end of Marsden Avenue.
Stages
Preschool (co-educational) and Years 1–13 for girls. Primary (Years 1–6), Middle School (Years 7–10), and Senior School (Years 11–13).
Type
Private Anglican girls school; Marsden Preschool is co-educational.
Additional learning support
Specialist learning support and the Arrowsmith Program provide personalised support for students with additional learning needs; learning support is delivered in collaboration with classroom teachers, families and support staff; Guidance Counsellors support wellbeing and confidential individual counselling.
Country affiliation
New Zealand
Religious affiliation
Anglican
School day structure
The school day runs 8.25am–3.25pm; Period 1 begins at 8.35am.
Bus service
Metlink provides bus services to Marsden Karori; bus timetables are accessible via MyMarsden.
Diving Deeper
Uniform Requirement
NZ Uniforms supplies the Marsden uniform (168 Thorndon Quay, Wellington). Uniform must be worn correctly at all times; hair longer than shoulder-length must be tied back, and jewellery is limited to a small simple watch (ear studs only). Makeup and nail polish are not worn, black, closed-toe shoes are required, and a Marsden sunhat is compulsory outdoors for Preschool and Primary and recommended for Years 7–13.
Food Options
The Marsden Cafeteria is operated by Fine Cuisine and is open from 8:00am to 1:30pm during term time. The cafeteria accepts cash or EFTPOS, and Preschool and Primary families, as well as families of students in Years 7 and 8, can order lunches online via Ezlunch.
House System
Marsden has a six-house system: Baber, Hadfield-Beere, Jellicoe, Johnson, Richmond, Swainson-Riddiford. House colours are green, purple, yellow, orange, blue and red. The House System coordinates activities and fosters belonging across the Middle and Senior School, with House Captains and regular gatherings.
Governance and Ownership
Marsden is part of the Anglican Diocese of Wellington. It is governed by a Trust Board and a Board of Management. Marsden Collegiate School is a charitable trust.
Fees
Annual tuition at Samuel Marsden Collegiate School ranges from NZD 13,000 to NZD 51,000 for 2026/27.
Application and Enrolment Fees
- Application fee (non-refundable): NZD 150. - Domestic acceptance / enrolment fee (non-refundable): NZD 500 (not required for new Preschool enrolments). - International one-off enrolment fee (payable once application is accepted): NZD 700.
Tuition fees — Preschool and Years 1–13 (domestic students, amounts stated in NZD)
- Preschool (billed weekly; fees depend on enrolled hours): - 20–24 hours/week: NZD 250 per week (with 20 Hours ECE subsidy) or NZD 500 per week (without subsidy). - 25–34 hours/week: NZD 320 per week (with subsidy) or NZD 640 per week (without subsidy). - 35–50 hours/week: NZD 380 per week (with subsidy) or NZD 720 per week (without subsidy).
- Years 1–13 tuition (charged per term — school operates on a four-term year; annual amounts shown as four times the per-term figure): - Years 1–6: NZD 4,872 per term → NZD 19,488 per year. - Years 7–10: NZD 6,478 per term → NZD 25,912 per year. - Years 11–12: NZD 6,672 per term → NZD 26,688 per year. - Year 13: NZD 6,608 per term → NZD 26,432 per year.
Building & IT Levy
- Invoiced monthly over a 10-month period (January–October). Monthly amounts and annual equivalents (monthly × 10): - Years 1–10: NZD 350 per month → NZD 3,500 per year. - Years 11–12: NZD 310 per month → NZD 3,100 per year. - Year 13: NZD 346.40 per month → NZD 3,464 per year.
Activities, Materials & Licence Fee
- Invoiced monthly over a 10-month period (January–October). Monthly amounts and annual equivalents (monthly × 10): - Years 1–4: NZD 75 per month → NZD 750 per year. - Years 5–6: NZD 130 per month → NZD 1,300 per year (includes camp spread over two years). - Year 7: NZD 75 per month → NZD 750 per year (includes Year 7 Brand Programme). - Year 8: NZD 210 per month → NZD 2,100 per year (includes Year 8 camp). - Year 9: NZD 75 per month → NZD 750 per year. - Year 10: NZD 210 per month → NZD 2,100 per year (includes Year 10 camp). - Years 11–13: NZD 75 per month → NZD 750 per year. (Year 13 instalments cover compulsory leadership camp and other Year 13 events but exclude the Ball levy).
- Year 13 Ball levy: covers four Leavers' Ball tickets at NZD 250 each plus GST (15%). Parents will receive a refund if ticket costs are less than budgeted.
Additional mandatory and one-off charges
- Lifelong membership of the Marsden Old Girls' Association (one-off for all Year 1–13 students on enrolment): NZD 350. - Foundation donation included in first fees invoice (per family, per annum): NZD 150 (not pro-rated or refunded for partial year attendance). - Activities, Materials & Licence Fee does not cover all costs; additional items invoiced separately include sports fees, private music lessons, specialist subject costs, school trips, school photos, yearbook, extra stationery or workbooks, and other optional activities.
International student fees and related costs
- Annual international tuition (amounts in NZD, annual invoices are due in full prior to the school year start): - Years 1–6: NZD 39,000 per year. - Years 7–13: NZD 51,000 per year.
- Homestay and related international costs: - Homestay (NZ Homestay management included): NZD 480 per week. - Homestay matching fee (one-off): NZD 300. - Incidentals allowance (to cover camps, private lessons, excursions, ID card, extra workbooks etc.): NZD 3,000 (debited to account; unused portion rolls over or refunded when student leaves). - International student uniform estimate: NZD 1,650 (one-off / initial). - Insurance: comprehensive medical/travel insurance is required and must be purchased by parents; evidence must be provided before the student starts. - Short-term international programme (minimum 4 weeks) weekly tuition: Years 1–6 NZD 1,055 per week; Years 7–13 NZD 1,345 per week. Enrolment fee for short-term students: NZD 300.
- The school uses homestay placements for international students (arranged/managed through a homestay partner). On-site boarding accommodation is not used for international students; homestay is the standard option.
Billing schedule and payment terms
- Tuition fees for Years 1–13 are billed quarterly (per term). Building & IT Levy, Activities/Materials & Licence Fee and other disbursements are invoiced monthly (January–October). All invoices are payable on receipt. - Payment options explicitly stated: monthly automatic payment (direct debit) or payment annually in advance. A monthly payment plan for tuition fees can be arranged by contacting the Finance Team. - Early payment discount: a 2% discount is available for parents of Years 1–13 students who pay the annual fees in full by the early-payment date set by the Board (a 2026 example date shown was 31 January 2026).
Refund information (international students)
- Refund requests must be made in writing. The international students' refund policy follows NZQA guidelines and the NZ Code of Practice. Key points include: - One term's notice in writing is normally required; if notice is not given, one term's fees may be charged in lieu of notice. - If the application for refund is made before the course starts (including if a student visa is refused), fees are refundable in full less an administration fee. - If the application is made after the course start but before the midpoint of the course, refunds are made less the administration fee and reasonable costs already incurred by the school (tuition, contracted services, specialist fees, insurance, homestay costs already paid, etc.). - If the application is made after the midpoint of the course, no refund is usually given except in exceptional or compassionate circumstances. - Homestay-specific rules: unused homestay fees are refundable if two weeks' notice is given; otherwise two weeks' homestay fees may be deducted.
Other practical notes on fees and charges
- Sibling discount for domestic Years 1–13 only: a 20% discount on tuition fees is available for the third and youngest child when all are current students (does not apply to Preschool or international students). - Additional optional services (private music tuition, extra tuition, excursions, specialist subject costs, sport or performance fees) are charged separately and will appear as disbursements on your account. For international students, incidentals are debited to the account and any unused portion is refunded when the student leaves.
Contacts for fee arrangements and payment queries
- Finance enquiries and arrangements for payment plans are handled by the school Finance Team; a dedicated contact for confidential fee discussions (Business Director) is provided. Payment queries and to request a payment plan should be directed to the school's finance contacts.
Academics
Samuel Marsden Collegiate School teaches Bespoke Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE for students aged 3 to 18.
Curriculum
The school follows the New Zealand Curriculum in Years 7–10, offering English, Mathematics, Science, Social Sciences, Languages, Health and Physical Education, Religious Education, the Arts and Technology. The curriculum places a strong emphasis on literacy, numeracy, critical thinking, creativity, collaboration and problem-solving, with personalised support and extension. In Year 10, Literacy and Numeracy co-requisites for NCEA are completed, and selected Year 10 students may undertake an Extended Mathematics pathway that leads to Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics in Year 11. In the Senior School (Years 11–13), the primary qualification is NCEA, with pathways to New Zealand Scholarship and Cambridge International extensions alongside NCEA. Cambridge International was reintroduced in 2026, creating opportunities for advanced mathematics and other subjects. Marsden prepares students for senior study and life beyond school, with graduates going on to universities in New Zealand, Australia, the United Kingdom, the United States, Europe and Asia.
Exam Results
Marsden students consistently achieve outstanding NCEA results in the Senior School. A high proportion of leavers are awarded tertiary scholarships, and in 2025 Marsden students were awarded 13 NZQA Scholarships. Tertiary scholarships and NZ Scholarship-based achievements are highlighted as key outcomes of Marsden's academic program.
Higher Education Progression
Marsden graduates study at universities in New Zealand, Australia, the United Kingdom, the United States, Europe and Asia, reflecting the school's prep for tertiary study and life beyond school.
Gifted and Talented
New Zealand Scholarship is offered and integral to Marsden's academic culture, with structured preparation across subjects. The school offers an Extension and International Pathways programme, including Cambridge International extensions alongside NCEA, and an Extended Mathematics pathway to Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics in Year 11. In addition, NZQA Scholarships are awarded to Marsden students (13 in 2025).
Wellbeing
Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
Marsden provides a holistic hauora/wellbeing programme integrated into daily life. Awhi is Marsden's structured wellbeing education programme, embedded in the timetable to teach emotional literacy, healthy relationships, personal responsibility, resilience and decision-making. The Wellbeing Framework has four tiers: Tier 1 – School-Wide Pastoral Care; Tier 2 – Awhi; Tier 3 – Lunchtime Wellbeing Programmes; Tier 4 – Individual Counselling. A network of adults including Deans, form teachers, classroom teachers, the School Nurse, the Chaplain and Guidance Counsellors support wellbeing, guidance, care and early intervention so students feel safe and supported. Wellbeing is designed to be proactive and integrated as part of the educational journey.
Special Educational Needs (SEN)
Learning support and personalised learning programmes are available for students with identified and specific learning needs. Learning support and personalised learning programmes are provided for students with identified needs. The Arrowsmith Program is offered as a cognitive training programme to assist learners with learning differences and to support cognitive development.
English as an Additional Language (EAL)
English language support is available for international students through ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages). English proficiency is not mandatory for admission, but a basic level of English helps students settle in; a tailored ESOL programme supports those with limited English. Additional English language support is included in the timetable for international students.
Mental Wellbeing
Mental wellbeing is supported through Marsden's hauora/wellbeing approach. The school is grounded in Te Whare Tapa Whā and delivers wellbeing education across four tiers, including school-wide pastoral care, Awhi wellbeing education, Lunchtime Wellbeing Programmes and individual counselling. The wellbeing team comprises Deans, form tutors, classroom teachers, the School Nurse, the Chaplain and Guidance Counsellors, who work together to provide guidance, care and targeted support. Wellbeing is an integrated, proactive feature of school life designed to enhance learning and personal development.
Safeguarding
Marsden is a signatory to the Education (Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Learners) Code of Practice 2021, reflecting a formal commitment to safeguarding international learners. International students receive pastoral care from a dedicated team and meet fortnightly with the Dean of International Students to assist integration and learning. A Bullying and Harassment Policy (2023) sets out prevention, reporting, investigation and remedial processes to maintain a safe environment. If concerns arise, students are encouraged to raise them with the Director of International Students or through established complaints procedures.
Parent Experience
History
Samuel Marsden Collegiate School has educated girls since 1878. It began as Fitzherbert Terrace School, founded by Mrs Mary Ann Swainson, and in 1920 was purchased by the Anglican Diocese of Wellington, moved to Karori and renamed after the first Anglican missionary to New Zealand. It is an Anglican school with its own chapel, welcoming pupils of diverse religious beliefs and celebrating tolerance and diversity. In 2005 the Marsden Trust Board bought Whitby Independent College, founding Marsden Whitby, which in 2019 became Whitby Collegiate under the Fiso Group. The Board of Management has a Development Programme formed in consultation with the wider Marsden Community.
Community
The Marsden Community is a warm, welcoming environment with a culture of care and a sense of whānau. It receives enthusiastic support from parents, past parents, staff, the local community and alumnae in coaching sport teams, sponsorships, mentoring, speaking, helping with productions and events, and volunteering. The Marsden Foundation is the first exciting step toward the 150th anniversary. The Old Girls' Association is an enthusiastic and active group, and major events include Productions, Musical Concerts, and Old Girls' Day.
Facilities
Facilities Overview
The school sits on four hectares of park-like grounds in Karori, Wellington, providing space for sporting and recreational activities. It has six tennis courts, large playing fields including an all-weather multi-sport turf, and an adventure playground for younger children. Te Manawa o te Kura is the heart of the campus, featuring Learning Studios, a foyer and the iCentre. It also houses specialist teaching spaces, science and technology laboratories, art rooms, food and design technology rooms and the Waihanga makerspace. Senior students enjoy their own common room, and the campus includes a large auditorium for assemblies, music and drama productions.
Sports Facilities
Six tennis courts and large playing fields, including an all-weather multi-sport turf, support outdoor sports. A gymnasium provides indoor sport space. A dance studio on campus accommodates movement-based activities. Netball and tennis courts and other outdoor spaces are part of the campus facilities.
Academic Facilities
The central hub is Te Manawa o te Kura, the heart of the campus, featuring Learning Studios, a foyer and the iCentre. It also houses specialist teaching spaces, science and technology laboratories, art rooms, food and design technology rooms and the Waihanga makerspace. Senior students have their own common room. The facilities support a wide range of subjects across the junior and senior years.
Extra Curricular Facilities
The auditorium is a large tiered venue for assemblies, music and drama activities and productions. The Baber Chapel provides Anglican worship on campus. These spaces support a vibrant program of performances and events.
Extra-Curricular Activities
Academic & Intellectual
Arrowsmith Program® is a cognitive training program designed to strengthen brain pathways to support learning. Marsden has run the program since 2014, delivered by three specialist teachers trained in Canada and Brisbane. Students can access between one and four Arrowsmith exercises per week, with some 8:00 am sessions to reduce impact on curriculum subjects. The program is designed to help learners with learning differences and those seeking cognitive enhancement.
Arts & Creative
Music is a vibrant part of Marsden life, with a programme from Primary through Year 13 led by specialist teachers. There are ensembles and co-curricular opportunities including Ad Summa, Altissime, The Larks, Kapa Haka, School Orchestra and Handbells, along with biennial school productions. Primary students participate in Music Club, Junior Choir and Chapel Choir, and there are frequent opportunities to perform at school services and in the wider community. The Swainson Memorial Music Competition and itinerant recitals provide additional performance outlets and leadership development.
Cultural & Language
Marsden runs Debating with Premier A and Premier B teams, Junior Premier and Junior Certificate teams, and Year 7–8 in-school debate; the Stockley Cup Public Speaking Competition is available. The school participates in the Sheilah Winn Shakespeare Festival, and drama is supported by external tutors. Kapa Haka is offered as part of the cultural programme, and a French cultural experience is provided through field trips to local French restaurants. Model UN events and international exchanges, including exchanges to Shanghai and Japan, broaden cross-cultural understanding.
Social & Hobbies
Marsden offers a range of social and hobby activities through its arts and music programs. In addition to ensembles, students can join Guitar Group, Ukuladies and various choir groups, School Orchestra and handbell groups with lunchtime or after-school rehearsals. School productions, dance and drama opportunities provide further creative outlets and social experiences. These activities foster friendship, teamwork and personal growth beyond the classroom.
Community & Service
Marsden students contribute to the wider community through performances and service initiatives. Smaller ensembles and soloists regularly share music with the local community, including residents of Huntleigh Retirement Village and Metlifecare Karori. Education Outside the Classroom includes Duke of Edinburgh's Hillary Award, community projects and service initiatives, and international exchanges and service trips (e.g., Fiji and Samoa), broadening students' worldviews. Through these opportunities, students build social responsibility and community connections beyond school.
Leadership & Professional
Marsden runs a formal student leadership structure with a Head Girl and Deputy Head Girl and a Head Students' Committee that includes roles such as Head of Service, Sports Captain and Head of Performing Arts. Leadership is handed over at an annual Leadership Handover Assembly, marking the start of the new year. The school also celebrates leadership through annual announcements of student leaders and induction processes. In addition, schemes like the Duke of Edinburgh's Hillary Award support leadership and professional skills development.
Lifestyle & Wellbeing
Marsden's wellbeing programme is built on Te Whare Tapa Whā, with wellbeing embedded across the school. Awhi is the structured wellbeing education program delivered through the timetable to teach emotional literacy, relationships, resilience and decision-making. Lunchtime Wellbeing Programmes, led by school counsellors, offer six-week group sessions, and there is access to the school nurse and Chaplain. A four-tier framework provides proactive pastoral care, targeted support and confidential counselling to support students' academic and personal development.
Languages
Language Provision
Te Reo Māori, Mandarin Chinese and French are offered in Years 7–8 as taster courses. Language learning is a requirement until the end of Year 9. Many students continue language study into their senior years.
Admissions
Admissions
1) Apply online: Applications are open year round. Start the process by completing the online Application form. Marsden will contact applicants to arrange an interview with either the Principal or Head of Primary.
2) Interview: The interview is conducted with the Principal or Head of Primary. The interview assesses fit for enrolment. After the interview, and subject to a space being available, you will be required to complete our full enrolment documentation.
3) Space availability and enrolment documentation: If space is available, complete the full enrolment documentation. The enrolment process proceeds once space is confirmed.
4) Timeline and visits: For entry into the next calendar year, apply by the end of June. You can also apply now if joining beyond next year. Tours and time in class can be arranged through the Enrolment Registrar to help you decide.
5) Open days and next steps: Marsden holds open events in March, May and August. Tours and personal class visits can be scheduled, and you may be invited to view the Prospectus and learn more about Marsden.
Scholarships
We offer a range of scholarships for new and current students. Categories include Primary Year 6; Years 7 and 9; Years 7–13 Māori & Pasifika; Year 10–13 Excellence in Sports; Senior School Years 11–13 (including Ad Summa/Letteri Family Scholarship); and Years 11–13 scholarships with no exam required in some cases. Scholarships for entry in 2028 open on 2 February 2027 and close on 13 May 2027, with the exam date on 22 May 2027; New Zealand domestic students are eligible for Marsden Scholarships. External scholarships include Māori Education Trust Scholarships (Y9-13 and other secondary awards). There is also Marsden Bursaries for families with financial need, though current availability may vary. Some scholarships require an exam, while others do not and may have alternative requirements (such as achievements in sport or performing arts). For details on each scholarship category and its requirements, refer to the Scholarships section of Marsden's enrolments materials.
School Events
The school has not added events
FAQs
Where is Samuel Marsden Collegiate School located and what is the main campus address?
The school is located in Karori, Wellington, New Zealand. The main entrance is at the end of Marsden Avenue, Karori, with Private Bag 17000, Karori Wellington 6147. Marsden operates from a four-hectare campus with multiple entrances to Marsden School in Karori.
What is the age range and how is the school structure organized?
The school serves students from age 3 to 18. Marsden Preschool is co-educational, while the main Marsden campus operates as a private Anglican girls school from Primary through Senior years, covering Preschool, Years 1–13.
What curriculum and pathways does Marsden offer across the years?
Marsden follows the New Zealand Curriculum in Years 7–10, with a Senior School focused on NCEA and pathways to New Zealand Scholarship and Cambridge International extensions. Cambridge International was reintroduced in 2026, creating opportunities for advanced studies, including an Extended Mathematics pathway to Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics in Year 11.
What is the admissions process for prospective families?
Applications are submitted online, followed by an interview with the Principal or Head of Primary. If space is available, families complete the full enrolment documentation, and tours or time in class can be arranged. Open days occur in March, May and August, and prospective families can arrange visits through the Enrolment Registrar.
Are scholarships available at Marsden, and when are entry scholarships offered for 2028?
Marsden offers a range of scholarships across different year groups, including Primary Year 6, Years 7 and 9, Māori & Pasifika, Excellence in Sports, and Senior School scholarships with various requirements. Scholarships for entry in 2028 open on 2 February 2027 and close on 13 May 2027, with the exam date on 22 May 2027; some scholarships do not require an exam.
What support is available for international applicants and students?
Marsden accepts international learners and provides pastoral care through a dedicated international team, with fortnightly meetings with the Dean of International Students to assist integration and learning. The school signs the Education (Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Learners) Code of Practice and offers ESOL support as part of language provisions.
What subjects and curriculum can students expect in Years 7–10 and in the Senior School?
In Years 7–10, subjects include English, Mathematics, Science, Social Sciences, Languages, Health and Physical Education, Religious Education, the Arts and Technology. Senior School follows NCEA with pathways to NZ Scholarship and Cambridge International extensions, plus access to an Extended Mathematics pathway and Cambridge IGCSE in some cases.
How does Marsden prepare students for higher education and future study?
Marsden emphasizes preparation for tertiary study with NZ Scholarship and Cambridge International extensions, and a track record of graduates attending universities in New Zealand, Australia, the United Kingdom, the United States and beyond. In 2025, Marsden had 13 NZQA Scholarships awarded to departing students.
Are there gifted and talented programs or extension opportunities beyond the standard curriculum?
Yes, Marsden offers NZ Scholarship as well as Cambridge International extensions alongside NCEA, and an Extended Mathematics pathway to Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics in Year 11. The school also runs the Arrowsmith Program to support cognitive development and learning differences.
What sports and academic facilities are available on campus?
The campus features six tennis courts, large playing fields with an all-weather multi-sport turf, a gymnasium and a dance studio. Te Manawa o te Kura, the central hub, houses Learning Studios, the iCentre, science and technology labs, art rooms, design and technology spaces and the Waihanga makerspace.
What additional spaces support student life outside classrooms?
Senior students have their own common room, and the campus hosts a large auditorium for assemblies, music and drama. The Baber Chapel offers Anglican worship on campus, and the auditorium and other spaces host performances and events.
What kinds of extracurricular activities and clubs are available?
Marsden offers extensive arts and music programs, including ensembles, School Orchestra, Handbells, Kapa Haka, and biennial productions. Debating, Premier and Junior teams, Model UN, and field trips complement drama and performance, with leadership opportunities through student committees.
Could you tell me about the Arrowsmith Program and how it helps students?
The Arrowsmith Program is a cognitive training program designed to strengthen brain pathways to support learning. Students can access between one and four exercises per week, with some sessions offered at 8:00 am to fit with the timetable, helping learners with difficulties and those seeking cognitive development.
What leadership and student governance opportunities exist at Marsden?
Marsden runs a formal student leadership structure including a Head Girl, Deputy Head Girl and a Head Students' Committee with roles such as Head of Service, Sports Captain and Head of Performing Arts. Leadership is handed over at an annual Leadership Handover, and the school supports leadership through initiatives like the Duke of Edinburgh's Hillary Award.
How is wellbeing and mental health supported at Marsden?
Wellbeing is embedded in Te Whare Tapa Whā and uses the Awhi structured wellbeing education program delivered through the timetable. There is a four-tier pastoral care framework with access to counsellors, the school nurse and a Chaplain, along with lunchtime wellbeing programs and targeted support.
What learning support and language assistance are available for students?
Learning support and personalised learning programs are available for students with identified needs, including the Arrowsmith Program. ESOL support is provided for international students, and English language support is included in the timetable to help with settlement and progression.
How does Marsden safeguard international students and promote a safe environment?
Marsden is a signatory to the Education (Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Learners) Code of Practice and maintains a safeguarding policy for bullying and harassment. International students have access to a dedicated team and can raise concerns with the Director of International Students or through established procedures.
What is the school culture like and what religious affiliation does Marsden have?
Marsden is an Anglican school with its own chapel, welcoming pupils of diverse religious beliefs and promoting tolerance and diversity. The school sits within the Anglican Diocese of Wellington and emphasizes a caring, whānau-like community.
What is the uniform policy and dress code for Marsden students?
The Marsden uniform is supplied by NZ Uniforms and must be worn correctly at all times. Hair longer than shoulder length should be tied back, jewellery is limited to a small simple watch (ear studs only), makeup and nail polish are not worn, black closed-toe shoes are required, and a Marsden sunhat is compulsory outdoors for Preschool and Primary, and recommended for Years 7–13.
How is the Marsden house system organized and what are the house names?
Marsden has a six-house system: Baber, Hadfield-Beere, Jellicoe, Johnson, Richmond and Swainson-Riddiford. House colours are green, purple, yellow, orange, blue and red, and the House System coordinates activities and fosters belonging across the Middle and Senior School with House Captains and regular gatherings.
