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Springbank School

New Zealand, Kerikeri

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English
Fees NZ$14,640 - 16,400
Ages 0 - 18 years
Pupil numbers 200
Type Co-educational
Opened 1996
Bus Service No
Academic offering
Curriculum Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge International AS Levels, Cambridge A Levels
Taught languages French, German, Japanese, Spanish, Afrikaans
Typical class size 20
Strengths Sport, Outdoor Education, Languages
Clubs Academic and Intellectual, Arts and Creative, Social and Hobbies
Stages Infant/Toddler Care, Preschool, Early Years, Primary School, Middle School, Secondary School, Senior Secondary School
Introduction

Springbank School is an independent, co-educational school serving ages 0 to 18 at 78 Waimate North Road, Kerikeri, in New Zealand's Bay of Islands. It provides the Cambridge Assessment International Education curriculum across Junior, Middle and Senior School, offering Cambridge Primary (Year 6 checkpoints), Cambridge Secondary 1, IGCSE (Year 10-11), AS Levels (Year 12) and A Levels (Year 13) as an alternative to the New Zealand national curriculum. Second languages such as French, German, Japanese and Spanish can be arranged through tutors. Founded in 1996 by Sophia and Bob Warren, the school sits on 14 hectares with purpose-built facilities including comfortable classrooms, a library, a science laboratory, an art room, a study area and IT resources, plus a gym with a rock wall, artificial turf, sports fields and a long fitness track. Extra-curriculars include Chess Club, Kerikeri Theatre Company and Photography; activities span football, rugby, sailing, surfing and cross-country regularly.

78 Waimate North Road, Kerikeri 0293, New Zealand

The Essentials

Springbank School has 200 pupils, typical class sizes of 20, instruction in English.

Location

78 Waimate North Road, Kerikeri, Northland, New Zealand 0293. The campus sits on 14 hectares of rural land in Kerikeri, away from the big cities.

Stages

Preschool; Headstart; Junior School (Year 1–6); Middle School (Year 7–9); Senior School (Year 10–13).

Type

Independent, co-educational private school.

Additional learning support

Health & wellbeing; Counselling; Teacher Support; Study Skills/Homework; Careers Advice.

Country affiliation

New Zealand

Bus service

Bay of Islands school buses; Springbank North Van for northern Kerikeri areas (as far as Coopers Beach); Senior students may drive to school with parental permission. Bus timetables and fees are via Clark's Coachlines; ferry information via Northland Ferries Bay of Islands service.
Diving Deeper

Boarding Arrangements

For international students, accommodation is provided through approved homestay families with full accommodation and board. The international student director oversees pastoral care and enquiries. Springbank is a signatory to the New Zealand Code of Practice for the Pastoral Care of International Students.

Uniform Requirement

There is no set uniform at Springbank. Students dress neatly and presentably; caps or hats are worn outdoors in summer; there is a dress code for formal occasions (dark navy or black dress pants/skirt, white shirt, official polo shirt, school blazer and tie). The official sports uniform must be worn when representing the school for inter-school activities and sports events.

Food Options

The Springbank School cafe is not currently operating with a full-time provider. Food and drinks are sold by student groups to raise funds for trips and activities, including BBQ sausages, baking, nachos and smoothies. Sushi Thursdays offer sushi from Sushi Gallery Kerikeri; orders are placed online and drinks are not included.

House System

Students are assigned to a House Group on joining Springbank. There are four House Groups: Dolphins, Orcas, Sharks and Stingrays, each with its own colour and chants. House Groups accumulate points toward the top house at events such as Cross Country and Athletics Day, fostering belonging and cross-year connections.
Fees

Annual tuition at Springbank School ranges from NZD 14,640 to NZD 16,400 for 2026/27.

Application & enrolment fees
- A non-refundable deposit equal to one term's tuition is payable when a student is accepted; this deposit is credited to the student's first term.
- For international students an administration fee is charged depending on the enrolment duration: $1,100 (for 1 or 2 terms), $1,350 (for 3 terms), and $1,600 (for 4 terms).

Tuition fees — domestic students (by school section)
- Junior School (Year 1–6): NZD 14,640 per year. Per term amount (calculated as annual ÷ 4): NZD 3,660 per term.
- Middle School (Year 7–9): NZD 15,560 per year. Per term amount (calculated as annual ÷ 4): NZD 3,890 per term.
- Senior School (Year 10–13): NZD 16,400 per year. Per term amount (calculated as annual ÷ 4): NZD 4,100 per term.

Note: the per-term figures above are calculated by dividing the published annual tuition by four terms; term lengths are set by the school calendar.

Tuition & charges — international students (2026 and 2027 figures where shown)
- Tuition charged by duration (total tuition for the stated duration):
- 1 Term: NZD 7,620 (2026). Admin fee: NZD 1,100.
- 2 Terms: NZD 13,080 (2026). Admin fee: NZD 1,100.
- 3 Terms: NZD 18,330 (2026). Admin fee: NZD 1,350.
- 4 Terms: NZD 23,480 (2026). Admin fee: NZD 1,600.
- Short-stay weekly rates (2026): 3 weeks at NZD 930/week; 4 weeks at NZD 890/week; 5 weeks at NZD 860/week; 6 weeks at NZD 830/week. Corresponding weekly rates for 2027 are also published. Homestay to family: NZD 340 per week (2026).
- Textbooks are included in international tuition provided books are returned in good condition; a replacement fee applies for lost/damaged items. Basic stationery is provided; Middle and Senior students require a laptop and a scientific calculator.

Other recurring or optional fees
- Activity fees for international students (term-based): Term 1 NZD 400; Term 2 NZD 300; Term 3 NZD 200; Term 4 NZD 400. These cover field trips, levies and extra activities.
- Optional Outdoor Adventure course (for Year 10–13): NZD 450 per term (where taken).
- If sitting Cambridge (CIE) exams, exam fees are approximately NZD 200 per subject.
- Domestic students may incur additional charges for stationery, field trips, recreational/cultural/sporting activities and examination entry fees; these additional costs are charged as required for each student. A springbank scholar rebate is applied for long-serving families as published.
- House t-shirt (optional purchase): NZD 25.00.

Billing schedule & payment terms
- A deposit equal to one term's tuition is payable on acceptance and is credited to the first term's account.
- Preschool fees are invoiced quarterly in advance.
- Headstart tuition is free; optional term charges for activities are set at the start of each term and are due on the first day of the term.
- For international bookings, tuition is listed by the chosen enrolment duration (term or weeks) and administration/homestay fees apply as shown in the international schedule.

Boarding / homestay
- The school does not operate on-campus boarding. Homestay accommodation is arranged for international students; the published homestay rate to host family is NZD 340 per week (2026).

Refund information
- The enrolment deposit equal to one term's tuition is non-refundable. No additional published general refund policy for term tuition or other fees is shown on the publicly available fee pages.

Fee payment options
- Specific payment methods (for example bank transfer, credit card, direct debit) are not listed on the fee pages. For exact payment options and instructions, contact the school's reception by phone or email: +64 9 407 5236, reception@springbank.school.nz.

Practical notes for parents
- Annual domestic tuition figures are presented above with per-term amounts calculated by dividing the published annual tuition by four terms; actual invoicing and timing follow the school's term calendar.
- Additional individual costs (specialist trips, subject-specific materials, extra-curricular charges and optional courses) are charged as required and will be advised for each student.
Academics

Springbank School teaches Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge International AS Levels, Cambridge A Levels for students aged 0 to 18.

Curriculum

Springbank teaches the Cambridge Assessment International Education curriculum across all levels as an alternative to New Zealand's national curriculum. Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) is a division of the University of Cambridge in England; Cambridge qualifications are globally recognised and accepted by universities. In Junior School, Year 6 Cambridge Primary Checkpoint Examinations in English, mathematics and science are externally marked by Cambridge. In Middle School, Years 7-9 students sit the Cambridge Secondary 1 Checkpoint at the end of Year 9. In Senior School (Years 10-13), the Cambridge pathway begins with a two-year IGCSE course (Year 10-11) followed by AS Levels in Year 12 and A Levels in Year 13; IGCSE typically requires 7-8 subjects and A Levels 3-4 per year. Second languages such as French, German, Japanese, and Spanish can be available through arranged tutors.

Student Teacher Ratio

Senior School has smaller class sizes and an individualised learning focus.

Exam Results

Year 6 Cambridge Primary Checkpoint Examinations in English, mathematics and science are externally marked by Cambridge International. The majority of Year 6 students score well above the international average. Middle School pass rates for Cambridge Secondary 1 Checkpoint examinations (End of Year 9) are consistently high, with pass rates averaging well over 90%. In the Senior School, the Cambridge International Examinations begin at Year 10 with a two-year IGCSE course, externally examined at the end of Year 11.

Higher Education Progression

After completing IGCSE, students progress to A Levels in Years 12 and 13, which allows entry to university. Cambridge qualifications are recognised and accepted by universities around the world.

Gifted and Talented

Several senior students have received Cambridge International Top in New Zealand awards for subjects including ICT (computing), English Language, German, and French. Outstanding Cambridge Learner Awards recognise exceptional Cambridge examination achievement, with awards such as Top in New Zealand, Top in the World, Best Across and High Achievement.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

The school supports social and emotional development through a positive social environment and caring relationships. Each student is recognised as an individual with unique talents. The school emphasises life-long personal values that equip students to build and maintain good relationships. A balanced education includes physical fitness, high self-esteem, and an agile mind. Health and Wellbeing lessons integrate Character Strengths and teach strategies to manage social and emotional situations; speakers are invited to discuss wellbeing topics such as emotional resilience, compassion, and how to deal with anxiety and depression.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

Support for students with learning needs includes ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages), peer tutoring, and extra one-on-one specialist subject tuition. The school provides access to special assessment conditions for exams, including reader/writer support and computer use.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

English for speakers of other languages (ESOL) is provided to support students learning English.

Mental Wellbeing

Wellbeing is supported through Health & Wellbeing classes that integrate Character Strengths and teach strategies to manage social and emotional situations. The school culture fosters social and emotional wellbeing through warm, caring relationships. Counselling services are available to assist students in developing strategies to improve wellbeing and cope with anxiety and depression.

Safeguarding

Staff are proactive in ensuring all students are safe in physical, emotional, and mental aspects of their lives. Counselling services are available to support safeguarding and wellbeing.
Parent Experience

History

Springbank School was founded in 1996 by Sophia and Bob Warren who aimed to offer children across Northland the highest quality learning experience focused on success. Over 26 years, Springbank has attracted students from all walks of life who share the goal of growing personal capability in a fun, social, and supportive atmosphere. Sustained growth and reinvestment have enabled facilities such as an artificial turf, gymnasium, modern information technology resources, specialised science and art spaces, and a multi-use fitness trail. In 2006 Springbank Preschool was established to cater for growing demand for early childhood services, and in 2011 Springbank Headstart was established as a unique transition-to-school program for five-year-olds. Springbank's past performance shows that despite its smaller roll and Far North location, students have achieved national recognition including high scores on aptitude exams, Young Sports Person of the Year, track and field medals, and Young Enterprise competition winners.

Community

Our students feel a strong bond with their community; Springbank School plays an active role in the Bay of Islands community and supports many organisations. Students help others, volunteer for community events, and donate goods such as at the annual Christmas Gift-Giving Day. We partner with organisations including the Puketi Forest Trust, Historic Places Trust, Kerikeri Scout Den, and Bay of Islands Hospital. We are always looking for new ways to inspire our students through giving back and invite community groups to contact reception@springbank.nz.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

Friends of Springbank is a parent-led group that focuses on projects and initiatives that improve the school and strengthen its community. It is a registered charity that regularly organises fundraising projects, community events and parent evenings, with the aim of enhancing the education of every Springbank pupil by providing additional education opportunities such as sponsoring school teams, subsidising special trips, organising educational seminars, catering for students and parents at special events, and funding extra-curricular skills workshops. Friends of Springbank actively manages or assists with events including school discos, the Springbank Fireworks Extravaganza, talent shows, the Junior Duathlon, visiting shows and speakers, cross country, school productions, and prize giving. Nanogirl Science Show and AIMS Games sponsorship are among its activities.
Facilities

Facilities Overview

Springbank School is an independent co-educational school for Year 1-13. It is located on 14 hectares of rural property in the Bay of Islands, New Zealand. The environment is well-resourced, with purpose-built facilities to support learning and outdoor exploration. There are purpose-built comfortable classrooms, a senior study room, a library, modern information technology resources, a science laboratory, and an art room. The campus includes a full-size gymnasium with a rock wall, play areas for younger students, an artificial turf, sports fields, and a lengthy fitness track. A trail around the property is used by cross country runners, cyclists and orienteering enthusiasts, and all students walk, jog or run regularly for fitness.

Sports Facilities

The school has a full-size gymnasium with a rock wall. It features an artificial turf and multiple sports fields. A lengthy fitness track runs across the property for conditioning. The cross country trail is used by runners, cyclists, and orienteering enthusiasts.

Academic Facilities

The school has purpose-built comfortable classrooms and a senior study room. It includes a library and modern information technology resources. It has a science laboratory and an art room. These facilities support a broad curriculum across Year 1-13 and provide spaces for independent study and collaborative learning.

Extra Curricular Facilities

The school provides a range of extra-curricular opportunities for students. A document lists contact information for each activity/club/association in the wider area, including clubs in music, arts, theatre and sports. Examples include Chess Club, Dance, Girls Brigade, Kerikeri Theatre Company, Photography, Scouts, and various music activities. Athletics and team sports such as badminton, hockey, netball, rugby, cricket, football, sailing, and surfing are included; surfing is part of Outdoor Education for Years 10–13.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual

Chess Club is offered. All skill levels and ages are welcome. The school notes that there are many clubs and associations in the surrounding Far North district, providing opportunities beyond what is offered directly. A document with contact information for each activity/club/association is maintained.

Arts & Creative

Kerikeri Theatre Company is offered. Photography is listed as an activity with local photographers. Music lessons cover Drums, Piano, Guitar, Bass, and Ukulele; Ruth Simpson's Music School offers lessons at Springbank, and Kerikeri School of Music provides lessons at the school, including Violin. Dance classes include Ballet, Hip Hop, and Jazz.

Social & Hobbies

Chess Club, Girls Brigade, Kerikeri Theatre Company, and SCOUTS are available social and hobby activities. Photography and various music-related activities are also listed as options. Surfing is part of Outdoor Education for Years 10–13, and Volleyball Club meets after school on Tuesday. Tennis & Pickleball Club, Netball, Rugby, Hockey, and other sports have school-related offerings.

Community & Service

Friends Of Springbank is a community group connected to the school. Fireworks Extravaganza is a school-hosted event. Chosen Charity is a community initiative.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing

Surfing is part of Outdoor Education for Years 10–13. Swimming lessons are offered, with school swim lessons for Headstart to Year 6 in Term Four and weekly lessons for Preschool. Volleyball Club plays after school on Tuesdays. A range of team sports, including Netball, Rugby, Hockey, Tennis, and Pickleball, supports fitness and wellbeing.
Languages

Language Provision

ESOL support is available to help international students learn English; students can be fully integrated into classes when their English meets the required standard. Springbank follows the International Cambridge Curriculum. The international student director oversees pastoral care for international students and coordinates homestay arrangements and related support.
Admissions

Admissions

Enrolment process: To apply for enrolment to Springbank School, click the Apply Now button. You can save the online application and return to it later. For international enrolment, refer to the International Student Policies and Guidelines.

Scholarships

Springbank Scholar Rebate: A two-tier rebate for students who have been at Springbank School for more than 3 full calendar years. The rebate is $300 per year for more than 3 years and $600 per year for more than 6 years.
School Events
The school has not added events