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Takapuna Normal Intermediate School

New Zealand, Auckland

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English
Fees NZ$15,640
Ages 10 - 13 years
Type Co-educational
Bus Service No
Academic offering
Curriculum IB (PYP)
Strengths STEM, Visual and Creative Arts, Languages
Clubs Arts and Creative, Cultural and Language, Social and Hobbies
Stages Middle School
Introduction

Takapuna Normal Intermediate School (TNIS) welcomes families seeking a New Zealand intermediate experience with an International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme alignment. Located at 26 Northcote Road, Takapuna, Auckland, TNIS serves learners aged 10 to 13 and follows the New Zealand Curriculum integrated with the IB PYP. The school uses an interdisciplinary, inquiry-led approach spanning English, Mathematics, Science, Te Reo Māori, Social Sciences, Arts, Technology, Health and Physical Education, and Languages. Te Reo Māori lessons occur weekly, with ongoing use of Māori language across classes. TNIS maintains its Normal School heritage through active partnerships with Initial Teacher Education providers; trainee teachers complete placements in classrooms each year. The campus features 24 classrooms plus six specialist rooms for Science, Music, Dance and Drama, Food Technology and Visual Art, a refurbished Desmond Withell Auditorium, a library, and a cafe. Extensive outdoor spaces, sport facilities, and a BYOD-enabled ICT environment support a broad programme.

26 Northcote Road, Takapuna, Auckland, New Zealand

The Essentials

Takapuna Normal Intermediate School has instruction in English.

Location
26 Northcote Road, Takapuna, Auckland 0622, New Zealand. The school is located at 26 Northcote Road in Takapuna. It provides a designated Pick Up/Drop Off Zone to manage student arrivals and departures. Parking is limited at the site with traffic arrangements to reduce congestion around the school.

Stages
Year 7–8

Type
Intermediate

Additional learning support
ESOL support for international students; MLS teacher; Literacy Support programme.

Country affiliation
New Zealand

School day structure
The school day begins at 8:45 a.m. The Pick Up/Drop Off Zone closes at 2:45 p.m. and reopens to cars at 3:20 p.m. The front car park is closed from 2:55 p.m. to 3:15 p.m. daily to enable learner egress.
Diving Deeper

Uniform Requirement
The school has a uniform that must be worn to and from school each day, including the TNIS jacket. Shoes must be plain black and sit below the ankle, with navy or black socks; no Crocs are allowed, and hair length should be tied up if shoulder-length. Students bring their PE uniform for PE, sandals are allowed (black; backstraps optional) and bucket hats are worn for sun safety in Term 1 and Term 4.

Governance and Ownership
The school is governed by a School Board of Trustees; it operates as a public intermediate school within New Zealand's education system.
Fees

Annual tuition at Takapuna Normal Intermediate School ranges from NZD 15,640 for 2026/27.

Application / Administration fees

- Administration (application) fee: NZD 1,000 (non‑refundable) per enrolment. No additional administration fee is charged for a subsequent year or an extension of the enrolment.
- Designated caregiver administration fee (when the student stays with an approved designated caregiver): NZD 345 (non‑refundable).

Tuition fees (by enrolment period and per term) — International students

- Full year (4 terms) tuition: NZD 15,640 (equivalent to NZD 3,910 per term).
- Three terms tuition: NZD 11,730 (NZD 3,910 per term based on the school's term tariff).
- Two terms tuition: NZD 7,820 (NZD 3,910 per term).
- One term tuition: NZD 3,910.

Note: The tuition amounts include the school education levy, basic stationery, school event buses, specified online learning programs and the Yearbook where these are listed as included. An offer of place is issued together with an invoice for the applicable tuition.

Billing schedule and payment terms

- An offer of place is issued and an invoice for tuition fees is raised; fees must be paid by the invoice due date to secure the place. The school issues a receipt when payment is received; that receipt is used together with the Offer of Place for immigration purposes where required.
- Re‑enrolment for the following year must be completed by 30 September of the current year for continuing international learners.

(Invoice issuance, payment-by-due-date requirement, receipt issuance and re‑enrolment deadline are part of the school's enrolment and invoicing procedures.)

Boarding / accommodation fees

- The school does not operate a boarding hostel. International students must either live with at least one parent in New Zealand or with an approved Designated Caregiver. The designated caregiver arrangement carries the non‑refundable administration/supervision fee of NZD 345.

Other costs and typical additional fees

- Designated caregiver administration/supervision fee: NZD 345 (non‑refundable).
- Education outside the classroom (EOTC) / camp: approximately NZD 200 (payable in NZD; actual cost may vary by activity).
- Uniform (approximate cost): NZD 330 (dependent on number and choice of items purchased).
- Extra‑curricular activity fees (estimate): NZD 200 (varies by activity — sports, music tuition, dance, etc.).
- Additional costs that may arise for particular students include specialist music tuition, some after‑school sports programme fees, specific trip or overnight camp charges, and any insurance purchased through the school if required.

Refund information (summary of key points)

- Refunds of international student fees are considered only on written request to the school and are processed under the school's refund policy. Requests must include student details, the circumstances, the amount requested and nominated bank account details for any eligible refund.
- The following fees are non‑refundable: the Administration (application) fee, the Designated Caregiver admin fee, and a specified withdrawal administration fee (NZD 1,000) where applicable. The school may retain a portion of unused tuition fees to cover costs already incurred or committed.
- If a student's visa application is declined, a refund of tuition fees is available less any non‑refundable administration fee, provided the school receives evidence of Immigration NZ's visa refusal.

(Refund requests must follow the formal refund policy and supply the bank account details for the recipient account.)

Fee payment options and how to pay school charges

- The school uses a parent payment system (myKindo) for many day‑to‑day payments such as lunches, sports, trips, fundraising and other school activity charges. myKindo supports multiple payment methods including credit/debit card (processed via Stripe), POLi, Online EFTPOS and bank transfer top‑ups/withdrawals, depending on the myKindo configuration the family uses.
- Tuition and international enrolment invoices are issued with payment instructions. Parents are required to pay tuition by the invoiced due date; the school issues official receipts when payment is received. For activity and school shop payments, use of myKindo is standard practice for families.

Brief practical notes for parents (fees only)

- All international fees and listed additional costs are charged in New Zealand dollars (NZD) and are GST‑inclusive where indicated.
- Where a student will not be living with a parent, the Designated Caregiver fee applies and school‑approved arrangements are required.

Important amounts (at a glance, NZD)

- Tuition (4 terms / full year): NZD 15,640 (NZD 3,910 per term).
- Tuition (1 term): NZD 3,910.
- Administration (application) fee: NZD 1,000 (non‑refundable).
- Withdrawal administration fee (where applied): NZD 1,000 (non‑refundable).
- Designated caregiver admin fee: NZD 345 (non‑refundable).
- Typical EOTC / camp: ~NZD 200.
- Typical uniform purchase: ~NZD 330.
- Typical extra‑curricular estimate: ~NZD 200.
Academics

Takapuna Normal Intermediate School teaches IB (PYP) for students aged 10 to 13.

Curriculum
TNIS teaches the New Zealand Curriculum, supported by the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme. It uses an interdisciplinary, integrated approach to learning. The curriculum covers English, Mathematics, Technology, Te Reo Māori, Languages, Social Sciences, Health and Physical Education, Science, Visual Art, Food Technology, Performance Art, STEAM, and Material Technology. English literacy is defined as the study, use, and enjoyment of the English language and its literature, with learning across oral, visual, and written forms. Te Reo Māori is taught in all classes with three instructional lessons per week in Term 1, focusing on korero, and Te Reo is used in classes throughout the school year. Languages are integrated into everyday life to celebrate diversity and promote intercultural understanding; Social Sciences use six Transdisciplinary Themes; Health and Physical Education emphasizes Hauora, well-being, attitudes and values, and social action.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
The school places wellbeing at the center of learning. The Hauora Initiative provides a structured wellbeing program for staff and learners, addressing mental, emotional, physical and spiritual wellness. The Wellbeing Model underpins the approach, based on the five ways to wellbeing and Te Whare Whā Wha. Learners keep a wellbeing journal to record tools, strategies, and goals as they progress. Wellbeing is integrated into units of inquiry and is complemented by explicit wellbeing lessons throughout the year. The school aims to foster resilient, connected learners and a positive school climate.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)
Literacy Support is offered through a specialised withdrawal programme with Teaching Assistants working one-on-one with ESOL learners. A team of Teacher Assistants supports learners with learning and behavioural differences so they can participate in classroom and specialist subject learning. The WordChain programme supports phonological awareness and language skills. Multilingual Support (MLS/ESOL Withdrawal Programme) provides in-class support, MLS classes and targeted Literacy Support for multilingual learners. The school integrates these supports with classroom teaching to enable participation and access to the full curriculum.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)
English Language Learner support is provided through Multilingual Withdraw Programme (MWP) and MLS/ESOL Withdrawal Programme, with in-class support and targeted literacy work. All staff are English language instructors and play a role in language development for students. Literacy Support, International Literacy Support and in-class MLS support are available for multilingual learners. The programs are designed to help multilingual learners access the full curriculum in English. The school emphasises multilingualism and translanguaging within a supportive learning environment.

Mental Wellbeing
The Hauora Initiative underpins TNIS's approach to wellbeing, guiding mental, emotional, physical and spiritual wellness for staff and learners. The school uses a Wellbeing Model and resources based on the five ways to wellbeing and Te Whare Whā Wha. Learners maintain a wellbeing journal to track tools, strategies and progress. Wellbeing is embedded in learning through both inquiry units and stand-alone lessons, with explicit teaching of wellbeing concepts. The program aims to cultivate resilient, connected learners and a positive school climate.

Safeguarding
Policies are administered via School Docs, the central policy portal used by the school. The site provides a Concerns and Complaints Process for addressing safeguarding and child-protection matters. Access to the full set of policies requires login to School Docs. The school uses formal safeguarding procedures to protect learners and respond to concerns.
Parent Experience

History
TNIS is a Normal School. Historically, Normal Schools were centres of excellence in teacher education and partnered with universities to provide practical teaching placements. TNIS continues this tradition by maintaining strong partnerships with Initial Teacher Education providers. Trainee teachers complete their practical placements in TNIS classrooms every year, observing experienced teachers and learning in a real world setting.

Community
TNIS is a learner-centred environment, with a safe, collaborative and supportive community. The ACE vision stands for Action, Connection and Excellence and guides learners' personal growth. The TNIS Way emphasises Ako, Wānanga, Kotahitanga, Manaakitanga, Mahi Tahi, Mana Motuhake, Ngā Whakapiringitanga, Whanaungatanga and Tangata Whenuatanga to build relationships and inclusive learning. Cultural responsiveness and strong relationships are central to school life with events such as PYP Exhibition, Performing Arts Showcases, Cultural Fortnight Food Truck Tuesday and interschool sports that involve families and the wider community.
Facilities

Facilities Overview
Takapuna Normal Intermediate has extensive outdoor areas for sport and an adventure playground. The campus includes a renovated hall, a music practice room, a library, and a cafe serving hot and cold nutritious food. There are 24 classrooms and six specialist classrooms, including spaces for Science; Music, Dance and Drama; Food Technology; and Visual Art. All classrooms have high-speed internet and computers for learning. The Desmond Withell Auditorium was renovated in early 2023 and features retractable bleacher seating, heating, audio-visual equipment, a full kitchen, eight bathrooms (one accessible), and parking for about 25 vehicles; access is via the Taharoto Road entrance.

Sports Facilities
Takapuna Normal Intermediate has extensive outdoor areas for sport, including basketball courts and an adventure playground. The school offers a wide range of sporting codes across multiple levels for both boys and girls. Sports programs are supported by staff and volunteers with North Harbour partnerships.

Academic Facilities
Six specialist classrooms are dedicated to Science; Music, Dance and Drama; Food Technology; and Visual Art. High-speed internet is available in all classrooms and students use computers for learning. BYOD is supported. The school provides a variety of technology to aid teaching.

Extra Curricular Facilities
The school offers a wide range of extra-curricular learning opportunities. A broad sports program covers many codes for both boys and girls.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual
TNIS runs a STEAM program focused on Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math, with technologies and robotics integrated into design thinking to create solutions. The program emphasises collaboration, critical thinking and problem-solving. TNIS offers an International Baccalaureate-aligned framework integrated with the New Zealand Curriculum.

Arts & Creative
TNIS provides cultural and performing arts opportunities through Cultural, Performance, Service, and Leadership groups. Cultural events include a Cultural Fortnight and activities such as Food Truck Tuesday. Photolife captures performances and groups to showcase their work.

Cultural & Language
TNIS provides international student support with an International Student Director and dedicated staff. The language of instruction is English with additional language acquisition support. TNIS offers resources for international learners through its International Learners Guides and IB alignment.

Social & Hobbies
TNIS offers after-school sports clubs and opportunities to compete in events such as Regional Zone Days and NZ AIMS. A wide range of sports codes are offered for both boys and girls, including athletics, cricket, hockey, football, netball, basketball, golf, table tennis, touch rugby, water polo and swimming. Cross country is offered with a competitive trial hosted by TNIS for the North Harbour Zone Championships. Team sports and activities are supported by volunteers and staff to enable participation.

Community & Service
Daffodil Day fundraising is conducted by TNIS to support the Cancer Society. HWOO Community Project invites Year 7 learners and families to participate in community advocacy projects. TNIS highlights community involvement through events and the existence of Cultural, Performance, Service, and Leadership groups. Whakatau kaupapa welcomes new learners and families into the TNIS community.

Leadership & Professional
Cultural, Performance, Service, and Leadership groups operate at TNIS, providing leadership opportunities for students. The TNIS Way emphasises Ako, Wananga, Kotahitanga, Manaakitanga, Mahi Tahi, Mana Motuhake, Nga Whakapiringitanga, Whanaungatanga and Tangata Whenuatanga as values guiding collaboration and leadership. There are leadership and professional development opportunities embedded in groups and student experiences.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing
TNIS offers Education Outside the Classroom (EOTC) experiences including kayaking, camping, trekking, cycling, Tree Adventures rope climbing and other activities. The school offers a diverse sports program across many codes to promote physical well-being and active lifestyles. TNIS emphasises healthy competition, fair play and the development of life skills through sport.
Languages

Language Provision
The school has a bi-cultural commitment in Aotearoa New Zealand. Tikanga and Te Reo Māori Kaupapa guide daily practice, including a daily karakia to welcome the day and the use of waiata. A Māori Education Plan focuses on Te Aō/Te Reo Māori and cultural identity as a means to success, with aims to create positive learning environments, productive partnerships between students, teachers and home, and valuing people and the environment. All Māori words and phrases are pronounced correctly.
Admissions

Admissions
1. In-zone applications: Families living inside the school zone complete an online enrolment application using the form linked below. Upload two pieces of evidence of home address (e.g. utility bills or tenancy agreement), a student identification document (birth certificate or passport, with visas if applicable), and the latest school report. Complete all caregiver contact details, including an additional emergency contact. If uploading documents is difficult, send them separately to enrolments@tnis.school.nz. Enrolments for 2027 will open on 1 July 2026. 2. Out-of-zone applications: Out-of-zone applications for the 2027 Year 7 learners are now closed. The ballot will be held for any available places on 9 September and the results will be emailed within three school days. Priority will be given to siblings and children of past pupils in line with the Enrolment Scheme and Ministry of Education Guidelines. For queries please email enrolments@tnis.school.nz. 3. International Student Applications: For information on enrolling an International Student, contact our International Director, Sophia Yang, at studynz@tnis.school.nz. 4. Information evenings: Information Evening Slides are available and a Parent Orientation Evening is offered. 5. 2027 Enrolments: Enrolments for 2027 will open on 1 July 2026.

Waitlist
Out-of-zone applications are processed via a ballot for any available places. The ballot is held on 9 September for any available places with results emailed within three school days. Priority is given to siblings and children of past pupils in accordance with the Enrolment Scheme and Ministry of Education Guidelines.
School Events
The school has not added events
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