Leading Education
A strong foundation for university and beyond
The broad and balanced curriculum at St Andrew’s College is based on the vision and requirements of The New Zealand Curriculum, which states that ‘all students, regardless of where they are situated, should experience a rich and balanced education that embraces the intent of the National Curriculum’.
Opportunity, challenge and choice
Every student arrives at St Andrew’s College with different strengths, interests and aspirations.
Our broad curriculum gives students the opportunity to build an academic programme suited to their abilities and future goals, with extensive choices across sciences, mathematics, commerce, humanities, technologies, languages, visual arts and performing arts.
As an independent school, St Andrew’s College has the flexibility to develop programmes that respond to the needs of its students while following the New Zealand Curriculum.
Small numbers, individual support
Our international programme is deliberately limited to no more than 30 international students at any one time.
For students and their families, this means a personal approach. We have the opportunity to get to know each international student, understand their academic goals and support them as they adapt to a different school and education system.
Students can receive guidance with subject choices, academic progress, English language development and planning for their next steps.
Find the right academic pathway
A broad curriculum allows students to follow their individual interests while keeping future pathways open.
Alongside core learning areas, Secondary School students can choose from an extensive range of specialist subjects, including sciences, commerce, digital technologies, visual arts, performing arts and other specialist programmes.
Students are guided in making appropriate subject choices according to their year level, strengths, interests and future study plans.
Pathways to university
For many international families, preparation for university is an important part of choosing a school.
St Andrew’s College supports students as they plan their academic pathway and consider tertiary study in New Zealand or overseas.
Students can receive guidance with subject selection, academic planning and university applications, helping them understand the steps required to work towards their future goals.
New Zealand’s NCEA qualifications are recognised by universities internationally, and the College’s existing academic page notes that staff can assist students with overseas university applications.
Supported to succeed
Moving into a new education system can be challenging, particularly when English is not a student’s first language.
International students at St Andrew’s College have access to English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) support based on their individual needs, alongside support from teachers, Tutors and the International team.
Our goal is to help students develop the confidence to participate fully in classroom learning while continuing to strengthen the academic and conversational English they need for future study.
The current Academic Support and Pathways page specifies that ESOL support is available one-to-one or in small groups, usually for two or more hours each week depending on individual needs.
Developing confident, capable young people
Education at St Andrew’s College extends well beyond academic achievement.
International students are encouraged to become involved in sport, culture, service, leadership and other co-curricular opportunities.
These experiences help students develop skills that are equally important for their future, including communication, collaboration, resilience, independence and confidence.
They also provide opportunities to build friendships with New Zealand students and become part of the wider College community.
Study in New Zealand, become part of St Andrew’s
Academic opportunity is only one part of studying at St Andrew’s College.
Our deliberately small international community gives students the chance to form friendships with Kiwi students, experience life in Christchurch and become involved in sport, culture, outdoor education and the wider life of the College.
For some families, that experience is the first reason they consider St Andrew’s.
