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Christchurch Boys' High School

New Zealand, Christchurch

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English
Fees NZ$19,000
Ages Not listed
Pupil numbers 1441
Type Boys School, Boys School (boarding)
Opened 1881
Bus Service No
Academic offering
Curriculum Bespoke Curriculum
Taught languages French, Japanese
Strengths Sport, Performing Arts, STEM
Clubs Arts and Creative, Leadership and Professional, Social and Hobbies
Stages Secondary School
Introduction

Christchurch Boys' High School sits at 71 Straven Road, Christchurch, and has educated boys since 1881. The school operates a Year 9–13 curriculum with a broad subject range. Core subjects are English, Mathematics, Science and Social Studies, with Year 9 languages including French, Japanese and Te Reo Māori. The Arts programme covers Music, Drama, Visual Arts and Film/Media, and participates in the Sheilah Winn Shakespeare Competition. Technology and Design pathways include Materials Technology, Digital Technology, and Design/Visual Communications. Health and Physical Education and Outdoor Education run through the timetable, alongside a wide sport program. In Years 11–13 students may study Accounting, Economics, Business Studies, Agribusiness, Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Mathematics, with Drama available as a UE subject. The curriculum aligns with NCEA and integrates academic, sporting and cultural learning. Facilities include Wilson Library with a 3D printer, Apple iMacs, and a modern Adams House with pool and courts. Adams House facilities.

71 Straven Road, Christchurch 8014, New Zealand

The Essentials

Christchurch Boys' High School has 1,441 pupils, instruction in English.

Location
71 Straven Road, Christchurch 8014, New Zealand. The school is located in Christchurch, New Zealand. Adams House boarding hostel is a five-minute walk from CBHS.

Stages
Years 9–13.

Type
Boys' high school; boarding facilities available at Adams House on site.

Additional learning support
Learning support is available, including inclusive learning for neurodiverse learners and ESOL classes for international students.

Country affiliation
New Zealand
Diving Deeper

Boarding Arrangements
Adams House is the boarding hostel for Christchurch Boys' High School, providing accommodation for about 135 boarders across three blocks (Straven, Worcester, Harakeke). The hostel is a five-minute walk from the school.

Uniform Requirement
The school has a formal uniform; official CBHS uniforms are sold exclusively through the CBHS Uniform Shop, and the uniform includes a black CBHS blazer and school tie.

Food Options
The school has a canteen offering a variety of nourishing meal and snack options.

Governance and Ownership
The school is governed by the Christchurch Boys' High School Board of Trustees. The Crown provides the major source of revenue for the school.
Fees

Annual tuition at Christchurch Boys' High School ranges from NZD 19,000 for 2026/27.

Application / Administration Fees
- Administration (application/enrolment) fee: NZD 550.

Tuition fees (international fee‑paying students) — per term and per year
- Tuition (including orientation activities and airport pickup/dropoff):
- 1 Term: NZD 5,250.
- 2 Terms: NZD 9,900.
- 3 Terms: NZD 14,400.
- Full year: NZD 19,000.
- A one‑time short‑term group rate applies for group programmes of 6 weeks or less: NZD 800 per week.
- NCEA (assessment) fee for students sitting NCEA (Years 10–13): NZD 383.30.
- Stationery fee (one‑off): NZD 200.

Tuition fees by year group notes
- The published international tuition bands above apply to international secondary students enrolled at the school; NCEA fees apply for Years 10–13. Other compulsory or year‑specific activity charges may apply as indicated in the activities section.

Boarding (Adams House)
- Annual boarding fee (published for 2026): NZD 19,100.
- Boarding deposit (non‑refundable): NZD 1,500.
- Billing schedule: the annual boarding fee is payable in two equal instalments — payment in January and payment in June.
- Payment terms for boarding: all boarding and boarding activity fees must be paid by direct debit; incidental charges and activity fees are charged as incurred and may be collected via the school's payment arrangements. Those receiving a Boarding Allowance will have that allowance credited to the account.

Homestay and accommodation (for international students not in the school hostel)
- Homestay fee: NZD 400 per week; for students under 14, the homestay weekly rate is NZD 420.
- Homestay placement and monitoring fee (one‑off): NZD 350.
- Homestay fees paid to the school are held and paid to host families in regular payments; any remaining homestay fees at the end of enrolment are refunded according to the school's refund policy.

Other compulsory or regularly charged costs
- Uniform (new): Senior NZD 560; Junior NZD 430.
- Uniform hire: Senior — 1 term NZD 280, 2 terms NZD 315; Junior — 1 term NZD 230, 2 terms NZD 265.
- Airport pickup/drop off: NZD 50 each way (NZD 100 for pickups before 8:00 or after 22:00).
- Insurance (indicative quote): NZD 633 (Southern Cross international student package — quote available).
- Activities charge (organised activities per year group): 1–2 terms NZD 250; 3–4 terms NZD 500 (examples of organised activities include ski trip, Hanmer Springs, and other year‑group activities).

Billing schedule and payment terms (tuition and other school fees)
- International tuition and related fees are charged according to enrolment and the published fee bands above. Specific billing timing for tuition and homestay fees follows the school's enrolment and invoicing procedures for international students; homestay fees are held by the school and paid to host families in regular payments.
- Boarding fees are collected by direct debit in two instalments (January and June) and incidental charges may be added to the direct debit if unpaid on the direct debit date. Payments and incidental charges can be managed through the school's Parent Portal.
- Uniform shop payments may be made by cash, EFTPOS, or credit card at the uniform outlet.

Refund information (international students)
- Refund requests must be made in writing to the Director of International Students.
- If a refund is requested and accepted before the course start date, fees will be refunded in full less an administration charge of NZD 500.
- If a refund is requested after the course start but before the second half of the course, refunds are made less an administration charge of NZD 500 and less costs already incurred or committed by the school (including tuition costs used, agent commissions, appropriate proportions of staff salaries, facility costs, and the proportion of any government levy payable).
- If the refund request is made after the second half of the course, there is normally no refund except in exceptional circumstances determined by the Headmaster.
- Visa denial: if a student visa is denied prior to the course starting, a full refund is given; if a renewal is denied, a refund is given for fees for the period after the current visa expiry date minus costs incurred by the school.
- No refund will be made in cases such as exclusion for misconduct, voluntary transfer to another school, or where enrolment information is found to be false.
- Homestay refunds: remaining homestay fees at the end of enrolment are refunded according to the school's refund policy; unpaid activity fees or incidental charges will be deducted from any eligible refund.

Fee payment options and practical notes
- Boarding and boarding activity fees: must be paid by direct debit. Incidental charges not settled by the direct debit date may be added to the boarding fee and automatically deducted under direct debit authority. Payments can be managed through the Parent Portal.
- Uniform purchases: accepted payment methods include cash, EFTPOS, and credit card.
- International fee invoices and advance payments are managed under the school's international fees and fee‑protection practices; the school accounts for fees paid in advance and monitors individual student balances.
- For items such as insurance, airport transfers, and some activities the school references third‑party providers or specific quotes (amounts above reflect published indicative charges).

Summary of headline amounts (NZD)
- Tuition (per full year, international): NZD 19,000.
- Boarding annual fee (Adams House, published 2026 figure): NZD 19,100 + NZD 1,500 non‑refundable deposit.
- Administration/application fee: NZD 550.
- Homestay: NZD 400 per week (NZD 420 for U14) + NZD 350 placement/monitoring fee.
- Uniform (new): Senior NZD 560 / Junior NZD 430.
- NCEA fee (Years 10–13): NZD 383.30.
- Stationery: NZD 200.
- Airport pickup: NZD 50 each way.
- Activities: NZD 250 (1–2 terms) or NZD 500 (3–4 terms).
Academics

Christchurch Boys' High School teaches Bespoke Curriculum.

Curriculum
CBHS offers a Year 9–13 curriculum with a broad range of subjects. Core subjects include English, Mathematics, Science and Social Studies, with languages available in Year 9 (French, Japanese, and Te Reo Māori). The Arts programme features Music, Drama, Visual Arts and Film/Media, with opportunities such as the Sheilah Winn Shakespeare Competition. Technology and Design pathways include Materials Technology (wood and metal), Digital Technology, and Design/Visual Communications. Health and Physical Education and Outdoor Education are integrated into the timetable alongside a wide sport programme. In Years 11–13 students can study Accounting, Economics, Business Studies, Agribusiness, Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Mathematics options, with Drama available as a UE subject. The curriculum aligns with New Zealand's National Qualifications (NCEA) and integrates academic, sporting and cultural learning to support boys' development.

Exam Results
Senior students have achieved strong internal NCEA grades, with many attaining Merit and Excellence. The school highlights these NCEA achievements in its communications.

Higher Education Progression
The Careers Department supports students in exploring and preparing for future pathways. Guidance counsellors provide resources, workshops and individual advice, helping students make informed decisions about tertiary education and career choices. Through practical experiences and professional connections, CBHS empowers students to step confidently toward their higher education and career goals.

Gifted and Talented
CBHS administers a range of scholarships for high-achieving students, including ANV Dobbs Memorial Scholarship, the Gordon & Mary Vincent Scholarship, Bickerton-Widdowson Scholarships, and Te Kura Trust Scholarships (Sir Arthur Sims, John Wilson, JF Moffat, The Peter England and Family Community Relations Award, The Brooks Business Development Award, The Chris Todd Scholarship). These scholarships are awarded by application or automatically based on academic performance.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
CBHS promotes holistic wellbeing and resilience. The school recognises the importance of emotional and mental health for successful learning, with comprehensive support services including counselling, peer support, and wellness initiatives.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)
Learning Support provides inclusive environments for neurodiverse learners, with reader/writer assistance for assessments, referrals for tailored learning plans, and resources covering ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and related conditions.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)
ESOL International Programme provides English language support through dedicated English Language classes. On arrival, students' English proficiency is assessed using the Ministry of Education's English Language Learning Progressions (ELLP), with placement into appropriate ESL classes. Year 9–10 offer 9 & 10ESL alongside mainstream English; Year 11–13 offer 12ESL and 12EAP, with some Year 13 students pursuing 13EAP. The aim is to equip international students with language skills to manage learning within the New Zealand Curriculum.

Mental Wellbeing
CBHS prioritises mental health and wellbeing. On-site counselling and a pastoral care team provide guidance and support for students experiencing mental health challenges. Mental health education is integrated into the curriculum to build awareness and skills. Resources for immediate support include 1737 Need to Talk, Youthline, and Lifeline, among others.

Safeguarding
CBHS aims to create a safe and inclusive environment. The PB4L framework guides behaviour to prevent bullying, harassment, and violence, with a culture of respect and inclusion. The school encourages reporting of concerns, and the pastoral care team provides confidential support. The school collaborates with whānau and community partners such as Oranga Tamariki and the NZ Police to support students, and on-site counselling and wellbeing resources are available. For concerns, contact the school office.
Parent Experience

History
Founded in 1881, Christchurch Boys' High School has over 130 years of tradition built on commitment, bravery, honour and service. It began in Worcester Street in central Christchurch and moved to Straven Road in 1926 on land that was part of the Deans Estate and has Ngāi Tahu connections. Old Boys have made notable contributions across the military, the arts, commerce, law and public service, including figures such as Sir Howard Kippenberger. The Canterbury Earthquakes of 2010–2011 caused significant damage, but major redevelopment strengthened and rebuilt key buildings, with the Main Block returning to operation in 2025. The CBHS Recollect digital archive preserves school magazines and other narratives for future access.

Community
CBHS has close ties with its community, including Ngāi Tūāhuriri as a key advisor and partner in supporting Māori student success. The Headmaster emphasizes a warm, energetic environment where staff, students, parents and Old Boys work together with a strong sense of purpose and identity. The school offers extensive cultural and sporting opportunities for students. The Our Community section highlights Te Kura, Old Boys, and The PTA as integral parts of CBHS life.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
The PTA manages the uniform shop, hosts events, organises fundraisers, and provides valuable parental perspectives to the Headmaster. Volunteers are needed to support the uniform shop, especially during December and January for new uniform sales. To contact the PTA Secretary, email secretaryCBHSPTA@gmail.com. The PTA is a recognized part of the CBHS community, linked under Our Community. PTA activities include annual events and general meetings, such as the PTA AGM held on May 26, 2026.
Facilities

Facilities Overview
Wilson Library is the heart of learning, offering a dynamic space for reading, researching, studying, and relaxing, with fiction and non-fiction books, e-books, magazines, and the daily newspaper. The library also provides modern tools such as a 3D printer, computers, a colour photocopier, laminating and binding services, and board and card games. Adams House sits on 1.3 hectares of grounds with a heated pool, tennis courts, cricket nets, a gym, and sports fields. Adams House provides modern learning spaces with screen sharing, group study areas, and remote printing facilities. A multi-sport turf complex with tennis courts was planned for completion around the end of 2025.

Sports Facilities
Adams House grounds cover 1.3 hectares and include a heated pool, tennis courts, cricket nets, a gym, and sports fields. CBHS offers a wide range of winter and summer sports, with physical education in the curriculum for all boys through Year 10, and top teams competing regionally and nationally. Winter sports include badminton, basketball, cycling, mountain biking, football, hockey, rugby, squash, table tennis and trap shooting; summer sports include athletics, cricket, golf, kick boxing, ki-o-Rahi, rowing, tennis, volleyball and water polo. CBHS football matches have been played on artificial turf.

Academic Facilities
Wilson Library is the heart of learning, with fiction and non-fiction books, e-books, magazines, and the daily newspaper. The library also offers modern tools such as a 3D printer, computers, a colour photocopier, laminating and binding services; board and card games are available. Adams House Learning Facilities provide a modern learning environment with screen sharing, group study areas, and remote printing facilities.

Extra Curricular Facilities
Music at CBHS includes a modern recording studio and Apple iMacs for music and sound technology. CBHS Drama offers opportunities such as the Sheilah Winn Shakespeare Festival, theatre sports, and the Big Night Out; students can join technical crews to master lighting, sound and stage management or explore film and media production. An itinerant music program provides tuition on various instruments.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Arts & Creative
The school has a Music program with opportunities to explore choir, jazz ensembles, orchestras and rock bands. An itinerant music programme offers tuition on various instruments. A modern recording studio and Apple iMacs enable students to engage in music and sound technology during school hours. Drama fosters creativity and confidence with Year 10 drama, the Sheilah Winn Shakespeare Festival, theatre sports, and our annual Big Night Out. Behind the scenes, students can join technical crews to master lighting, sound and stage management or explore film and media production.

Cultural & Language
Music and drama are central to CBHS culture, with performing on stage and creating visual artworks encouraged. The arts programme supports collaboration and cultural traditions across diverse artistic pursuits.

Social & Hobbies
The school offers a wide range of sports across winter and summer. Winter sports include badminton, basketball, cycling, mountain biking, football, hockey, rugby, squash and table tennis, plus trap shooting. Summer sports include athletics, cricket, golf, Kick Boxing, Ki-o-Rahi, rowing, tennis, volleyball and water polo. Internal competitions and inter-school fixtures foster teamwork, perseverance and sportspirit.

Leadership & Professional
The school runs a student leadership program with monitors and student leaders. A leadership framework is being developed to build leadership capacity across Houses, with staff mentors and training. The House system is being relaunched to strengthen belonging and connection.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing
Wellbeing is supported by Student Support and Counselling Services and Health Hub. Sport and outdoor activities are a core part of school life, and CBHS students compete in skiing and trap shooting at national events.
Languages

Language Provision
The school uses English as the language of instruction, with ESOL support for international students through dedicated English Language classes. ESOL is structured around the English Language Learning Progressions, with Year 9–10 ESL and Year 11–13 ESL/EAP to build language proficiency and academic English. Languages offered include French, Japanese, Te Reo Māori, and Chinese; Year 9–13 language options include French, Japanese and Te Reo Māori, with Chinese listed as a language course option.
Admissions

Admissions
The school has in-zone enrolments and out-of-zone enrolments processed in a defined priority order: 1) brothers of current students; 2) brothers of former students; 3) sons of former students; 4) applicants whose parent is a member of or employed by the Board; 5) all other applicants. Enrolment is governed by the Education and Training Act 2020 and related provisions. Enquiries about enrolment can be sent to enrolments@cbhs.nz. Open Day & Key Enrolment Dates, Zone Information, Enrolment Scheme, and Enrolment Form are part of the enrolment process. The Year 9 enrolments for 2027 were closed on July 24, 2026; the out-of-zone ballot was scheduled for July 29, 2026, after which applicants were emailed to indicate whether a place was offered or they were placed on the waitlist. The school does not offer sports scholarships or preferential enrolment based on sporting ability.

Scholarships
The school has CBHS-administered scholarships including ANV Dobbs Memorial Scholarship (awarded by application; for students entering university; preference for a Bachelor of Commerce; based on the current year's Level 3 NCEA results; up to three years with satisfactory progress; approximate value around $890). The Gordon & Mary Vincent Scholarship (awarded by application; enables enrolment at any NZ Medical School; criteria include diligence, conduct, and economic circumstances; value varies; the 2024 total expended was approximately $26,000). The Bickerton-Widdowson Scholarships (awarded without application; for study at University of Canterbury; established 1950; maximum value up to $10,000). Te Kura Trust Scholarships include Sir Arthur Sims Scholarship, John Wilson Scholarship, JF Moffat Scholarship, The Peter England and Family Community Relations Award, The Brooks Business Development Award, and The Chris Todd Scholarship.

Waitlist
The school uses a waitlist as part of the enrolment process for out-of-zone applicants; after the ballot, applicants are advised by email whether they have been offered a place or placed on the waitlist.
School Events
The school has not added events
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