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Clubs Academic and Intellectual, Arts and Creative, Cultural and Language
Stages Middle School, Secondary School
Introduction
John McGlashan College is a state-integrated boys' secondary school in Dunedin, New Zealand, serving Years 7–13 with on-site boarding. The college offers the IB Diploma Programme alongside Learning Pathways 2024, with Years 7–8 taught in homerooms where Integrated Studies and Mathematics form a foundation; core subjects are taught by specialist teachers. Year 9 continues Integrated Studies in homerooms. Facilities include Davies' Sport Centre, the Edgar Learning Centre, Library with print and digital resources, on-site Boarding Houses (Ross House and Balmacewan House), Chapel, and a canteen. A Second Campus at Te Anau Downs supports adventure-based learning. The school has a history, opened in 1918 and state-integrated since 1990. It supports international students through ESOL and pathways to IB English Language B, with DISC International Social, German exchanges and PASCH scholarships. Co-curriculars span music and drama, outdoor education, debating and chess, and leadership programs such as Duke of Edinburgh and World Challenge.
2 Pilkington Street, Māori Hill, Dunedin 9010, New Zealand
The Essentials
John McGlashan College has 500 pupils, typical class sizes of 12, instruction in English.
Location
2 Pilkington Street, Māori Hill, Dunedin 9010, New Zealand. It sits in the Māori Hill suburb, less than 2 km from Dunedin's city centre. The college serves both boarding and day pupils and is a Year 7–13 boys' school.
Stages
Year 7–13. Junior School (Year 7–10) and Senior School (Year 11–13).
Type
State-integrated, boys, secondary school for Year 7–13 with boarding facilities.
Pupil Nationality Mix
Approximately 40 international students; about 500 day boys and boarders; most students are local Dunedin residents from the city and surrounding Otago/Southland regions.
Additional learning support
EXCEL Tutoring (peer tutoring); Literacy and Numeracy Booster (Year 9–10); Year 11 guided study; Junior Peer Reading (Year 7–8 with Year 10 mentors); Supported Literacy Programmes (Year 7–8); Assistive technology access and training; Reader/Writer support (where eligible); RTLB referral processes; SAC application process.
Country affiliation
New Zealand
Religious affiliation
Presbyterian (Christian) affiliation; the college was established with Presbyterian Church involvement and maintains a Christian-influenced environment.
School day structure
First full day on 2 February; 8:40 am Formal Assembly for Year 7–13; Period 1 with Form Teachers; Period 2–6 Normal timetable begins.
Bus service
Bus transport is available; Bee Card fares apply (free for ages 5–12 with registered Bee Card; NZ$1.20 for ages 13–18 per trip); Bee Cards can be topped up and accepted on buses; pay by Bee Card or cash; bus timetables and disruption alerts are available through ORC/Transit apps.
Fees
Annual tuition at John McGlashan College ranges from NZD 1,430 to NZD 24,990 for 2026/27.
Application / administration fees - International students: Administration fee NZD 600 (one-off on application). - Domestic (New Zealand resident) applicants: No entrance fee is payable. Attendance dues apply instead.
Tuition / compulsory fee structure by student type and year groups - Domestic day students (Years 7–13): Attendance dues (compulsory) are charged per term at NZD 357.50 (exclusive of GST). This is charged each term and equals NZD 1,430.00 per year (4 terms). Attendance dues apply to all pupils. Additional voluntary contributions are requested separately. Fees are invoiced as described below. - Domestic boarders (Years 9–13): Attendance dues as above plus a boarding fee invoiced per term: boarding fee NZD 4,875.00 per term (inclusive of GST). Boarding accommodation is available from Year 9. - International students (all year groups accepted according to enrolment policy; boarding available from Year 9): - Tuition (annual): NZD 24,990 per academic year (tuition fees are payable for the full year at the beginning of the calendar year). - Per-term equivalent (calculated): NZD 6,247.50 per term (annual tuition divided by 4 terms). This per-term figure is a straightforward division of the published annual tuition and is presented for billing-comparison purposes. - International boarding (46 weeks): NZD 21,500 (where boarding is required). Homestay (46 weeks) option: NZD 16,100.
Compulsory / routine additional charges that apply by cohort or activity - Annual Voluntary Contribution (requested donation): NZD 2,160 per year (commonly collected monthly as NZD 180 per month). - Disbursement / security deposit for international students: NZD 2,500 (held to pay incidental student accounts such as sports, field trips, stationery, second‑hand uniform, exams). Any unused balance is refunded at the end of the student's enrolment. - Deposit (other specified student deposit): NZD 750. Insurance/related charge: NZD 635 (labels shown in the international fees schedule; these are charged in addition to tuition for international students). - IBDP (International Baccalaureate) programme fee for IBDP students (Years 12–13): published programme/resource charge is NZD 320 per term (invoiced at NZD 640 per semester) for IBDP students; the international fee schedule shows an IBDP charge of NZD 300 per term for international-student invoicing. Both figures are published by the College for IB students; the term-based charge is applied to IB cohorts. (Per-term figures as published by the IBDP course outline and international schedule respectively.) - IB-related extras: IB core camp and subject/resource items are charged separately (IB camp example NZD 320 one-off; Kognity textbooks approx. NZD 68 per relevant subject; Pamoja external course fees approximately USD 1,200 per course per year where used). These charges are in addition to attendance dues/tuition and are invoiced when applicable. - Day‑boy lunch in the Boarding House (optional): NZD 37.50 per week (charged per term sign-up). - Extras on a user‑pays basis: music tuition, subject workshop materials (e.g., art, woodwork), sports fees (equipment, affiliation, travel), field trips, stationery, examination fees and second‑hand uniform purchases. These are invoiced to the student account as they occur.
Billing schedule and payment terms - International tuition billing: Tuition fees for international students are payable at the beginning of each calendar year for the full year; pro rata adjustments are made when a student commences part‑way through the year. - Term and account billing for domestic families: - Attendance dues and boarding fees are added to school accounts at the beginning of each term. - School accounts are issued monthly (accounts are sent at the end of each month). Fees that appear on an invoice are due and payable within one month of billing (effectively due early in the term when attendance dues/boarding fees are added). - Notice and in‑lieu requirements: Parents must give a term's written notice of withdrawal; failing this, a term's attendance dues must be paid in lieu of notice. This requirement also applies to special classes with additional fees.
Boarding fees and arrangements - School boarding (for domestic boarders): Boarding fee NZD 4,875.00 per term (inclusive of GST) is applied to all boarders and invoiced at the start of term. Boarding accomodation is for Years 9–13. Refund/notice conditions follow the term‑notice rules above. - International boarding (published for 46 weeks): NZD 21,500 (this figure is shown in the international fee schedule). Homestay option (46 weeks) is NZD 16,100. Disbursement/security deposits for international students are required as noted above.
Other routine costs (uniform, insurance, deposits) - Uniform and second‑hand uniform: uniforms are charged on a user‑pays basis when purchased; second‑hand uniform costs may be charged against disbursement deposits where applicable. Stationery and subject materials are charged where required. (Uniform items and exact prices vary by item and are charged when purchased.) - Overseas/health/other insurance charges and a named insurance amount are listed in the international schedule (shown as NZD 635 in the international fees schedule line items).
Refund information - For international students, any remaining funds in homestay, security or disbursement deposit accounts are refunded following completion of the student's time at the College. Tuition is pro rata if a student commences part‑way through the year. - For domestic enrolments, a term's notice in writing is required to avoid being charged a term's attendance dues in lieu of notice; standard invoices and refunds for incidental account credits are handled through the school accounts process. Fees are due within one month of billing.
Fee payment options and practical payment details - Online credit card payments are accepted through the College payment portal; a credit‑card processing fee of 3% applies to online account payments. - Direct bank transfer / school bank account payments are accepted; the school account name is John McGlashan Presbyterian College Board Incorporated. Direct‑debit arrangements are available by completing the school's direct‑debit authority form. Use the student's School ID number as the payment reference.
Key billing and payment reminders (concise) - Attendance dues: NZD 357.50 per term (excl. GST) for all pupils; invoiced each term, due within one month of billing. - Boarding (domestic): NZD 4,875.00 per term (incl. GST). - International tuition: NZD 24,990 per year (per-term equivalent NZD 6,247.50); administration fee NZD 600; disbursement/security deposits and insurance charges apply. Unused deposit balances are refunded at the end of enrolment.
(End of fees overview.)
Academics
John McGlashan College teaches IB (DP), Bespoke Curriculum for students aged 11 to 18.
Curriculum
The school runs a Year 7–13 curriculum with Learning Pathways 2024. Years 7–8 are taught in homerooms, with half the teaching time devoted to Integrated Studies & Mathematics, covering English, Social Studies and Mathematics; units focus on key concepts and authentic assessment opportunities. Core subjects such as Science, Physical Education, Te Reo Māori and Christian Studies are taught by specialist teachers, with other subjects delivered by specialists in Art, Drama, Music, Food, Workshop and Digital Technology. Year 9 continues Integrated Studies (Social Science and English) in homerooms.
Student Teacher Ratio
The Junior School has a low student-to-teacher ratio in a homeroom environment.
Exam Results
NCEA Levels 1–3 and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) are offered; senior years are geared towards study at tertiary institutions in New Zealand and abroad, with transition courses available. The school recognises achievement in NCEA through awards and assemblies, including recognitions of high achievement.
Higher Education Progression
In the senior years, the academic programme is geared towards qualifications for study at tertiary institutions in New Zealand and abroad. NZ qualifications and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme are offered, with links to higher education and careers noted in the prospectus; partnerships and pathways for graduates to study in New Zealand and overseas are highlighted.
Wellbeing
Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
The school places mental health and wellbeing at the center of student development. The school focuses on fostering connection, building resilience, and encouraging self-care through strong relationships, open communication, and healthy lifestyle habits. The school provides on-site support through a pastoral care team, confidential counselling services, and peer mentoring to help students facing challenges. The school embeds mental health education in the curriculum, covering recognition of signs of stress, anxiety, and depression, emotional regulation, coping strategies, and help-seeking behaviours. The school collaborates with external organisations such as Life Matters Suicide Trust and provides whānau resources through Youthline, 1737 Need to Talk?, and the Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand. The school offers 24/7 immediate support services via 1737 Need to Talk, Youthline, and Lifeline.
Special Educational Needs (SEN)
The Learning Support Programme meets students where they are in terms of achievement and provides strategies and opportunities to ensure progress across all curriculum areas. The school offers a flexible and reactive programme starting with assessment of learning abilities to identify strengths and areas for remediation. Learning Support Programmes include EXCEL Tutoring (peer tutoring), Literacy and Numeracy Booster classes, Year 11 guided study group, Junior Peer Reading (Year 7–8 with Year 10 mentors), and Supported Literacy Programmes. Additional supports include Assistive technology access and training, Reader/Writer support (where eligible), RTLB referral processes, and SAC applications. Access to Learning Support is through the Learning Support Team or through the student's Form or classroom Teacher, and a progress plan is developed with the student, teachers, Year Level Dean, and family. The Learning Support Staff include Donna Smith (HoD Learning Support), Cath Bowden (Literacy Coordinator), Kilifi Fangupo (Teacher Aide), Penny Ferguson (Learning Support Administrator & Teacher Aide), Simon Maole (Teacher Aide), Heidi Ombler (Teacher Aide – International Support), and Julie Tolson (Teacher Aide).
English as an Additional Language (EAL)
The school provides specialised ESOL (English as a Second Language) support for international students. The ESOL department is well-staffed and resourced, and students are assessed on arrival to place them in appropriate classes. The study options include ESOL and the International Baccalaureate English Language B for students who wish to pursue that qualification. The school offers a full academic programme with ESOL integrated, and students study alongside New Zealand students to build conversational English through integrated study. The International Student Manager oversees accommodation and care, including host families in homestay arrangements or the school boarding house. The school welcomes 25–40 international students each year from a range of countries including Japan, Korea, China, Hong Kong, Thailand, Vietnam, Germany, Italy and Austria.
Mental Wellbeing
The school recognises wellbeing as essential for academic, social, and personal thriving. The school focuses on connectedness, resilience, and self-care through strong relationships, belonging, and healthy routines. The school provides on-site pastoral care, including counselling, a pastoral care team, and peer mentoring to support wellbeing. The school embeds mental health education in the curriculum, covering signs of stress, anxiety, and depression; developing emotional regulation and healthy coping strategies; and promoting help-seeking behaviours. The school collaborates with Life Matters Suicide Trust and provides resources for whānau, including Youthline, 1737 Need to Talk?, and the Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand. The school provides 24/7 immediate support services via 1737 Need to Talk, Youthline, and Lifeline.
Safeguarding
The school is committed to a safe, respectful environment where bullying is not tolerated. Reporting routes are clear: students and whānau can speak to a trusted adult, teacher, dean, or school counsellor; emergency assistance is available if needed. The Pastoral Care Network provides access to counselling and a dedicated pastoral care team to address safeguarding and wellbeing needs. The Health Education Programme on campus covers nutrition and fitness, mental health awareness, healthy relationships and communication, and substance education to support safeguarding. The school collaborates with whānau and local organisations to safeguard student welfare and provide additional resources. If concerns arise, contact the health team or the school office.
Admissions
Admissions
1. Decide whether to enrol as a Day Boy or as a Boarder. The College provides separate enrolment pathways for Day Boy and Boarding, with information published on the Enrolments pages. Boarding enrolments note an intake target of 25 Year 9 boarders. The enrolment path you choose determines the next steps you will follow. 2. For boarding applicants, arrange a Tour and a Talk with the Principal and the Director of Boarding before June. This visit provides an opportunity to view the College and boarding facilities and to ask questions. After the Tour and Talk, families move to the next step in the enrolment process. 3. After meeting with the Principal and the Director of Boarding, complete the enrolment form. The enrolment form is submitted along with any accompanying documents as part of the application. If you have questions about the process, consult the contact listed for boarding enrolments. 4. Submit the enrolment application. For Day Boy enrolments, use the Application for Enrolment page; for boarding, use the enrolment form you completed and submit as directed. The enrolment contact details include Kim Jellie for boarding inquiries. 5. If applications exceed places, the College uses a ballot to determine final places. The enrolment process notes that preference may be given to pupils whose parents have a family, religious or philosophic sympathy with the College's special character. The Board of Proprietors identifies preference candidates and submits them to the Board of Trustees, who implement a Ministry approved enrolment scheme; most applicants are placed by ballot. 6. Note important dates and events. Boarding Open Day is on May 8, 2026, and boarding applications for 2027 close at 5:00 pm on June 14, 2026. The general enrolment process for Day Boys follows the same framework, and deadlines apply as published on the Application for Enrolment page. Regular inquiries can be directed to the College's enrolment team.
Waitlist
When enrolment places are limited, there is a waitlist/ballot process. If more applications are received than places, a ballot determines final placements. Preference may be given to pupils whose parents have a family, religious or philosophic sympathy with the College's special character. The Board of Proprietors identifies preferred candidates to submit to the Board of Trustees, who implement a Ministry approved enrolment scheme; most placements are made by ballot. If oversubscription occurs, seven categories are considered in the enrolment process to determine placement.
FAQs
Where is John McGlashan College located, and what is the campus like?
John McGlashan College is in Dunedin, New Zealand, at 2 Pilkington Street, Māori Hill (9010). It sits less than 2 km from Dunedin's city centre and includes on‑site boarding houses, a chapel, Davies' Sport Centre, the Edgar Learning Centre, and a well-stocked library.
What ages or year levels does the college serve, and is it a boarding school?
The college serves students in Years 7–13, aged about 11 to 18. It is a boys' state‑integrated secondary school with on‑site boarding available from Year 9.
What curriculum framework does the school use for Years 7–13?
The school runs a Year 7–13 curriculum with Learning Pathways 2024. Years 7–8 place a strong emphasis on Integrated Studies and Mathematics, with specialist teaching across core and elective subjects; the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme is offered in the senior years alongside a bespoke curriculum track.
How much does it cost to attend for international students, including board?
International tuition is NZD 24,990 per year. International boarding (46 weeks) is NZD 21,500, with homestay at NZD 16,100. An international administration fee of NZD 600 is charged, plus additional deposits and insurance costs.
How does the admission process work, and is there a waitlist or ballot?
There are separate enrolment pathways for Day Boy and Boarding. If applications exceed places, a ballot determines final placements, with some preference given to families with a shared religious/philosophic character.
When are fees billed and what are the payment terms?
International tuition is billed at the start of the calendar year. Domestic accounts are billed per term (attendance dues and, for boarders, boarding fees) with most invoices due within one month. A term's written withdrawal notice is required to avoid fees in lieu of notice.
Are there any special intake targets or key dates for boarding applicants?
Yes. Boarding has an intake target of 25 Year 9 boarders. A Boarding Open Day is on May 8, 2026, and 2027 boarding applications close at 5:00 pm on June 14, 2026.
What exams does John McGlashan College offer for senior students?
The college offers NZ‑based NCEA Levels 1–3 and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) for senior students.
How are classes and learning structured in the junior years?
Years 7–8 are taught in homerooms with half of teaching time devoted to Integrated Studies & Mathematics. Core subjects such as Science, Physical Education, Te Reo Māori and Christian Studies are taught by specialists, with other subjects delivered by specialists in areas like Art, Drama, Music, Food, Workshop and Digital Technology.
What are the higher education pathways and connections for graduates?
Senior years are geared toward study at tertiary institutions in New Zealand and overseas, with NZ qualifications and the IB Diploma offered and explicit pathways and transitions described in the college prospectus.
What on‑campus facilities support learning and well‑being?
The campus includes the Davies' Sport Centre, the Edgar Learning Centre and a central library with print and digital resources. The Year 7–8 facilities are purpose‑built, and there is a chapel and on‑site boarding in dedicated houses (Ross and Balmacewen) to support student life.
Is there an on‑campus focus on outdoor and adventure education?
Yes. A distinctive Te Anau Downs Campus is used for adventure‑based learning, complemented by a canteen and a strong outdoor education program, school camps and performing arts.
What are the on‑site boarding arrangements like?
Boarding is on campus with Ross House (Year 9 boarders) and Balmacewen House (senior boarders in single rooms). Each house has its own common rooms and is staffed by a Director of Boarding, an Assistant Manager, a Matron and housemasters.
What extracurricular activities and clubs are available?
The college offers interschool debating and chess, participation in the Sheilah Winn Shakespeare Festival, German exchanges and PASCH scholarships, instrumental tuition (guitar, drums, piano, etc.), two jazz groups (Big Band and Small Combo), a Film Club and regular school productions.
What leadership and service opportunities exist beyond the classroom?
Students can engage in Duke of Edinburgh (DoE) programs from Bronze to Gold, World Challenge expeditions, and formal student leadership roles such as Head Prefect and Deputy Head Prefects for 2026.
What language and culture opportunities does the school provide for international students?
International students participate in ESOL and English language classes with pathways to IB English Language B. There are German language exchanges, PASCH scholarships and a Germany–New Zealand exchange program, plus DISC Socials for international students.
What wellbeing and safeguarding support is available?
The college prioritises wellbeing with on‑site pastoral care, confidential counselling and peer mentoring. It provides mental‑health education, 24/7 support lines (1737 Need to Talk?, Lifeline, Youthline), and safeguarding guidelines with clear reporting routes.
What support is available for students with learning needs or English as an additional language?
A Learning Support Programme offers assessment-based support, EXCEL peer tutoring, Literacy and Numeracy Booster classes, Year 11 guided study and Junior Peer Reading, plus Assistive Technology and RTLB/SAC pathways where appropriate.
How is safeguarding and student welfare managed day‑to‑day?
A dedicated Pastoral Care Network, a health team and a strong emphasis on healthy relationships and safe environments support safeguarding. Students and whānau can access counselling and wellbeing resources as needed.
What is distinctive about the school culture and how is the uniform managed?
Formality is observed on uniform days (Wednesdays for chapel/assembly; 2026 Mondays are also formal uniform days). NZ Uniforms is the official provider, with ties available at the school office and sports uniforms from Otago Sports Depot.
