Why join for free?
Already have an account? Log In
New Zealand, Christchurch
Let the school know you're thinking of applying — they can share their prerequisites and help you through the process.
It's best to ask — circumstances can change at any time.
Specialist subjects deepen Unit of Inquiry across all year levels with specialist teachers in Spanish, Music, Science, Mechatronics, Physical Education & Health, Visual Arts, Food Technology, Performing Arts, and STEAM. The programme is delivered by expert teachers who support students across year levels. It aligns with the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme, fostering inquiry-based learning and interdisciplinary connections.
Performing Arts develop confidence and creativity through Dance and Drama, with annual and biennial productions. Music extends beyond the classroom through ensembles, performances, and on-site instrumental lessons with itinerant teachers. Visual Arts are celebrated through Art Shows and a range of Visual Arts clubs and drawing/sketching activities.
Spanish is taught as a specialist subject, with an emphasis on developing language skills and cultural awareness. The IB framework promotes international-mindedness and appreciation of diverse cultures. UNESCO Group and Kapa Haka are among the cultural opportunities available.
Selwyn House offers a wide range of opportunities and clubs across leadership, STEAM, Visual Arts, Performing Arts, Music, and sport. Notable clubs include Cantamaths, Code Club, Junior Mechatronics, Science Club, Stop Motion Club, Glee Club, Speech & Drama, and numerous music ensembles and sport teams. The Houses and Buddies programmes foster belonging and leadership across year levels.
Envirogroup, UNESCO Group, and Community Problem Solving are among the clubs that support community engagement and global awareness. SHPA (Selwyn House Parents' Association) coordinates events and activities that strengthen relationships among parents, staff and students, including Carnival, Breakfasts, School Disco, and Parents' Quiz Nights. Leadership and service opportunities are embedded in school life, including the Year 8 Leadership Programme.
Year 8 Leadership Programme provides two designated leadership roles across areas such as Sports, STEAM, Library, Music & Performing Arts, Visual Arts, Enviro, PYP & Wellbeing, Language & Culture, House Leadership, Student Ambassadorship, and Communications. Leadership occurs at every stage with age-appropriate responsibilities and opportunities to lead assemblies and major events. The House System and Buddy Programme further promote leadership and peer mentorship across year levels.
Sport is central to life at Selwyn House, with weekly teams and opportunities to represent the school at Zones and the regional level; Athletics Day, Cross Country, Swimming, and a broad Winter and Summer sport offering are provided. Camps & Experiences include Year 4–8 camps and Space Week to foster independence, resilience, and real-world learning. Wellbeing is integrated through the Year 8 Leadership Programme and broader school life.
Selwyn House School is an International Baccalaureate World School delivering the Primary Years Programme from Pre-school to Year 8. It combines a co-educational pre-school with a girls' independent full primary school. The curriculum integrates academics with specialist programmes in STEM, the arts, sports, and leadership development, fostering inquiry-based learning, critical thinking, and a global perspective. The Primary Years Programme uses a Programme of Inquiry organized around six transdisciplinary themes: Who we are; Where we are in time and place; How the world works; How we express ourselves; How we organise ourselves; Sharing the planet. Learning emphasizes small class sizes, personalised support, and a scaffolded approach across year levels, with specialist subjects across the year groups. Founded in 1929, Selwyn House offers a continuum from Pre-school to Year 8. Facilities include a heated pool, Technology Hub, Mechatronics, Food Technology, Visual Arts, Music and Spanish classrooms, library, Performing Arts Centre, and pre-school.
