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St Margaret's College

New Zealand, Christchurch

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Parent Experience

Community, involvement and what it's like to be a parent at this school

History

St Margaret's College was founded in 1910 through the energy, faith and determination of Bishop Julius, who convinced the Diocese of the need to establish a school for girls. The College opened at 28 Armagh Street in 1910, with Sister Blanche as the first Sister in Charge. In 1914, St Margaret's opened at Cranmer Square and the school motto Beate Mundo Corde was adopted. Chapel life reflects the Anglican foundation of the community, led by the College Chaplain.

Community

The College offers a truly balanced education that prepares girls to step out with confidence and ensures each girl is valued, connected and empowered. Positive relationships and holistic wellbeing underpin the learning community, with Chapel Life at the heart of the Anglican foundation. There are more than 80 co-curricular activities spanning arts, culture, service, sport and technology. News and SMC Connect keep the community informed and connected with events and with a network of parents, alumnae and supporters.

Parent-Teacher Association

The Parent-Teachers Association (PTA) was formed on 14 August 1940. The school connects with families through parent events. Regional community events are hosted around New Zealand to connect boarding families with their home communities. Parents and Friends Association breakfasts are organized by the Parents and Friends Association to bring families together with guest speakers. A boarding newsletter provides updates about boarding life and important dates. Staff communicate with boarding families to support ongoing partnership between the College and home.

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English
Fees NZ$18,850 - 31,490
Ages 2 - 18 years
Pupil numbers 842
Type Girls School, Girls School (boarding)
Opened 1910
Bus Service No

St Margaret's College is an all‑girls, day and boarding school in New Zealand offering a dual academic pathway of NCEA or the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. The college serves girls from age 2 to 18, with a foundation Year 11 that prepares for NCEA Levels 2–3 and the IBDP, and a broad programme supported by the Leck Centre for Learning Enhancement. As an IB World School, it delivers the Diploma Programme core—Theory of Knowledge, Extended Essay and Creativity, Activity and Service—alongside subject groups across languages, individuals and societies, mathematics, arts and sciences. Facilities include the Centre for Innovation with coding, robotics, 3D printing and laser cutting; a Library & Study Centre; and purpose‑built arts and performance spaces. The campus underwent an 80% rebuild after the Canterbury earthquakes, and features extensive sports facilities, a heated pool, on‑site health, chaplaincy, and a strong boarding community. Results and traditions underpin a whānau‑centred education.

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