New Zealand School Facts

New Zealand has over 2,000 primary and secondary schools. State schools and state integrated schools are primary funded by central government. Private schools receive a lower level of state funding (about 25% of their costs).

Primary schools

There are many primary schools in New Zealand; state-funded, private, independent and boarding.

It is recommended you choose a good school for your children by seeking and gather information on the school you intend to apply for your children.

There are many websites you are able to look up to; compare them, and it is best to consult the schools yourself so as to ensure it is qualified and meet you and your children’s needs.


Secondary schools

Secondary schools are mostly government funded, but there are some private or integrated schools, and they are mostly self-funded.

International students mostly enrol to study in the senior secondary school; years 11, 12 and 13, aged 15-18 years in preparation for tertiary studies in New Zealand or in other English-speaking countries.


Intermediate schools

In New Zealand, middle school is called intermediate, for year seven and eight.  

Universities

There are eight government-funded universities providing undergraduate and postgraduate degree programmes.

Some also offer foundation programmes. Whilst all offer a broad range of degree subjects, each university has its own specialised courses.


Types of School

School is compulsory in New Zealand between the ages of 6 and 16. Highly regarded government-funded education is called state school where the majority of the students attended.

New Zealand schools are divided into government funded or state schools, independent, private and boarding schools. The quality of education is monitored by the government agency called Education Review Officer.


Government-funded or State schools

Attended by majority of the students, and rated well by OECD standards.

The government ensures children attend the school closest to where they live, but some school facilities have an enrolment scheme to prevent overcrowding.    


Independent school

There are forty-three innovative and successful independent schools, educating over 25,000 young students each year; ranging from pre-school to year 13.

Independent schools are partly government funded. There are types of independent schools; independent boarding schools, independent private schools and independent both private and boarding schools.

For information and choice of your children’s schools, contact one of our counsellors.