An Anglican education for boys of character, aspiration, and excellence.
At College, we have a proud tradition, a clear purpose, and a commitment to supporting every boy in realising his full potential.
Nau mai haere mai A very warm welcome to Christ’s College. W e are New Zealand’s only independent school for boys from Years 9 to 13. We celebrate boys and teach in ways they learn best. We enjoy their energy, humour, ideas, and zest for life. At College, we have a proud tradition, a clear purpose, and a commitment to supporting every boy in realising his full potential. Our guiding vision is captured in our mission: ‘Each boy at his best.’ We are renowned not only for the strength of our academic programme but also for the richness of our cultural, sporting, and co-curricular opportunities. These experiences create an environment where young men can discover their passions, build character, and develop the skills and attributes they need to thrive in the world beyond our gates. With effort and commitment, each boy will find his College years both challenging and deeply rewarding, shaping his future as a confident, compassionate, and self-aware young man, well-prepared to contribute positively to society. We look forward to walking alongside you and your son in the years ahead.
Joe Eccleton Headmaster
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We encourage our students to aspire to live a virtuous life, to cultivate good character and work habits, make good choices, and strive for excellence in everything they do.
A history of excellence E stablished in 1850, Christ’s College is an Anglican school founded on Christian principles. Its history is inextricably linked with the foundation and settlement of Christchurch and the Canterbury region. Our school moved to its present site in 1856, putting down roots in the central city to grow and develop, and build an exceptional learning environment. Today, we are proud stewards of our remarkable heritage and traditions while, most importantly, looking to the future. We deliver a multi-faceted and inspirational educational experience, designed to guide our boys as they transition through adolescence and become young men, ready to set out and embrace a world of opportunities. Our purpose and virtues OUR VISION – MATAWHĀNUI Christ’s College will be a vibrant school community that educates boys to be men of virtuous character who make a positive contribution to society. MISSION – WHAKATAKANGA Each boy at his best. Mā te ahurei o te rangatahi, ka arahi i o matou mahi – ‘Let the uniqueness of the student guide our work.’ OUR MOTTO – WHAKAPEPEHA Bene tradita, bene servanda ‘Good traditions, well maintained’ OUR VIRTUES – NGĀKAU MATATIKA Our seven core Christian virtues underpin all aspects of College life. Honesty | Pono Being truthful and sincere in words and actions Spirituality | Wairuatanga Appreciating that in seeking a fullness of life, we need to look beyond our material needs and wants Compassion | Ngākau aroha Being generous towards those less fortunate than ourselves Learning | Ngā akoranga Striving to become independent, lifelong learners, and recognising the right of others to learn Respect | Ngākau whakamiha Cultivating an attitude of respect, for ourselves, for others and for our school and community Stewardship | Kaitiakitanga Recognising the good we have received from the past so that it may be preserved or enhanced Justice | Manatika Accepting people’s differences and being fair in all our dealings with others
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The hallmarks of a Christ’s College education F amilies who choose Christ’s College do so with care and intention. They are drawn to a school that places learning at its centre, sets high expectations, and educates boys within a framework of strong values. Tradition matters here, not as something fixed, but as a foundation that continues to shape how boys are educated today. They seek an environment that balances challenge with support, fosters belonging, and where character is formed through daily experience. Over time, certain defining features of a Christ’s College education become clear. EXCEPTIONAL TEACHING Our teachers are our greatest strength. They care deeply about their subjects and about the boys they teach. Curiosity is encouraged, thinking is challenged, and boys are supported to aim higher. ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE High standards are expected and pursued. Boys are encouraged to think carefully, work independently, and take pride in their progress, supported by a curriculum that prepares them well for future pathways. A BALANCED EDUCATION Academic study is complemented by sport, the arts, service, and leadership. This breadth allows boys to develop confidence, resilience, and a wider understanding of their own capabilities. VALUES AND CHARACTER Anglican values inform daily life at College. They shape expectations, guide relationships, and provide a clear moral framework within which boys learn and grow. RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENT The College provides an environment that supports learning and wellbeing, combining heritage spaces with modern facilities and a strong sense of place.
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The College experience W hat defines Christ’s College is seen in everyday practice. It is evident in classrooms, within Houses, and through shared experiences that have been part of College life for generations. A CULTURE OF ASPIRATION Boys are expected to work hard and to aim high. Effort is noticed, progress is monitored, and improvement is valued. Success is earned. TEACHERS WHO KNOW BOYS WELL Small class sizes allow teachers to work closely with students. This leads to honest feedback, timely support, and learning that responds to individual needs. PERSONALISED BY DESIGN Structures within College help ensure boys are known. Academic guidance and pastoral care work together to support steady progress and help boys take ownership of their development. BELONGING THROUGH THE HOUSE SYSTEM The House system is central to College life. It provides identity, care, and opportunity. Within their Houses, boys form strong connections and learn the
importance of contribution. A LIVING TRADITION
Christ’s College is shaped by its past, but it is not bound by it. Tradition provides continuity and meaning, while College continues to adapt to meet the needs of today’s boys.
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A campus shaped by history T he Christ’s College campus is one of the most distinctive educational settings in New Zealand. Located in the heart of Christchurch, it is defined by historic buildings of national significance alongside modern facilities that support contemporary teaching, learning, and sport. Together, these spaces reflect College itself: shaped by tradition and focused on what lies ahead. At the centre of the campus stands the Chapel, built in 1867 and long regarded as the heart of Christ’s College. It remains a place of reflection, gathering, and shared experience. Nearby, Big School, built in 1863 and now home to the College Library, is the oldest educational building still in continuous use in New Zealand. The Dining Hall, designed by Cecil Wood and completed in 1925, is one of the most recognisable buildings on campus. Its Gothic and Tudor influences, stone exterior, and richly detailed interior continue to shape daily College life, bringing boys together at the start and end of each day.
Alongside these historic spaces sit modern facilities that support the needs of today’s students. The Miles Warren Building, named after the distinguished Old Boy architect, provides contemporary teaching spaces and community areas within an award-winning design. Upper West, College’s multi-purpose sports centre, includes indoor courts, fitness and training facilities, and teaching spaces, serving both College and the wider community. Beyond the buildings themselves, the campus offers open spaces that are integral to College’s identity. Upper, with its world-class turf, has hosted generations of College sports and remains a focal point of school life. These spaces shape daily routines and shared experiences, fostering a sense of belonging that remains central to life at College.
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Wellbeing | Hauora A t Christ's College, we strive to ensure that each boy feels safe, respected, and valued, and that he has a strong sense of belonging. Our pastoral care is supported by comprehensive wellbeing programmes designed specifically for boys and is guided by a preventive, holistic approach grounded in the principles of wellbeing | hauora. These principles recognise the importance of physical wellbeing | taha tinana, social wellbeing | taha whānau, mental and emotional wellbeing | taha hinengaro, and spiritual wellbeing | taha wairua. Our pastoral care feeds into every school strand, informing how boys are supported across Houses, classrooms, sport, and co-curricular life. Through this integrated approach, we are committed to educating and inspiring each boy to face challenges with confidence and to aim high. Our foundations B iculturalism, Christianity, and Positive Psychology are at the centre of our health and wellbeing philosophy. These form the foundation of our targeted programmes for boys, staff, and community. BICULTURALISM In the traditional Māori worldview, everything and everybody – the land, the people, the sky, the oceans, flora, and fauna – are connected. The essential elements of the Māori sense of wellbeing are feeling connected to place, knowing your purpose and knowing your holistic self. CHRISTIANITY Wellbeing in the Christian tradition encompasses each person living in peace in all relationships – with God, with self, with others, and with nature. POSITIVE PSYCHOLOGY Positive Psychology is founded on the belief that people want to lead meaningful and fulfilling lives, to cultivate what is best within themselves and to enhance their experiences of life, love, and social connection.
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Faith-based education A t Christ’s College, the Anglican tradition shapes a shared way of living and learning. The Chapel stands at the heart of College, as it has for generations. Here, we come together in community for reflection, prayer, and song. Students come from many different faiths and none. We are inclusive of difference and focus on our common relationships, inspired by the Christian tradition and the example of Jesus Christ. Chapel and worship are integral to the shared rhythm of College life. All boys participate in Chapel services on Monday and Friday mornings, congregational singing practice (Congers) on Wednesdays, and at least two Sunday services per term, culminating in our traditional Christmas celebrations. Religious Education focuses mainly on Christianity, while also exploring the world’s other great religions and introducing students to the fundamentals of philosophy and ethics.
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Centre for Ethics & Spirituality
O ur Centre for Ethics & Spirituality aims to start a conversation, asking us to consider and discuss some of the big questions in life. Guest speakers present on a wide range of topics, designed to enhance our understanding of the wider world and open doors to greater engagement, both nationally and globally.
Life in the House F rom their first day, each boy becomes a valued member of a House community. With seven dayboy houses (Condell's, Corfe, Harper, Jacobs, Julius, Rolleston, and Somes) and three boarding houses (Flower's, Richards, and School), every boy belongs to a smaller group within College where strong connections are formed. Each House has its own character, fostering a sense of identity, loyalty, and shared purpose that underpins daily life at College. Housemasters and dedicated House staff provide consistent pastoral care and guidance across all aspects of College life. They take a close interest in each boy’s wellbeing and progress, offering support with goal setting, learning, and personal development. This continuity ensures that boys are known well and supported over time. Leadership and participation are central to House life. Student leaders play an important role in shaping House culture, while interhouse competitions encourage involvement and contribution from every boy. From House Music and House Plays to the Kapa Haka Competition and Athletics Day, boys are given opportunities to represent their House and take pride in collective achievement. Through shared experience and tradition, the House becomes a lasting source of identity. It fosters pride, loyalty, and a strong sense of belonging that remains an important part of a boy’s life during his years at College and beyond.
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Boarding at College B oarders have been integral to our College community for more than 100 years, adding to the special character of our school. Our three boarding houses – Flower’s, Richards, and School – are core to our College legacy, having been home to outstanding sportsmen, leading figures in the arts, government ministers, renowned business, legal, and medical leaders, and New Zealand’s most honoured war hero. In each House, we provide a welcoming, warm, secure, and caring home away from home. It is a special place where boys grow and develop academically, socially, physically, morally, spiritually, and emotionally. Our boarders have full access to our range of impressive facilities and a wealth of support and knowledge provided by House staff, encouraging boys to flourish and step into leadership roles as they move through their years. Boarding structure E ach boarding House is led by a dedicated Housemaster, supported by the Deputy Housemaster, the Day Matron and Assistant to the Housemaster, and the Overnight Nurse. All Houses also utilise a highly qualified network of staff mentors to deliver pastoral care in unison with the House leadership team. Each boy is assigned a staff mentor and placed in a horizontal mentor group within the House, meaning the group is composed exclusively of students from the same year. A boy remains with the same staff mentor during his years in the House, securing a strong, supportive connection. Weekly meetings and student development support academic and personal aspirations. In a collaborative approach across five years at College, the House staff guide each boy and help to advance a student’s academic, co-curricular, and sports aspirations.
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Aspirational achievement
A cademic achievement at Christ’s College is built on high expectations, strong teaching, and structured support. At every year level, boys are guided to set clear academic goals and to take responsibility for their learning, supported by programmes designed to challenge and extend them. Over time, this approach shapes how boys think about learning itself. The Christ’s College graduate is reflective, self-directed, and able to respond thoughtfully when learning becomes demanding. He approaches new challenges with confidence and continues to engage purposefully with study, work, and life beyond school. ACADEMIC RIGOUR Christ’s College is committed to being the leading academic boys’ school in New Zealand. Our curriculum is challenging, broad, and future-focused, supported by exceptional teaching and innovative practice. Highly qualified and passionate teachers, small class sizes, and outstanding facilities – complemented by dedicated pastoral care and a wide range of co- curricular opportunities – create an environment that challenges, motivates, and supports boys to achieve their best. Each boy is guided to succeed academically and to reach new heights across sport and co-curricular life, supported by tailored teaching, mentors, and specialist educators who instil a strong sense of academic purpose. CLASSROOM ENVIRONMENT Small class sizes open the door to academic achievement. Leading educators support a focused curriculum, ensuring that each boy can truly achieve. Our teachers create an inspirational and personalised learning pathway for our boys. College also caters for a range of capabilities as we unite to help every boy reach his full potential. Our Learning Centre provides support in a nurturing environment, while our Advanced Learning programme ensures extension for those boys seeking more challenges. CENTRE FOR TEACHING EXCELLENCE & RESEARCH The Centre for Teaching Excellence & Research continues to elevate teaching and learning at Christ’s College. Through coaching, mentoring, and a focus on best practice in boys’ education, the Centre empowers teachers to refine their craft and deliver high-quality, engaging learning programmes.
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Beyond the classroom
Sport S port is a defining part of life at Christ’s College. Participation is expected, and performance is pursued with purpose. Our programmes are structured to support boys at every level, while providing clear pathways for those with the ability and commitment to compete at the highest levels. Development sits behind performance. Strength and conditioning, sport- specific coaching, and specialist support enable boys to train well and compete consistently. Many go on to represent their region and New Zealand, and to achieve success across national and international competitions. Christ’s College works with leading coaches, many with experience at the highest levels of the game. Boys are encouraged to commit fully, whether representing College in premier teams or competing through interhouse sport. College has been recognised as a top-ranked school for sport in New Zealand. This success reflects both the breadth of opportunity available and a long- standing commitment to excellence, discipline, and fair competition across all levels of play.
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Performing arts DRAMA
Drama at Christ’s College offers boys a wide range of opportunities, both on stage and behind the scenes. From performance and technical work to directing, writing, and production, there is a role for every boy. Productions span classical and contemporary works, from Shakespeare to large-scale musicals, alongside Theatresports, House Plays, and Speech and Drama. For many, College has been the first stage in distinguished careers across the performing arts. Boys regularly perform at a national level, including the Sheilah Winn National Shakespeare Festival and National Theatresports, and take part in local productions with The Court Theatre and Showbiz. Purpose-built facilities, including the Old Boys’ Theatre and the College auditorium, support both intimate performances and annual junior and senior productions. MUSIC The Music School supports a diverse community of musicians through individual tuition, ensembles, and performance opportunities. Boys perform regularly through College concerts and competitions, and many progress to regional and national ensembles, including the New Zealand Secondary Schools Symphony Orchestra. Performance opportunities range from orchestral and chamber music to contemporary groups, and national competitions such as Rockquest and Southern Jam. Visiting artists and masterclasses further extend the programme. CHOIR Choral music is an important part of life at Christ’s College. Boys are encouraged to audition for the Chapel Choir, with about 100 students involved each year from across College. In an all-boys school, this level of participation reflects the strength of the programme and the place of choral singing within College life. The Chapel Choir is a liturgical choir, leading music in Chapel services and performing regularly at College events and at The Big Sing competition. Alongside this choir, Schola Cantorum is a smaller ensemble based in the College Chapel, focused on high-quality vocal performance.
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Centre for Character & Leadership, and Service A t Christ’s College, character is formed through expectation and action. The Centre for Character & Leadership, and Service supports boys to develop sound judgement, a sense of responsibility, and an understanding of their obligation to others. Through its programmes, boys gain practical life skills and a clear framework for acting with integrity, preparing them to contribute positively to their communities, both during their time at College and well beyond the gates. IMMERSE & INSPIRE All Year 10 boys take part in Immerse & Inspire, a four-week residential programme that places students in a boarding environment and challenges them beyond the classroom. Working with the Boyle River Outdoor Education Centre, boys also complete the Bronze Adventurous Journey component of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Hillary Award. THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH’S HILLARY AWARD The Duke of Edinburgh’s Hillary Award focuses on challenging young people to be the best they can be, to discover and build on their strengths and interests through service, skills, physical recreation, and adventurous journeys. It is a well-established and widely supported part of College life. Christ’s College has one of the highest participation rates in the country. Each year, more than 100 boys complete the Bronze Award, with strong progression through to Silver and Gold. Every boy is given the opportunity to be involved, and service is a required component at each level of the award. Through sustained involvement, boys gain a clear understanding of the value of service and the commitment required.
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Being of service U nderlining three of College’s virtues – compassion, respect, and justice – our graduates have a disposition to serve, with a willingness to selflessly help and do work for others, the community, and the environment. At College, service and philanthropy are intertwined. At various stages, boys can offer their time, talent, and effort in service of others. These experiences are designed to be practical and sustained, helping boys to understand the impact of service and its place within a life of purpose. Service remains an integral part of College life and our community. In becoming a member of the College whānau, each boy commits to being of service to others. The opportunities include: DUKE OF EDINBURGH’S HILLARY AWARD The Duke of Edinburgh’s Hillary Award, with College leading one of the most engaged programmes in the country. YEAR 10 SERVICE WEEK Year 10 Service Week, working with community and environmental organisations HOUSE CHARITIES House charities, through long-standing partnerships and fundraising SERVICE INITIATIVES Student-led service initiatives, including Eco-Action COLLEGE DIPLOMA The College Diploma, which requires service at each level SONY CAMP Sony Camp, where senior boys provide residential respite care for children with disabilities
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Global outlook ROUND SQUARE
Christ’s College is a member of Round Square, a worldwide network of schools committed to international understanding. Through this connection, boys engage with global programmes, conferences, exchanges, and collaborative projects that extend learning beyond New Zealand. Participation is largely student-led, with Senior and Junior Round Square committees helping to shape initiatives guided by the Round Square IDEALS of Internationalism, Democracy, Environment, Adventure, Leadership, and Service, which align closely with College’s own values.
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EXCHANGE OPPORTUNITIES Christ’s College offers a well-established student exchange programme that broadens boys’ perspectives and enriches College life. Exchanges are fully reciprocal, with boys who travel overseas also hosting visiting students, either at College or in their homes. This model brings different cultures and experiences directly into the school community. Exchange partnerships include schools in Hong Kong, South Africa, Australia, and the United States, allowing boys to experience different educational settings while welcoming international students into daily life at Christ’s College. Language exchanges are also offered for Japan and France.
The College graduate A Christ’s College education is measured not only by achievement, but by the character of the young men who walk through our gates for a final time. Through their time at College, boys are shaped by expectation, experience, and example. The attributes that follow reflect the qualities we believe enable a Christ’s College graduate to flourish. COMPASSION & EMPATHY The action of caring and concern for the suffering and misfortune of others, and the ability to understand, share and respond to the feelings of others. COURAGE & RESILIENCE Having the mental and moral strength to venture, persevere, withstand danger and confront fear or difficulty, combined with the ability and capacity to respond positively to setbacks and adapt to changing circumstances. ENTERPRISE & CURIOSITY A readiness or daring to engage in a project or undertaking that is especially difficult, complicated, or risky, and a strong desire to understand and learn something new. CONFIDENCE & HUMILITY Possessing an optimistic perspective and certainty of purpose, balanced by a modest sense of self-importance. SELF-AWARENESS A conscious knowledge of personal character, strengths, weaknesses, abilities, beliefs and emotions, enabling adaptability and flexibility in response to change. PERSONAL EXCELLENCE The ongoing desire of the individual to develop and empower their character, gifts, talents and relationships to the fullest, achieving a harmony in how they think, feel, believe and behave. INTERPERSONAL SKILLS The ability to communicate or interact positively and meaningfully with others and to present oneself with appropriate manners and regard. A DISPOSITION TO SERVE A willingness to selflessly help and do work for the benefit of others, the community and the environment. CAPACITY TO LEAD & FOLLOW The ability to influence and initiate by action or example, balanced by the understanding of when to be guided, to conform, to heed or to observe. GLOBAL & BICULTURAL COMPETENCE The knowledge, skills and open-mindedness necessary to navigate and engage with today's interconnected world – both in a global and a bicultural New Zealand context.
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Connected for life C hrist’s College is sustained by a strong and generous community. It is made up of people who share a deep connection to College, whether they are first or fifth-generation Old Boys, current and past parents, grandparents, staff, partners, sponsors, or suppliers. What unites them is a shared affection for the school and a belief in what it stands for. Throughout the year, College brings its community together to mark important moments and celebrate that sense of belonging. These occasions are part of the rhythm of College life and offer opportunities to reconnect, reflect, and take pride in the traditions we share. From Grandparents’ Day and the Anzac Day service, to Carols at Christmas, House Music, reunions, and the annual Christ’s College versus Christchurch Boys’ High School rugby match, College opens its gates and welcomes all who feel part of its story. These gatherings strengthen relationships across generations and deepen the connection people feel to College. They remind us that Christ’s College is more than a school. It is a community built on shared experience, enduring relationships, and a common commitment to the values that continue to shape school life.
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Your son’s journey starts here
C hoosing a secondary school is an important decision, and we encourage families to take the time to experience Christ’s College for themselves. Understanding a school’s culture, expectations, and daily life is often best gained through seeing it in practice and speaking with those who know it well. Families are warmly invited to attend an Open Day, arrange a personal tour, or meet members of the College community to learn more about our academic programme, pastoral care, boarding, and co-curricular life. Our enrolments team is available to guide families through each stage of the process and answer any questions along the way. We welcome enquiries from families considering entry at Year 9 and other year levels, including boarding and international placements. Further information, key dates, and application details are available on our website or through the Enrolments Office at admissions@christscollege.com.
We look forward to welcoming you to Christ’s College.
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Contact us
03 366 8705 admissions@christscollege.com www.christscollege.com
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