Our friendly Admissions team will guide you through our application process, from getting to know St Cuthbert’s to applying for a place. When you are ready to apply you can complete our online application form.
Start Your Remarkable Life
The choices we make today shape our future. That’s why, at St Cuthbert’s, we do everything we can to prepare you for the life you choose to create. For the friendships you’ll hold close, and the friend you strive to be. For the career you’ll pursue, and your drive to excel. For the citizen you’ll become and your confidence to always stand up for what’s right.
When you choose St Cuthbert’s, you know you’re choosing an aspirational and supportive environment, outstanding teachers, and an inspiring variety of co-curricular opportunities to support you to find your personal strengths.
But you’re also choosing a lifetime of nurturing your curiosity, ideas and imagination. A lifetime of self-belief, ambition and unleashed potential. A lifetime of belonging to a community that will always support you. And a lifetime of becoming everything you can be.
A remarkable life is yours to create…
Enrolment process/steps
Step 01: Submit Your Application
We recommend submitting your application approximately 18 months before your daughter’s intended entry year. Please note that due to the high volume of applications, not all students will be granted an interview or a place at the College. Some applicants may be placed in a wait pool as we review available spaces.
To apply, simply complete the online application form. A non-refundable application fee of NZ$320 (including GST) is required, payable by credit card. If the applicant is the daughter of a St Cuthbert’s Old Girl, this fee is waived.
Along with the form, please upload the following documents:
- If the applicant has any special learning needs, please include copies of relevant educational assessments.
- If the applicant has any special learning needs, please include copies of relevant educational assessments.
- The photo page of the applicant’s passport or a NZ birth certificate.
- For non-NZ passport holders, a copy of the applicant’s visa (if applicable).
- A recent head and shoulders photo of the applicant.
- The most recent school report.
- A written letter of reference (e.g., from a family friend or colleague). If you don’t have this at the time of application, you can provide it later.
- If the applicant has any special learning needs, please include copies of relevant educational assessments.
Step 02: Creating Connection and Belonging
Around 12 months before your daughter’s entry year, our Admissions Team will contact you to request additional supporting documentation.
Step 03: Embracing Failure as Growth
Once your application is reviewed, you may be considered for an interview. This relaxed, informal 30-minute interview allows us to learn more about your child and for your family to get to know St Cuthbert’s. Interviews are typically held during Terms 1, 2, and 3 of the year prior to entry.
We consider several factors during our selection process, including:
- Affiliation to St Cuthbert’s through current or past siblings, or as daughters/granddaughters of St Cuthbert’s Alumnae as well as family connections (e.g., aunt, cousin).
- Involvement in co-curricular activities such as sports, arts, and leadership roles. We also assess academic achievement, with a focus on the key competencies outlined in the New Zealand curriculum, ensuring a well-rounded and balanced approach to each student’s development.
- Year 0–1 applicants, we kindly request a Student Information document to be completed from your child’s Early Learning Centre.
We are looking for students and families who share our values and understand that the journey at St Cuthbert’s is a partnership between the school, the student, and the family. Together, we aim to create a positive and supportive community where everyone can thrive.
Important: We encourage families to share full and transparent information regarding any circumstances that may affect their child’s learning. By doing so, we can ensure that the appropriate support is in place to help your child thrive.
Step 04: Preparing for Tomorrow’s World
We will contact you with the outcome of your interview and aim to confirm your child’s place in a timely manner. If your daughter is selected, we will offer her a place in writing. You will have up to two weeks to accept the offer. To confirm your commitment, a non-refundable acceptance fee of NZ$2,480 is required upon acceptance.
Applications for 2027 are filling fast; please contact our admissions team. Applications for 2028 are now open.
Get to know our Admissions Team
Head of Admissions Stacey Paterson
With a Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood and Secondary Teaching, Stacey brings over a decade of experience in education. She has taught across both NCEA and the IB Diploma. Stacey is passionate about supporting families throughout their journey, ensuring they feel confident and well-informed that St Cuthbert’s is the right place for their daughter. If you have any questions please contact Stacey Paterson at admissions@stcuthberts.school.nz or phone +64 9 520 4159
Brenda Crean
As Deputy Head of Admissions, Brenda ensures a smooth admissions process for Years 8–13 and manages the school’s scholarship programme. Brenda is dedicated to exceptional customer service, helping prospective families find the right fit for their daughter. If you have a scholarship query please contact Brenda at scholarships@stcuthberts.school.nz or phone +64 9 940 9157.
Anne-Marie Gillard
Anne-Marie Gillard is the Admissions and International Manager at St Cuthbert’s, overseeing the Junior School (Years 0–6), Year 7, and supporting international students. Anne-Marie is dedicated to helping families choose the right school for their daughter, ensuring a smooth transition into the St Cuthbert’s community. For international student inquiries, contact Anne-Marie at amg@stcuthberts.school.nz or +64 9 940 9156
Questions and Answers
Does my daughter need to be a top academic student to apply?
No, we believe in fostering a diverse cohort with a wide range of skills, interests, and abilities. We value students who show a passion for learning and will thrive in a supportive, collaborative environment. When considering applications, we look at the entire cohort, taking into account the skills, interests, and mix of students within the year group. We aim for a balanced and diverse community, rather than focusing on any one particular group of students.
What is the process if my child has special learning needs?
At St Cuthbert’s, we are committed to providing the highest level of care and education to all students, including those with learning needs. We carefully assess each child’s individual needs and consider our current staffing and resources to ensure we can offer the appropriate support. Depending on the specific requirements, there may be times when we are unable to provide the level of specialised support that your child may need. If this is the case, we will work closely with you to explore the best options for your child’s education.
How does your school cater for students who are working well above their curriculum level?
At St Cuthbert’s, we recognise and celebrate the diverse strengths of students who are working above their curriculum level. We provide a variety of enrichment opportunities designed to challenge and engage these students, ensuring they continue to develop their full potential. This may include advanced learning programs, tailored projects, or opportunities to work with specialists in their areas of interest. Our aim is to foster an environment where all students are supported, challenged, and encouraged to grow in their academic journey.
What is the process for international students?
We warmly welcome international students from a diverse range of countries. Currently, we have students from China, the Pacific Islands, Korea and Thailand. If you’re applying as an international student, please ensure you submit the required visa documentation and demonstrate proficiency in the English language. For more information, please visit our International Students page.
How can I find out more about St Cuthbert’s culture and values?
To learn more about St Cuthbert’s culture and values, we invite you to explore our website, where you can gain insights into what makes our school community special. We also encourage you to attend one of our Open Days, where you can meet staff, students, and explore our facilities firsthand. For more detailed information, our Admissions Team is always available to answer any questions and provide further insights into our values and community. Visit the Our Values page for more information.
Why a Girls’ School?
At St Cuthbert’s, we believe in the unique advantages of an all-girls education, where girls are empowered to thrive in an environment that recognises and nurtures their individual strengths. Specialist teachers understand that girls are often more considered and self-conscious in their learning, and they tailor their approach to provide the support needed for each student to flourish.
Girls’ schools also offer the freedom to explore, experiment, and give anything a go without the fear of failure or embarrassment. This builds resilience and independence, essential skills for lifelong success. Finally, the strong sense of belonging in an all-girls school creates lasting friendships and deeper bonds, as girls navigate their academic and personal journeys together, supporting each other every step of the way.
To learn more about the unique benefits of a girls’ education at St Cuthbert’s, visit our Why an All-Girls School page.
Do you have a scholarship programme?
Yes, St Cuthbert’s offers a scholarship programme with a variety of opportunities designed to support and inspire students. To learn more about the available scholarships and the application process, please visit our Scholarships page.