Boarding at St Cuthbert’s is a vibrant community where over 100 girls from Years 9–13 flourish academically, personally, and socially. Situated at the heart of our campus, our boarding family welcomes both domestic and international students from around New Zealand and the world, creating an environment rich in diversity and friendship.
It’s Home
St Cuthbert’s is located in Epsom, Auckland, one of New Zealand’s most vibrant cities. With healthy, delicious meals prepared daily, access to our on-site gym and sports facilities, and the ability to fully participate in our extensive co-curricular programme, boarders enjoy everything our exceptional and educational campus has to offer.
Our Boarding Houses
Students journey through three distinctive boarding houses – Melrose, Dunblane, and Elgin – as they progress through their senior school years, each designed to meet the unique needs of different year levels. Our older boarders naturally become mentors, helping newer students settle into their boarding journey.
Our Experienced Team
Behind every successful boarding programme is a compassionate and experienced team. Our dedicated staff are available 24/7 to provide support whenever needed. They understand that each student’s boarding journey is unique, providing the individual care and guidance needed for every girl to thrive.
Meet our Head of Boarding
Keryn Wright, our Head of Boarding, brings over 20 years of educational experience as both teacher and leader to create a supportive and enriching environment where students flourish academically, personally, and socially. Her commitment to fostering genuine community is rooted in her belief that boarding creates a space where friendships are built, independence is strengthened, and lifelong memories are created.
Keryn’s approach is guided by the whakataukī “Mā te huruhuru, ka rere te manu” – “With feathers, the bird will fly.” This philosophy recognises that with the right support, knowledge, and opportunities, young people can soar and reach their full potential.
Academic Excellence Through Structure
Our structured prep programme ensures every student has dedicated time and support for homework and assignments. This purposeful approach to evening preparation helps students develop independence while excelling in their studies, supported by staff who understand the balance between academic rigour and wellbeing.
Flexible Boarding Options
We understand that every family’s needs are different. Our boarding options include full boarding for the complete residential experience, with the option of taking leave on weekends; weekly boarding for students who return home on weekends; and flexi boarding for those needing accommodation for sporting commitments, when parents travel, or for a few nights each week.
Dining
The heart of our boarding community beats strongest in our Violet Wood Dining Hall, where shared meals create lasting bonds. Our boarding house staff place a high priority on providing healthy, nourishing, and appetising meals. Students enjoy fresh smoothies from our smoothie bar, summer BBQs in the Melrose House outdoor area, and a wide range of delicious breakfast, lunch and dinner options.
Creating Lifelong Memories
Boarding life extends far beyond the classroom. Our comprehensive programme includes weekly dinners and Chapel Services, weekend activities exploring Auckland, and special traditions like our annual Boarders’ Leavers Dinner. Each term brings exciting on-site and off-site activities, all shared with parents through regular communication to keep families connected to their daughter’s boarding experience.
Throughout the year, our boarding community celebrates diverse cultures and occasions through student-led events. These include international dinners (Japanese, Italian, Pasifika), Chinese New Year, Matariki, Mid-Winter Christmas dinner, Boarders’ Talent Quest, and birthday celebrations. Boarders often dress in theme and enjoy performances, creating a fun and inclusive atmosphere within our boarding community.
Developing Life Skills and Values
Our goal is for each student in boarding is to develop skills that will stand her in good stead throughout her life. We encourage every boarder to develop an understanding of other cultures, respect for others, sound moral values, and leadership skills. Working alongside each family, we support our students to become self-sufficient and confident young women ready to embrace their futures with purpose and resilience.