About Whanganui High School

Nestled in the heart of Whanganui city, Whanganui High School is a vibrant co-educational secondary school offering a dynamic and future-focused learning environment. Serving students from Year 9 to Year 13, the school prides itself on being inclusive, innovative, and deeply connected to its community and culture.

Established in 1958, Whanganui High School has become a respected educational institution with a reputation for academic excellence, holistic development, and cultural inclusivity. With a strong foundation rooted in the values of integrity, learning, fellowship, and excellence, the school inspires students to thrive and succeed in all aspects of life.

Our Strengths

Whanganui High School is known for its well-rounded approach to education. Students are nurtured not only academically, but also in their emotional, physical, and cultural well-being. This balanced education model supports the school’s commitment to student well-being and hauora (well-being).

The school’s strengths lie in its ability to foster student engagement through inclusive teaching, positive relationships, and a safe, respectful environment. With a robust guidance structure and a dedicated team of school staff, students are empowered to reach their full potential.

Academic Excellence

Academic excellence is the cornerstone of Whanganui High School. The school follows the New Zealand curriculum, ensuring that students gain the knowledge, skills, and values needed to succeed in today’s world. The school offers the National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA), providing a clear and measurable path for academic success.

The school’s dedicated teaching staff continuously refine their practices, ensuring that learning is student-centered, engaging, and future-ready. Continuous assessment, targeted support, and innovative teaching methods contribute to consistently high levels of achievement, especially for those preparing for tertiary study and beyond.

Promotion of the Arts

Creativity thrives at Whanganui High School. Students are encouraged to express themselves through music, drama, visual arts, and dance. The school promotes the arts not just as subjects but as powerful tools for communication, cultural expression, and personal growth.

From school productions to regional competitions, Whanganui High School’s commitment to arts promotion is evident in the talent and passion of its students.

Recreational and Sporting Opportunities

Whanganui High School offers a diverse range of sporting opportunities to encourage physical fitness, teamwork, and leadership. With modern facilities and expert coaching, students can participate in a variety of sports including rugby, netball, basketball, athletics, and more.

The school supports students in balancing their academic responsibilities with sporting achievements. Many students go on to represent the region and even the nation, bringing pride to both their families and the school community.

Safe and Caring Environment

Creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment is a top priority. Whanganui High School promotes a culture of respect, kindness, and responsibility.

Initiatives focused on attendance improvement, behavior management, and peer support help maintain a positive school culture. The Board of Trustees, alongside school staff and students, actively work to ensure that every student feels seen, heard, and valued.

School Profile Report

The Education Review Office (ERO) conducted a comprehensive evaluation of Whanganui High School through the Te Ara Huarau approach. This report highlights the school’s ongoing commitment to improvement and excellence.

The ERO report recognizes Whanganui High School’s strategic priorities and efforts in creating equitable and inclusive learning outcomes. It praises the school’s commitment to fostering educational success for Māori learners and those needing additional support.

Context

Whanganui High School operates within a unique cultural and social context. As a school that actively partners with Te Āti Haunui-a-Pāpārangi, the local iwi, it emphasizes the value of Māori culture, kawa, and tikanga in everyday learning.

This cultural grounding enriches students’ experiences and ensures that Mātauranga Māori is meaningfully integrated into the curriculum. Students develop a sense of identity, pride, and belonging—critical foundations for lifelong success.

Strategic Priorities

Strategic priorities at Whanganui High School include enhancing student achievement, promoting inclusion, and embedding culturally responsive practices. These priorities guide every decision the school makes.

The school leadership and Board of Trustees actively pursue innovation, engagement, and equity. Whether through academic programming or Alternative Education provision, the school remains committed to meeting the diverse needs of its learners.

Evaluation Focus

The school’s evaluation focus is centered on improving student outcomes through continuous review and refinement of teaching practices. Teachers use data-driven insights to personalize learning and provide timely interventions.

Whanganui High School maintains a strong partnership with the New Zealand Ministry of Education and uses the ERO’s guidance to further its vision. Staff professional development and community engagement are essential components of this ongoing improvement process.

Strengths

Among the school’s greatest strengths are its culture of care, highly qualified staff, and inclusive practices. Students are challenged to think critically, act ethically, and contribute positively to their communities.

The school celebrates diversity and ensures that students of all backgrounds feel empowered to succeed. Its close ties with families and community organizations enhance support for learners and foster a shared sense of purpose.

Next Steps

Looking ahead, Whanganui High School is focused on deepening. Its engagement with students and families. Expanding digital learning opportunities, and strengthening its ties with local iwi and community partners.

Future developments include enhancing the integration of Mātauranga Māori, supporting transitions between school levels, and aligning curriculum offerings with student interests and career pathways. The school’s vision is clear: to provide every student with the tools and opportunities to live a rich, fulfilling life.

Conclusion

Whanganui High School stands as a beacon of excellence, equity, and opportunity in New Zealand’s education landscape. With its unwavering commitment to academic success, cultural identity, and student well-being, the school continues to shape confident, capable, and compassionate leaders of tomorrow.

It’s not just a place of education—it’s a place of transformation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What year levels does Whanganui High School cater to?
Whanganui High School provides education for students from Year 9 to Year 13.

2. What qualifications do students work towards?
Students work towards the National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA), New Zealand’s national qualification for secondary school students.

3. Is Whanganui High School a co-educational school?
Yes, it is a co-educational secondary school welcoming both male and female students.

4. How does the school support Māori students?
The school partners with Te Āti Haunui-a-Pāpārangi and integrates Mātauranga Māori, kawa, and tikanga into the curriculum to support Māori student success.

5. What support systems are in place for student well-being?
Whanganui High School has a strong pastoral care system and guidance structure to ensure student well-being and emotional support.

6. What extracurricular activities are available?
Students can participate in a wide range of arts, sports, leadership, and cultural activities, helping them develop new skills and interests.

7. How does the school promote academic excellence?
Through high-quality teaching, continuous assessment, and targeted learning support, Whanganui High School ensures strong academic outcomes for all students.

8. What is the role of the Board of Trustees?
The Board of Trustees governs the school, ensuring it meets legal obligations and strategic goals, and works closely with staff and community stakeholders.

9. What makes Whanganui High School unique?
Its commitment to holistic education, cultural inclusivity, student engagement, and community partnership sets it apart as a leading school in New Zealand.