Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Auckland
Summary: If you're moving to Auckland with kids, choosing a school if often your first decisions and impacts where you'll live. Here are some popular bilingual and international schools in Auckland
Auckland, is a vibrant city that offers a diverse range of educational options for expat families and digital nomads. While not as large as cities like London or New York, Auckland still boasts a selection of international and bilingual schools to cater to its growing expatriate community. Among the most popular are the Auckland International College and the International School of Auckland, both known for their rigorous academic programs and multicultural environments. Here is a list of recommended international or bilingual schools within a 40-minute drive from Auckland, suitable for expat kids.
Auckland International College (AIC)
Grades: Year 11 to Year 13
Location(s): Lynfield, Auckland
Website: www.aic.ac.nz
Auckland International College (AIC) is a private, coeducational institution offering the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme. With a focus on preparing students for university education, AIC boasts a diverse student body representing over 30 nationalities. The school provides excellent facilities, including science labs, art studios, and a library, as well as a range of extracurricular activities.
International School of Auckland (ISA)
Grades: Preschool to Year 13
Location(s): Blockhouse Bay, Auckland
Website: www.isa.ac.nz
The International School of Auckland offers a unique bilingual education in English and Mandarin. Catering to students from preschool to Year 13, ISA follows the New Zealand Curriculum alongside Chinese language and culture classes. The school is equipped with modern facilities and promotes a well-rounded education with a variety of sports and arts programs.
ACG Parnell College
Grades: Year 1 to Year 13
Location(s): Parnell, Auckland
Website: parnellcollege.acgedu.com
ACG Parnell College is part of the ACG Schools network and offers both the Cambridge Curriculum and the International Baccalaureate Diploma. Known for its academic excellence, ACG Parnell College provides state-of-the-art facilities, including science and computer labs, art rooms, and a performing arts center. The school also offers a wide range of sports and cultural activities.
Pinehurst School
Grades: Primary to Year 13
Location(s): Albany, Auckland
Website: www.pinehurst.school.nz
Pinehurst School offers a private, coeducational experience following the Cambridge Curriculum from primary through to Year 13. With a commitment to small class sizes, Pinehurst provides personalized attention to students. The school's facilities include modern classrooms, sports fields, and specialist rooms for music and art, complemented by a range of extracurricular clubs and societies.
Kristin School
Grades: Kindergarten to Year 13
Location(s): Albany, Auckland
Website: www.kristin.school.nz
Kristin School is an independent school that offers both the International Baccalaureate and the New Zealand Curriculum. With a strong emphasis on values and leadership, Kristin provides excellent facilities, including a modern library, sports complex, and performing arts center. The school's extensive co-curricular program encourages students to explore their interests and talents.
King's School
Grades: Boys, Year 1 to Year 8
Location(s): Remuera, Auckland
Website: www.kings.school.nz
King's School is a prestigious independent boys' school that offers a holistic education with a strong focus on both academic and personal development. The school features excellent sporting facilities, a dedicated arts and technology block, and a variety of extracurricular activities designed to foster leadership and teamwork.
Diocesan School for Girls
Grades: Girls, Year 1 to Year 13
Location(s): Epsom, Auckland
Website: www.diocesan.school.nz
Diocesan School for Girls is a leading independent Anglican school with a reputation for excellence in education. Offering the New Zealand Curriculum along with a wide range of cultural and sporting opportunities, Diocesan prides itself on its state-of-the-art facilities, including a performing arts center, swimming pool, and fitness center.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
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- Cost of Living in Auckland
- Health Care in Auckland
- Discover the Best of Auckland
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- Best Places to Live in New Zealand
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- Pros & Cons of Living in New Zealand
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- Pros and Cons of Living in New Zealand 2024
- 2024 Guide to Moving to New Zealand