Atea College, Panmure (Auckland)

Key facts

About Atea College

Atea College is an independent, faith-based school in New Zealand that has operated as a Cambridge International school since 2003. It covers both primary and secondary years, teaching students from the Cambridge Primary programme through to A Level.

The school has a Christian ethos and employs registered teachers who share that commitment. Its 2019 ERO report noted that the school's stated intent of 'nurturing in excellence and knowledge' is reflected in a curriculum aligned with the Cambridge International Curriculum at all levels.

Each student has an individual learning plan. Core subjects are English, Mathematics, Science, History, and Bible. Teaching takes place in multi-level classrooms, with formal structured instruction combined with individual attention. The school also accepts international students and is a signatory to the Education (Pastoral Care of International Students) Code of Practice 2016.

Enrolment

Applications for enrolment are accepted at any time. The process differs for domestic and international students.

New Zealand Citizens and Residents

Applicants complete a domestic student application form and submit it with a $300 application fee. If the application matches a vacancy, the school invites both parents and the child to an interview. The school notifies applicants of the outcome within one week. If a student has not previously been enrolled in a New Zealand school, a passport or birth certificate must be brought to the interview. If the student is currently enrolled at another New Zealand school, the Ministry of Education transfers school records on completion of enrolment.

International Students

Applicants complete an international student application form and submit it with a $500 registration fee. If the application meets the school's criteria, an interview and English test are arranged, which can be conducted while the student is still in their home country. If successful, the student is offered a place and enrolment and tuition fees must be paid. The school then issues the documents required for an application to Immigration New Zealand for a student visa.

Conditions of Enrolment

All new enrolments are provisional for one term and are confirmed once the school is satisfied the enrolment is appropriate. The school retains complete discretion over which students are enrolled. One term's written notice is required to withdraw from enrolment or courses. If notice is given before a term begins, fees for that term are payable; if notice is given after a term has started, fees for that term and the following term are payable.

No enrolment zone or priority criteria are described in the school's enrolment information.

Curriculum

Atea College uses the Cambridge International framework across its year levels, from primary through secondary. The school covers Years 1–8 in primary and continues into secondary. Year 6 students sit Cambridge International Primary exams in October.

Years 1–6 (Junior Primary)

Classes are capped at 20 pupils. The curriculum follows the Cambridge Primary Curriculum and includes:

• Writing, Spelling, Reading, and Grammar
• Mathematics (all four rules of arithmetic)
• Bible
• New Zealand History
• Computing
• Science
• Geography
• Physical Care
• Art and Music
• Te Reo Māori

A phonics-based reading approach is used from age five. Religious integration is part of the programme, with daily work connected to Christian teaching.

Years 7–8 (Senior Primary)

Classes are capped at 25 pupils, and courses are adapted to individual students. The Cambridge Primary Curriculum continues, with the following subjects taught:

• English and Mathematics
• New Zealand History
• Science
• Geography
• Computing and IT
• Physical Care
• Music and Art
• Te Reo Māori
• Languages including French, New Testament Greek, and Hebrew

At this level, the school places increased emphasis on independent research skills and the evaluation and application of information.