A Community Like No Other
The boarding experience
COLLEGIATE LIFE / THE BOARDING EXPERIENCE
COLLEGIATE LIFE / THE BOARDING EXPERIENCE

Living and Learning Together

Boarding at Whanganui Collegiate School is more than just a living arrangement; it’s a lifestyle deeply woven into our culture. While our boarding tradition is proudly multi-generational for many families, today’s students choose to board here to immerse themselves fully in our rich academic, sporting, and cultural opportunities.

Boarders thrive in our dynamic live-in environment and, the wealth of academic, sporting, and cultural opportunities, where friendships flourish, and personal growth takes centre stage. A boarding House is more than just a place to stay—it becomes a community, a second family, their whānau, and a source of lifelong connections.

The Boarding Community:
Structure and Support

Boarding at Whanganui Collegiate is carefully designed to ensure students thrive academically and personally:

Dedicated In-House Teams
Each House features a resident Housemaster, House Tutor, and Matron, with evening tutors providing supervision and academic support during prep time. Every year group is assigned a dedicated tutor for regular check-ins and academic guidance.

Girls’ are connected to Boys’ Houses

Girls are affiliated with a boys’ House for co-educational activities, including tutor groups for senior years and Inter-House competitions, fostering camaraderie and collaboration.
Student Leadership and Connection
Each year group has a Head of Year providing horizontal leadership across the school, while Housemasters maintain vertical connections, ensuring a comprehensive support system for every student.

Inclusive Activities and Opportunities

From weekend outings and in-House activities to House camps and informal social events, boarding life is filled with moments to bond, grow, and have fun.

A Community for All — Day Students

Our Houses welcome day students as integral members of the boarding community. Day students are fully immersed in House life, joining dinners, evening prep, and weekend social events with their peers. Whether they’re enjoying a shared meal, competing in House music or debating competitions, or relaxing with friends, all students are encouraged to play an active part in their House.

Houses are thoughtfully assigned, often honouring multi-generational family connections. For new families, placements are carefully chosen to ensure the best fit for each student.

A Shared Journey

Parents are valued members of our community, too, staying actively involved in their child’s boarding journey. Together, we ensure every student thrives academically, socially, and personally. With Housemasters providing vertical leadership and Heads of Year fostering horizontal connections, each student benefits from a comprehensive and supportive network.

At Whanganui Collegiate School, every student is encouraged to contribute, connect, and grow, making the House system the cornerstone of a truly exceptional boarding experience.