Academic programmes
Academic excellence for international students
Macleans College offers a high-quality academic programme for international students seeking strong secondary school educational outcomes in Auckland, New Zealand. The school is recognised for consistently high academic performance, with external examination results placing it among the top high schools in New Zealand.
Students benefit from a rigorous and well-structured programme that supports clear pathways to university and future careers.
'Since Macleans College is such an academic school, I was able to keep myself challenged throughout my stay, whether it be through doing scholarship exams or other external competitions. This year, thanks to my interest in sitting the scholarship English exam, I learned to better articulate myself and think in a more nuanced way.'
A strong and balanced curriculum
Macleans College delivers a knowledge-rich curriculum with a wide range of subject choices and clear academic progression.
From junior to senior levels, students develop:
- Strong subject knowledge
- Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Academic confidence and independence
The curriculum prepares students for success in both national and international qualifications.
Some links on this page, marked with an arrow ↗, will take you to other areas of the Macleans College website for more detailed information.
Flexible qualification pathways
Senior students can choose from a range of recognised academic pathways, allowing them to align their studies with future goals.
Options include:
- National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA) ↗
- NZQA Scholarship ↗
- Vocational pathways ↗
- Cambridge International Education (CIE) ↗
This flexibility ensures each student can follow a pathway suited to their strengths and aspirations.
'Macleans College showed me that study can be fun and interactive, it helped me to see my weaknesses and strengths, improve my leadership skills and learn new hobbies with the adventure time at Outdoor Education classes and the interesting Design classes.'
English language support (ESOL)
Macleans College provides dedicated English language support for international students at all levels.
Programmes are designed to:
- Build confidence in the English language
- Support learning across all subjects
- Help students fully participate in school life
Students move into mainstream classes with confidence, with pastoral and academic support.
Please note: ESOL support is available to long-term international students only. Students on short-term stays are not eligible for this programme.
Experienced and supportive teaching staff
Students are taught by qualified and experienced teachers who are committed to high-quality teaching and learning.
Teaching at Macleans College is supported by:
- Structured programmes of learning
- Clear learning outcomes
- Ongoing academic guidance
Teachers work directly with students to monitor progress and support achievement at every stage.
Pathways to university
Macleans College students regularly progress to leading universities in New Zealand and around the world.
The Careers Department supports students with:
- Subject selection and pathway planning
- University applications
- Scholarship opportunities
Proven academic results
Macleans College has a strong and consistent record of academic achievement.
- Consistently high NCEA achievement rates
- Strong NZQA Scholarship results
- Outstanding Cambridge International results, including Top in the World and Top in New Zealand awards
- Graduates accepted into leading universities worldwide
Music scholarship at Macleans College
Macleans College has one of the top school orchestras and concert bands in New Zealand and scholarships are offered for orchestral and band instruments.
The Macleans College Faculty of Music is offering music scholarships for instrumentalists Grade 6 or above with the Associate Board of the Royal Schools of Music, Trinity College London or an equivalent standard.
Applicants are invited to submit a DVD or a copy of their performance, together with the curriculum vitae of experience.
The scholarship applies to international students.
Contact:
- Mr Patrick Lau - [email protected]
- Dr Steve Miles - [email protected]
Your pathway starts here
Macleans College provides a strong academic foundation, with the flexibility and support international students need to succeed.
Students are guided to achieve their academic goals and progress confidently to university and future careers.
Ready to find out more? Contact the International Department.