A nurturing foundation for confident futures

Welcome to Selwyn House School, a leading independent school in Christchurch, New Zealand

We offer a co-educational pre-school for ages 2.5–5 years and a Year 1–8 girls' independent full primary school.

As an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, we deliver the Primary Years Programme (PYP), which fosters inquiry-based learning, critical thinking, and a global perspective. Our comprehensive curriculum integrates academics with specialised programmes in STEM, arts, sports, and leadership development, empowering students to explore their passions and build resilience.

Principal-Julie-Calder-2025

Kia ora & Welcome

A message from our Principal – Julie Calder

Our goal at Selwyn House School is to equip each student with the knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary to be confident and capable learners. Successful learning involves making positive, healthy connections focused on collaboration, empathetic understanding and forming lifelong relationships.

Learning

Education & Curriculum

Small class sizes allow for individualised attention, fostering a nurturing environment that supports both personal and academic growth. Selwyn House School is the only all girls full primary school in the New Zealand offering the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP). We prioritise the development of leadership skills, resilience, and global citizenship through its programme.

New Students

Your journey begins here

Play Video

Selwyn House School places a strong emphasis on academic excellence, offering a curriculum that integrates the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP) to promote inquiry-based learning.

Alongside its academic focus, Selwyn House encourages students to participate in a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, performing arts, and technology.

We also prioritise the development of leadership skills, resilience, and global citizenship through our programmes. Selwyn House School prepares students for future challenges while nurturing their creativity, confidence, and critical thinking skills.

At Selwyn House, your daughter is empowered to take on leadership roles, voice her opinions, and develop her unique strengths in a safe environment tailored to her success.

I am

Our Mission

Thriving Today, Changing tomorrow

Embodied within the ethos of Selwyn House School is our four values – Curious, Courageous, Resilient & Inspirational.

Our 4 core school values

Curious

Embodied within the ethos of Selwyn House School is the value of curiosity – bold, confident, and ever inquisitive. We foster a culture where the pursuit of knowledge is not only encouraged but celebrated. Our students are urged to seek out diverse perspectives, to delve into the depths of self-discovery, and to actively engage with the world around them.

Courageous

We foster an environment where students courageously unite to tackle challenges as a team, while also empowering each individual to demonstrate courage in their own unique way. Each student demonstrates the courage to forge their own path and make a meaningful impact in the world.

Resilient

We recognise resilience as vital for surmounting obstacles. We empower students to navigate challenges with resilience, rebounding stronger through mutual support and collaboration. In doing so, we equip them with the tools to shape a future where resilience and innovative thinking thrive in tandem.

Inspirational

Our community is a beacon of empowerment and growth. We cultivate leadership qualities, instilling in our students the drive to make meaningful contributions to society. Our students are not just learners; they are catalysts for a brighter future, shaping a world defined by inclusivity and inspiration at every turn.

Curious
Courageous
Resilient
Inspirational