QMC Prospectus 2023

PROGRESSIVE, IT’S OUR TRADITION

Welcome to Queen Margaret College

Welcome to Queen Margaret College, Wellington's leading independent girls' school. We provide a world-class education for girls from Year 1–13 and have a co-educational Preschool and boarding facility onsite.

At QMC we believe in the importance of girls' education. We inspire every girl to challenge the status quo and be a fearless architect of her own future. Our College is small enough to ensure every student is known as an individual but large enough to offer a full range of subjects, multiple language options and a first-class Sport and Arts Programme.

With over 50 nationalities represented at our cosmopolitan Wellington central location, we offer a unique opportunity for contemporary learning. Our inclusive, holistic, and future-focused environment allows our students to thrive whatever their needs and talents may be. Our school is committed to the Presbyterian values of education, equality, and community, we are an inclusive community, welcoming girls of all faiths and backgrounds in the pursuit of truth, and in the nurturing of moral and spiritual development.

Wellbeing is the most important aspect of the lives of young people. Our bespoke Wellbeing Programme is tailored to meet the changing needs of our students as they journey through to the primary stages of adolescence.

In 2018, we opened our dedicated boarding facility, Queen Margaret House, providing onsite accommodation for domestic and international young women wishing to study in Wellington. Queen Margaret House has enhanced our international reputation within New Zealand and worldwide.

As a school, we constantly strive to develop the skills and dispositions necessary to remain leaders in girls' education. We challenge ourselves to ask, "what impact we are having on our learners, how we are going and where to next?" allowing us to consistently evolve, inspire innovation and create endless possibilities for all who learn and work at QMC.

I look forward to meeting you and introducing you to life at Queen Margaret College.

Ngā mihi nui, Jayne-Ann Young PRINCIPAL

Empowering young women to live, learn, and lead adventurously.

Why QMC?

For over 100 years Queen Margaret College has created a culture of curiosity and exploration. From academia to arts, sports and science, our students embrace all aspects of school life with enthusiasm and respect.

COSMOPOLITAN LOCATION

Our central Wellington location gives our students access to diversity, vibrant culture and opportunities to get involved in the community. Founded in one of Wellington's oldest inner-city suburbs, our unique mix of heritage and modern buildings creates an inspiring learning environment.

ALL GIRLS ADVANTAGE

We believe in tailoring education for girls. That means championing their learning needs, building resilience and supporting leadership and academic success. As a result, we are developing confident, principled women who make a difference in the modern world through a holistic approach to education and a focus on wellbeing and community.

ADVENTUROUS LEARNING

We encourage students to think critically and build passionate views. We celebrate success and learn from challenges to lay the foundation for happy, compassionate, and determined young women.

IB WORLD SCHOOL

We are the only girls' school in Wellington to teach the International Baccalaureate (IB) from Years 1-13 which consists of the Primary Years Programme (PYP) at Years 1-6, the Middle Years Programme (MYP) at Years 7-10 and the IB Diploma Programme (DP) pathway for Years 12-13.

GLOBAL PERSPECTIVES

As a proud IB World School, we are creating global citizens and expanding the perspectives of our students. Our curriculum promotes multilingualism, intercultural understanding and respect. More than simply cultivating academic success, our mission is to develop knowledgeable, open-minded young women ready to make their mark in the world.

100% Pass rate for NCEA Level 2 in 2022

1:20 Student to teacher ratio

100% Pass rate Diploma in

Girls outperformed boys in collaborative problem solving across the OECD by 29 points, and in New Zealand this difference was particularly large (41 points).

PISA COLLABORATIVE PROBLEM SOLVING REPORT

QMC Model for Learning

Teachers who understand the impact they have on all learners

Students who apply learning dispositions, take risks and share high expectations

Engage in skill competency for their futures

Queen Margaret College uses the unique research of Professor John Hattie.

Our Principal Jayne-Ann Young spent six years as a consultant and master trainer for Professor John Hattie and the Visible Learning team at Cognition Education. She continues to champion and instil a unique culture

QUEEN MARGARET COLLEGE 08

Wellbeing

Finding balance is essential for learning and academic success.

PROACTIVE WELLBEING

We have established a Proactive Wellbeing Strategy, founded on six pillars, to ensure every student can respond to the challenges of life. Our Wellbeing Programme helps cultivate positive relationships and healthy mindsets.

1. Purpose

Finding meaning and belonging in life.

2. Accomplishment

Aiming for and achieving meaningful outcomes.

3. Engagement

Cultivating the courage to try new things.

4. Positive relationships

Forming positive connections to help us grow.

5. Emotional strength

Reinforcing positive mindsets and resilience.

6. Wellness

Learning about mind-body connection and self-care.

READY TO THRIVE

THRIVE is our unique Wellbeing Programme that has been designed for our students in Years 7-13. Tutor Teachers facilitate the programme once a week. Sessions incorporate activities, discussions and reflections that build on the six pillars of wellbeing.

DEDICATED TEAM

Our Wellbeing team is led by our Deputy Principal (Wellbeing) and is made up of experienced staff, including Tutor Teachers, Deans, our Chaplain, Nurses, our Wellbeing Coaches, an Educational Psychologist, and other specialised staff such as our Director of International Students, Careers Director and our Learning Enrichment Manager. To foster a schoolwide culture of wellbeing within classrooms and throughout our community, each staff member at QMC receives professional development training from our Wellbeing Team and external providers.

EQUIPPING PARENTS

We value the importance of working with families and host wellbeing information sessions for parents throughout the year. Useful resources which support parents to raise resilient young people are accessible through School TV, an online platform available to our community.

Welcome to Junior School

Learning

The Junior School is the start of an exciting Primary Years Programme (PYP) learning adventure. Students explore their interests through guided inquiry and develop independence, resilience and confidence within a supportive and nurturing environment.

YEARS 1-2

Students play, explore and express themselves in a responsive and interactive environment, where teachers observe and develop motivating activities that promote stimulation. As a result, students develop vital numeracy and literacy skills, building a solid foundation for Years 3-5.

YEARS 3-5

Our students explore academic, sporting and cultural opportunities, which develops confidence and independence, as well as helping them form and express ideas. Students build on numeracy and literacy skills established in Years 1 and 2 and explore ideas across English, Mathematics and Inquiry.

YEAR 6

Students continue to refine literacy and numeracy skills and embark on the Year 6 PYP Exhibition journey. The Year 6 PYP Exhibition is a significant event on the QMC calendar where students choose an issue to explore using a teacher-led inquiry process. The exhibition celebrates the skills and learning dispositions students develop throughout the year.

Primary Years Programme

We teach the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP) to Years 1-6, encouraging students to become active, compassionate, curious, lifelong learners by asking questions, exploring ideas, and collaborating with peers.

The PYP is an inquiry-based framework with an integrated approach to learning across academic, social, emotional, cultural, and physical development. Projects that encourage learning across disciplines allow students to contextualise their knowledge and make connections to the real world.

PYP CURRICULUM

The curriculum and themes aim to foster independence, creativity and open mindedness. Six themes are explored across all areas of learning.

1. Who we are

2. How we organise ourselves

3. Where we are in place and time

4. How the world works

5. How we express ourselves

6. Sharing the planet

Specialist Classes and Clubs

We have several specialist classes and clubs that enhance learning for our students.

All students take part in a specialist music class once a week. Years 2-6 participate in two sessions of French each week, fortnightly te reo Māori classes and, a Religious Education teacher visits the classroom once a week. Years 1-6 can join a club as an extracurricular activity, with options ranging from Art, Chinese, Spanish and Gardening. These opportunities enable girls to experiment with sound, immerse themselves in language, culture and art while exploring the key values of an inclusive environment.

Year 6 PYP Exhibition

CELEBRATING PYP

The Year 6 PYP Exhibition is a celebration of the PYP journey that acknowledges our students' growth and development. Students are given the opportunity to explore a global issue over several weeks and present their project to the wider community. Students take charge of their learning and initiate an inquiry into a range of comprehensive themes that encourage active participation as global citizens.

The exhibition brings together all the essential elements of the PYP transdisciplinary themes. The students demonstrate their understanding of the approaches to learning, creative and critical thinking and communication skills. Approaches to learning known as ATL skills include communication, selfmanagement, social, research and thinking skills.

GLOBAL, PASSIONATE VIEWS

A rich and diverse breadth of topics are explored from social issues – both past and present, environmental concerns, impacts of digital technology, epidemiology and endangered species. Students passionately engage with their chosen topic and develop global awareness and compelling views and actions relating to their exhibition.

BUILDING FOUNDATIONS

The Year 6 Exhibition is a culmination of knowledge acquired throughout PYP that helps build core skills for future learning. As students enter the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) they are equipped with critical thinking skills and have the ability to work both independently and collaboratively.

Extracurricular

Natural inquiry is supported through participation in sports, performing arts and extracurricular activities.

TRIPS AND EXPERIENCES

Experiences beyond the classroom encourage students to work together, develop new interests and find new ways of learning.

Students participate in a range of activities, including trips to Te Papa, Zealandia, the City Gallery, and the National Library. In addition, students in Years 4 and 5 spend two nights away on school camp and Year 6 students experience a fourday camp at an outdoor education centre.

SPORT

Participation in sport helps students refine improve communication, make new friends

Students take part in Physical Education as curriculum. We also encourage girls to join group as an extracurricular interest. Year 1-6 choose from Aerobics, Athletics, Badminton, Cricket, Cross Country, Fencing, Floorball, Hockey, Netball, Rippa Rugby, Rhythmic Gymnastics, Racing, Swimming, Tennis, Touch Rugby and

PERFORMING ARTS

Music and drama are incorporated into the units of work throughout the year. All students in Years 1-6 participate in a bi-annual musical or drama production, helping to build confidence, relationships, and collaborative skills.

Students in Years 1 and 2 learn practical music skills to create a foundation to build upon. Years 3 and 4 learn to play the violin and cello by qualified musicians. Students in Years 5 and 6 can continue with the String Programme or move onto a band instrument and choose from the flute, clarinet, saxophone, trombone, trumpet, bassoon, oboe or percussion.

Performing Arts is a fantastic creative outlet that enhances learning and social development.

Performing Arts is a fantastic creative outlet which enhances learning and social development.

Junior School Disco fundraiser for Make-A-Wish

Leadership and Community Service

Students in Years 1-6 are encouraged to take responsibility for their thoughts, actions, and behaviour as part of personal development.

Building sound leadership skills and a responsiveness to the environment and community creates resilience and compassion for others from an early age.

TAKING ON GREATER RESPONSIBILITY

Students have many opportunities to take up leadership roles in their early years at QMC.

Class Leaders

Class Leaders are elected from Years 3-6, giving students the chance to take on new responsibilities, communicate with their peers and listen to one another.

Representing your House

House Leaders are elected in Year 6. These students take an active role in leading house activities and working alongside leaders in Years 7-10 and House Prefects.

COMMUNITY SERVICE

Community service lies at the heart of our school’s Special Character. Through our partnership with The Make-a-Wish Foundation and with the Wellington Free Ambulance service, along with many other community projects, students establish authentic, meaningful relationships between themselves and those being served, and are enabled to reflect and grow through these experiences.

Students are asked to take action as a result of their learning. This can involve responding to a community need and raising awareness or funds for particular causes in local and global contexts.

Student Assemblies

As part of adventurous learning student-led assemblies take place throughout the year which help students gain confidence, resilience, leadership and communication skills.

Students pass on their donations for the Wellington City Mission's ‘Pack the Bus’ Christmas initiative

Welcome to Years 7-13

Learning

Every student is inspired to think critically, speak up and challenge the status quo. We celebrate success and lay the foundation for thriving and determined young women.

ADVENTUROUS LEARNING

Students are encouraged to take risks, push boundaries and challenge themselves to reach their potential. Our supportive learning environment provides a safe space for students to aim high and expand their limits.

Students are taught to engage in a growth mindset. The IB curriculum emphasises holistic learning, self-management and participation in a global community.

EXPERIENCED, PASSIONATE TEACHERS

Our staff are passionate, committed, and trained to teach the IB curriculum. The guarantee of small classes and a collaborative culture means our teachers get to know and value each student as an individual. We know teachers have a significant, lifelong impact on students and their learning outcomes, so we strive to empower those who work, as well as learn at QMC. We want our staff and students to see more possibilities for themselves at QMC than anywhere else.

PROSPECTUS: PRESCHOOL TO YEAR 13

The International Baccalaureate (IB)

YEARS 7-10

Independence and empathy

The Middle Years Programme (MYP) for Years 7-10 builds independence and curiosity in learning, encouraging girls to participate actively and responsibly in a changing world. Students benefit from a broad and balanced education that emphasises community service and compassion, learner profile attributes and approaches to learning including communication, research, social, self-management and thinking skills.

Classroom to community

The MYP encourages students to learn conceptually through dynamic cycles of inquiry, action and reflection. Students apply this way of learning by considering needs and issues within global contexts. In Year 10 students put this into action in their Community Service Projects, a highlight of the academic year.

Making connections

Interdisciplinary learning is a unique feature of the MYP, providing students with opportunities to make connections between subjects and develop solutions by transferring knowledge from different learning opportunities.

YEARS 11-13

The senior years solidifies our students as independent, forward-thinking, and resilient young women. We build upon the foundation of curiosity and self-management and ensure every student is equipped to create opportunities and embrace the challenges they may face in their future.

Dual pathway

We are the only girls' school in Wellington to offer a dual learning pathway (NCEA and IB Diploma) and diverse curriculum to support every student to excel.

Students can choose between the NCEA or the world-renowned International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (DP). In Year 11, students sit NCEA Level 1 as the foundation course before deciding which qualification is right for them.

Our academic mentors provide support and guidance to students throughout the year to help explore their options.

NCEA

NCEA comprises three levels and is New Zealand's national qualification for Year 11–13 students. It is a standards-based assessment with a mix of internal and external assessments.

IB DIPLOMA PROGRAMME (DP)

The DP is a two-year globally recognised programme that promotes international and intercultural understanding and provides an exceptional depth of knowledge. It is a criterion-based qualification comprising internal and external opportunities.

Learning

Enrichment and Acceleration Programme

Students have access to enrichment lessons where teachers can guide their learning.

This additional support gives students the skills for future study whilst building confidence and self-management.

QMC also offers extension programmes to students in Years 11-13 that develop critical thinking and creativity. Activities include debating, public speaking, essay and creative writing competitions, Ethics Olympiad, peer tutoring and scholarship examinations.

Careers and future pathways

CAREERS CENTRAL

We provide a range of tailored career services to enable students to explore opportunities and take ownership of their future. Our flexible service, allows students to explore and plan in school and at home.

Our Careers Director supports students to plan and explore their future pathways using Career Central, an online platform for students in Years 11-13. Students can explore and manage opportunities, goals, discuss their options, with teachers and parents. opportunities to meet with a range of professions. Year new 'Be the Change' programme. incorporates career education, development and allows students awareness, explore career opportunities, skills within service and leadership

PATHWAYS AFTER SCHOOL

When our students graduate, they are well prepared for the future and ready to follow their chosen career pathway. QMC graduates pursue a wide range of tertiary qualifications and career opportunities within New Zealand and overseas. It is inspiring to see them take on these new challenges with confidence, knowing they have a foundation that enables them

Extracurricular

EDUCATION OUTSIDE THE CLASSROOM (EOTC)

At the beginning of each year, students take part in outdoor activities as part of EOTC week. Excursions, workshops, and clubs encourage our girls to be curious, gain new perspectives and learn adventurously. Each year group participates in a different experience.

Year 9

Year 9 participates in a three-day overnight camp at Teapot Valley near Nelson where students focus on developing independence, social interaction, awareness, manaakitanga and respect for Māori culture.

Year 10

Students participate in a four-day Wellington-based camp that includes first aid training, social cooking, rock climbing, kayaking, go karting, laser strike and ten pin bowling. Year 10 also have an overnight tramp in Rimutaka Forest Park to help students prepare for the Abel Tasman camp in Year 11.

We expand our learning areas to help develop skills for life beyond the classroom walls. Students develop teamwork, leadership, problem-solving and communication skills and intuitively apply them in all areas of life.

Year 7

Students enjoy a four-day excursion across Wellington City. Activities include visiting Katherine Mansfield House, learning to sail, an overnight trip to Wellington Zoo among other activities.

Year 8

A four-day Wellington-based camp that includes Adrenaline Forest, visiting Government House, Matiu Soames Island and Wellington Museum.

Year 11

During a four-day overnight camp in the Abel Tasman National Park, students discover the meaning of resilience while being surrounded by stunning vistas, golden sandy beaches and forests.

Year 12

The Wairarapa experience is a chance for students to challenge themselves physically and mentally during a four-day overnight stay in Masterton. Activities include rafting, caving, archery, surfing and tramping.

Year 13

For their final EOTC, Year 13 students attend a four-day Leadership Conference Camp held at El Rancho holiday park. Students learn the skills they will put into practice as senior students for the remainder of the year.

Experiences are enhanced and perspectives are challenged through participation in sports, performing arts and education outside the classroom.

EOTC builds confidence, resilience and creates a positive impact on physical and mental health.

Leadership and service learning

QMC

LEADERSHIP

All students are encouraged to develop leadership attributes throughout their time at QMC. Students refine and practice these skills when they take on formal and informal leadership roles. Opportunities in Years 7-10 include representing the school as one of our Student Ambassadors or picking up the mantle of Class and House Leaders.

Students in Years 11, 12 and 13 have the opportunity to take on increasingly challenging leadership roles, participate in workshops and become mentors for younger students. Students in Year 13 can apply to be part of the College Prefect team. Other leadership roles include Class Leaders, Student Coaches, House Leaders, Sports Captains, Cultural Captains, Mentors, Prefects, Peer Tutors, Ambassadors and House Sisters. All girls are encouraged to take on leadership roles outside of school, including the Wellington City Council Shift Challenge, Massey University Young Women in Leadership and UN Youth Global Development.

SERVICE LEARNING

Students engage in service as an extension of their studies, furthering their understanding of how their learning connects to the 'real world'. In Year 10, students develop a sense of purpose as they complete a self-driven community project.

students access diverse opportunities to practice collaboration, compassion, and confidence as part of their leadership journey.

We want our students to see more possibilities for themselves here, than anywhere else.

Sports

Creating

Participation in and a love of sport are fostered at QMC. We encourage all girls to take part in sports at either a competitive level or for personal enjoyment. Physical activity encourages positive habits around health, builds character and improves performance both, in and out of the classroom. Our learners develop perseverance, personal growth and social skills, helping them navigate the journey through adolescence. Students also take part in annual school sport events such as Swimming Sports and Athletics Day.

PARTICIPATION AND PERFORMANCE

We offer two sporting pathways for students no matter their skill level or ability; participation and performance. The participation pathway provides sporting opportunities for all students and can be both competitive and social. The performance pathway is for students making school premier teams, New Zealand squads, age groups or development teams and is underpinned by a philosophy of support, growth, and empowerment.

SUCCESS AND RECOGNITION

QMC competes at an elite level across a range of sports. Students go on to become National and International Representatives in their field. Our 3x3 Basketball, 5x5 Basketball, Year 7-8 Cricket, Junior Futsal and Tennis teams are ranked in the top six sports within New Zealand. We currently have several students as National and International Representatives. We are committed to championing success and enhancing opportunities for our students.

SET UP FOR EXCELLENCE

Our excellent facilities enable students to enjoy and maintain their fitness. These include two school gymnasiums, a tennis court and a specialist fitness centre.

opportunities for socialising, developing personal discipline and improving mental and physical health.

Performing Arts

Building confidence and connections with others.

Being involved in Performing Arts is a fantastic creative outlet that enhances students' learning and social development. Cultural activities encourage students to explore creatively, expand their imagination and develop a unique style. Students participate in performances and compose their own music as part of the curriculum and can also take private lessons, join a choir, band, orchestra or cultural club.

YEARS 7-10

Options include Music, Speech and Drama, Choirs, Instrumental Groups, Te Whānau o Kuīni Mākareta (our Māori and Pasifika Performing Arts group) and Shakespeare Festivals.

YEARS 11-13

Students can choose to study Music and Drama as part of NCEA or the IB Diploma. Other opportunities include two auditioned choirs, 'Voces Luce' and 'Jubilate', Barbershop Chorus and Quartets, Queen Margaret Orchestra, Chamber Music and Te Whānau o Kuīni Mākareta. Other opportunities include Musical Theatre, Speech and Drama, Debating, the Sheilah Winn Shakespeare Competition and a bi-annual Production.

All girls take part in our House Performing Arts Day, run by our Senior Music and Drama Prefects.

Cultural activities encourage students to explore creatively and expand their imagination.

School life

SISTERHOOD

The QMC experience is underpinned by a strong connection between students, staff and the wider college community. Whether that connection is found inside or outside the classroom, through mentorship or friendship, we pride ourselves on creating a nurturing environment where every individual is valued and heard.

HOUSES

We have a long and celebrated history of friendly competition between our five school Houses: Berwick, Braemar, Glamis, Lochleven and Stirling. Each girl belongs to a House and joins a community of students, teachers and Old Girls.

Our House system provides students of all ages the opportunity to work together in a unified environment, create friendships, take part in sport and cultural activities, and develop a sense of belonging.

INTERNATIONAL EXPERIENCES

As an IB World School, QMC has established relationships with many schools around the world. These connections expand perspectives and further our understanding of what it means to participate in a global community.

Community

At QMC learning happens in partnership, and we are proud of the relationships with our Old Girls, parents and supporters who are all committed to enhancing the experience of our students.

THE OLD GIRLS' ASSOCIATION

Aims to strengthen friendships between former pupils, help Old Girls reconnect and give back to the College by enhancing opportunities for current students.

THE QMC PARENTS' ASSOCIATION

Provides a social, enjoyable way for families to be involved in the life of their child's school.

THE FOUNDATION TRUST

Has assisted in enabling ongoing financial security of the College's future since 2005.

Boarding

The only girls' school to offer boarding for Years 7-13 in the heart of Wellington.

Queen Margaret House (QMH) provides a nurturing and supportive environment for students to excel in their studies, develop confidence and independence, lifelong friendships, and experience all Wellington has to offer. QMH provides 40 single bedrooms, three lounges, a kitchen and dining room. Girls also have access to college facilities, including our state-of-theart gymnasium, fitness room and Performing Arts suite.

To help maintain a balanced lifestyle, we provide consistent academic support and encourage our girls to take part in recreational activities within the school and boarding house. In addition, regular events take place to build relationships and encourage social interaction. QMH is located onsite and is easily accessible to the city centre of Wellington, home to a beautiful harbour, thriving film industry, museums and cultural events.

Our Boarding House Manager along with the dedicated QMH team are responsible for the pastoral care of our boarders and are committed to creating a comfortable and safe home environment where each individual feels happy, welcomed and valued.

Generosity, it’s our tradition

Community, it’s our tradition

Belonging, it’s our tradition

Our people

Jayne-Ann Young PRINCIPAL

Jayne-Ann sets the strategic direction for QMC. Her vision is to empower all who learn and work here and ensure they see more possibilities for their future here than anywhere else. She brings extensive experience in educational leadership within a global context.

Holly Payne DEPUTY PRINCIPAL (LEARNING AND TEACHING)

Holly has been an invaluable member of staff since joining QMC in 2012. Her extensive teaching career has provided her with a depth of knowledge and experience around curriculum, leadership and service. Holly is a passionate and dynamic leader who believes in empowering young people.

Amanda Peake DIRECTOR OF ENGAGEMENT AND COMMUNICATIONS

Amanda is uniquely placed to lead Engagement and Communications for the College. Her experience spans multiple sectors from education to energy, telecommunications and government.

Paul Sherris DIRECTOR FINANCE AND OPERATIONS

After a decade in the business world, Paul chose to retrain as an educator and pursue a career that felt more personally meaningful. Since joining us in 2014, Paul has become invaluable to the operations of the College, using his breadth of experience to facilitate the quality of learning and care that QMC is renowned for.

Fiona’s passion for manaakitanga, for the wellbeing of the students is at the forefront of her teaching and leadership. She comes with diverse experience from a range of schools having had a focus on pastoral care and future focused learning in her leadership roles.

Ainsley Rawlings

DEPUTY PRINCIPAL (OPERATIONS)

Service to others and her country has been at the centre of Ainsley’s career choices as both a naval officer and an educator. Ainsley believes that education should be a complete package with academic study, pastoral care and engagement outside the classroom the tools to grow independent, confident young leaders.

HEAD OF JUNIOR SCHOOL

Jan's hands-on approach means that all our youngest students will get to know QMC's Head of Junior School. Her 26 years in education combines leadership experience in Wellington schools, but also behavioural and learning- focused roles at the Ministry for Education.

Fiona Crawford DEPUTY PRINCIPAL (WELLBEING)

Jan Treeby

Working together to provide world- class education in a nurturing environment.

Our story

A HISTORY OF PROGRESS

Queen Margaret College first opened its doors on 19 February 1919 with 53 pupils. Our Scottish Presbyterian founders, The Hon. John Aitken and The Very Rev. Dr James Gibb, had a resolute belief in providing a sound intellectual and moral education for girls. Today, with over 100 years of experience providing leading education for girls, that belief is stronger than ever. We remain committed to providing better opportunities for young women in their learning and lives after school.

We are proud to be part of a history of women dating back over a century and take pride in our sisterhood. We continue to foster the kindness, care and high standards of others shown by Queen Margaret. Our special character is cherished through our Religious Education Programme, Assemblies and Services where respect for spirituality and different beliefs is encouraged. Special assemblies such as Founders' Day, Queen Margaret Day, Prefect Commissioning and House Banners keep the history and traditions of the College alive.

Founded in one of Wellington's oldest inner suburbs our main building was originally built as a family homestead on Hobson Street, Thorndon by T.C Williams. We value our rich history and continue to nurture learning and development on our heritage site. Today, we remain to honour our Founder's original vision and deliver a rich, holistic education that builds character, emphasises community service and raises awareness.

Our namesake, Queen Margaret of Scotland, was known for her strength, courage and integrity. As an independent girls' school, we instil these same values in our learners and are dedicated to honouring the legacy of Queen Margaret.

Enrol at QMC

If you would like your daughter's journey to start here, these are the steps:

1. 2. 3.

SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION Apply online at qmc.school.nz/admissions

Applications approved to proceed with the enrolment process will be invited in for an interview with the Principal. Students applying for Year 7 – 10 may be asked to sit a 30 minute assessment.

ON ACCEPTANCE

Successful applicants will receive an offer of place, along with a form to confirm acceptance. Please return this confirmation, together with the acceptance fee, within 14 working days. Once we have received this acceptance, we will send you confirmation of your daughter's place at QMC.

HERE TO HELP

We are here to help and take the time to get to know you during the admissions process. We aim to support your journey and answer any questions you may have. To find out more, get in touch with our Enrolments Registrar, Shonagh MacLeod, at enrolments@qmc.school.nz or visit qmc.school.nz

Getting to know us

There are several ways for you and your daughter to experience how we live and learn at QMC. Our Enrolments Registrar is here to make sure you are supported every step of the way in your decision.

TUESDAY TOURS

During term time, we host school tours on the last Tuesday of each month. This is a great way to explore our heritage site and facilities and to discover all the opportunities we offer.

OPEN DAY

Our annual Open Day is a chance to see our school in action and get a taste of what life at QMC looks like from sports, arts and adventurous learning. Explore our study options, hear from our staff and students and find out where QMC could take you.

SPEND A DAY

To help your daughter ease into life at QMC we recommend spending the day with a class to get a feel for the school, structure and environment.

EXPERIENCE DAYS

Experience Days are for students entering Year 7 and 9 to help them prepare for the pivotal change in their school life.

queenmargaretcollege queenmargaretcollege enrolments@qmc.school.nz qmc.school.nz