Murchison Area School 

Principal’s Message:

Nestled amongst the four rivers, Murchison Area School is much more than an educational provider, it is a hub for our community. We are incredibly fortunate to have a backyard that is the envy of many, with our world-class rivers and rugged landscapes providing a natural classroom for exceptional outdoor education opportunities. This connection to the environment shapes our students’ character, fostering a sense of adventure and a respect for the unique lifestyle that defines our region.

In this setting, we are committed to providing the very best education within a strong, caring environment. The beauty of an area school lies in the continuity of care and the seamless transition between primary and secondary years. Our students benefit from access to wide-reaching curriculum areas and specialist staff right from the start. We are well-resourced, with facilities that include a heated indoor swimming pool, use of the magnificent community recreation centre, and a dedicated Learning Support Area designed to ensure an inclusive and equitable education for every learner. To ensure our students are future-ready, we provide a device to every individual for their daily learning.

Beyond the classroom, we are dedicated to the holistic development of our young people. We provide a wealth of sporting opportunities that allow our students to stay active, build teamwork, and represent our school with pride. Alongside our athletic traditions, we are currently revitalising and developing our promotion of the arts, ensuring that creativity and self-expression have more of a place within our school culture. We also believe in the power of student agency and actively foster leadership opportunities across all year levels. Through our Student Leaders and Student Council, we provide a platform for our learners to share their voices and play an active role in shaping the direction of their school.

At the heart of our school is a commitment to pastoral care, which we believe is the foundation for academic, physical, and social development. We place a high value on fostering healthy relationships, raising achievement, and encouraging personal growth. This begins in our primary syndicate, where small class sizes and a low teacher-to-pupil ratio allow us to build genuine connections and focus on the progress of every child. Our staff value the whole person, ensuring that our excellent academic results are matched by the development of character and resilience.

As students move into the secondary school, they have the opportunity to study a diverse range of subjects with specialist teachers. We further enhance these options through strong distance learning partnerships with Te Kura and the Southern Institute of Technology, alongside placements in the Top of the South Island Trades Academies. By working closely with our local community through Gateway placements and work experience, we ensure our seniors are well-prepared for whichever pathway they choose, whether that be university, polytechnic, or the workforce.

We are immensely proud of our young people. When students leave Murchison Area School, they do so standing tall, knowing they have been given every opportunity to succeed and the confidence to flourish in the wider world.

Charlotte Saunders

Tumuaki | Principal

Murchison Area School