St Mark's School, Opawa

Welcome to St Mark's School, Opawa, located on Cholmondeley Avenue in Christchurch, New Zealand. Our institution is not just a school, but a place where ideas and students grow, where critical thinking is fostered, and where students are encouraged to exceed their potential.

Our school has a rich history that dates back to June 1921, when Canon Henry Williams, the vicar of St Mark's Parish in Opawa, established a church day school in a small room on the church grounds. Over the years, our school has evolved, and today we are proud to be a primary school of special character, rooted in the teachings and formularies of the Anglican Church.

At St Mark's, we believe in nurturing the unique gifts, talents, and abilities of every student within a Christian family atmosphere. We prioritize their spiritual, academic, physical, emotional, and cultural needs, ensuring a holistic approach to education. Our aim is to equip students with the skills they need to thrive in an ever-changing world, including collaboration, adaptability, problem-solving, and critical thinking.

One of the hallmarks of St Mark's is the positive relationships between students, staff, and whanau (family). Our teachers know each student individually, allowing for personalized and inquiry-based learning experiences. We believe that when students feel a sense of belonging and worth, they are more engaged and motivated to learn.

We invite you to visit our new and innovative campus, where you can see firsthand the impact of our approach to education. Hear from our families, talk to our talented students, and engage with our inspiring teachers. Experience the strong sense of community and faith that permeates every aspect of St Mark's School.

As the Winged Lion is the traditional symbol of St Mark the Evangelist, we embrace this symbol as a representation of our commitment to academic excellence and spiritual growth. Our school program includes regular worship at St Mark's Anglican Church, religious tuition within the curriculum, church services at the school, and the active involvement of the Vicar of the Parish in school life.

St Mark's School is a co-educational, full primary school offering classes from Year 0 to Year 8. With a balanced ratio of boys and girls from diverse socio-economic backgrounds, our students benefit from a well-rounded view of learning and life. We prioritize the development of the whole student, not just their intellect, and offer a wide range of activities to enrich their educational journey.

To learn more about St Mark's School, please contact us at office@saintmarks.school.nz or principal@saintmarks.school.nz. We look forward to welcoming you to our vibrant and nurturing community at St Mark's School, located on Cholmondeley Avenue in Christchurch, New Zealand.