Aims, values, beliefs, & expectations

John McGlashan wrote that he favoured a “sound and liberal education” and today we continue to hold to this broad ideal. The College is com­mitted to a comprehensive philosophy of education and seeks to enable and assist every boy to develop his potential to the fullest.

We aim for intellectual excellence. By means of a well structured curriculum and through effective teaching and learning programmes we strive to instil the capacity for rigorous analysis, disciplined reflection and clear expression.

We also aim to provide an environment in which students become aes­thetically aware, and where they will have the opportunity, through experiences in the arts and elsewhere, to express themselves creatively.

McGlashan adheres to the ideal of “a healthy mind in a healthy body”. We do not expect all boys to be top sportsmen, but we do want them to be physically fit and to experience the cooperation, satisfaction and enjoy­ment of organised sport.

The College re-affirms the standards fundamental to its Christian her­itage: honesty, simplicity, respect and concern for others; and we try to uphold these standards within the College community.

Above all, we want our students to become well-educated men of char­acter. We want them to learn to have the courage to stand, alone if nec­essary, for what they believe is right and to use their education and influ­ence for the good of others. Our fervent hope is that boys will leave here as men of integrity and conviction.

In line with the N.Z. Curriculum we value and acknowledge the importance of:

?       excellence, particularly when arising from hard work and perseverance

?       innovation and curiosity

?       diversity – of cultures, ideas and languages

?       equity, fairness and social justice

?       ecological sustainability

We believe that every boy should be treated with respect and that we should teach and abide by Christian principles. The College will be a safe place, at all times, for all who live and learn in it - a place where boys can work hard and play hard and enjoy each other’s company.

We expect every student to achieve at a level that extends and challenges him.  We expect every student to leave this school well prepared for tertiary study or work.  We expect him to have high standards, to respect those in authority and to abide by the rules.  They include the following:

·       Honesty is expected in all dealings

·       Members and guests of this community are to be treated with respect and courtesy at all times.

·       Boys are expected to make the best use of their talents in all school activities.

·       Private and public property is to be treated with care and respect for the rights of others.

·       School appointments are firm obligations.