Cashmere High School

Cashmere High School is a high-achieving learning community that holds high expectations for all students while fostering both academic and personal growth. It balances tradition with innovation, aiming to develop well-rounded individuals who possess the resilience and character needed for a meaningful life. The school values diversity and emphasizes a strong partnership between home and school to support student success.

The school offers a knowledge-rich curriculum leading to the National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA) at Levels 1, 2, and 3, as well as the New Zealand Scholarship Award. Junior students in Years 9 and 10 follow a broad, largely compulsory curriculum, while senior students have increasing flexibility to select subjects aligned with their career goals. The school supports multi-level study, allowing students to select courses from different year levels to meet their individual learning needs.

The school maintains a culture of high achievement, with students regularly succeeding in academic, sporting, and cultural arenas. It prepares students for life beyond school by fostering resilience, character, and the skills necessary for meaningful contributions to their communities. The school's performance is regularly evaluated by the Education Review Office, which has noted the school's effectiveness in achieving valued outcomes for its students.

The school provides dedicated learning support services to assist students in their academic journey. This includes specific programmes for gifted and talented students, as well as support for those requiring additional assistance with their studies. Career pathways guidance is also available to help students plan for their future beyond secondary school.

Enrolment applications are managed through an online process, with specific deadlines for Year 9 and senior year levels. Prospective families must provide documentation including proof of identity, academic reports, and, for in-zone applicants, evidence of residence such as utility bills or tenancy agreements. The school conducts an out-of-zone ballot process when necessary and may require meetings with senior leadership for certain applications.

The school operates on a term-based system, with key dates including enrolment deadlines, scholarship application windows, and testing mornings for prospective students. Detailed term dates and a printable school calendar are available to the community via the school's website.

The campus features a comprehensive gymnasium complex with two gyms, including an international-standard basketball/netball court and badminton courts. The fitness and high-performance centre, Te Whare Rehia, provides space for group activities like yoga and pilates, alongside cardio and weight-training equipment. Additionally, the school maintains extensive outdoor facilities, including a mix of hardcourts and sand-based turf surfaces for tennis, netball, basketball, and hockey training.

Cashmere High School offers a wide range of co-curricular activities, with a strong reputation in sports and the performing arts. Students participate in local and national competitions in areas such as music, drama, theatre sports, and various sporting codes. Leadership opportunities are available through the Student Council, house competitions, and various student-led clubs and groups.