Burnside High School: One of Christchurch’s Largest and Most Diverse High Schools

At Burnside High School, you'll find one of Christchurch's largest and most diverse communities with about 2,500 students, including over 100 from international backgrounds. You'll experience a vibrant environment that celebrates over 88 nationalities. The school encourages leadership and offers a wide range of programs, from Visual Arts to specialized music and sports activities. With modern facilities designed for safety and accessibility, you can engage in both academic and extracurricular pursuits. Plus, ongoing community partnerships enhance your learning journey. If you want to explore more about what Burnside has to offer, there's plenty waiting for you to discover.

Major Highlights

• Burnside High School serves approximately 2,500 students, making it one of the largest high schools in Christchurch.
• The school represents over 88 nationalities, fostering a diverse and inclusive environment.
• 63% of students identify as European, while 22% identify as Asian, highlighting cultural variety.
• Community engagement initiatives promote collaboration and celebrate diverse traditions throughout the year.
• The school offers a wide range of academic programs and extracurricular activities to support student development.

School Overview

Located just 4 km from Christchurch International Airport, Burnside High School serves a diverse student body of around 2,500, including over 100 international students.

This vibrant school is organized into four divisions—North, South, West, and Senior—each led by its own Divisional Principal, Dean, and Guidance Counsellor. This structure ensures that you receive tailored support to enhance your student engagement and personal growth.

Burnside High offers numerous leadership opportunities that encourage students to take initiative and develop essential skills.

As part of the Waimairi-iri Community of Learning/Kāhui Ako, students collaborate with peers from various backgrounds, fostering a sense of belonging and community. The school actively promotes cultural diversity, creating an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.

With facilities like the new 24-classroom teaching block and the Aurora Centre for Performing Arts, you'll find ample resources to support your education.

Whether you're participating in extracurricular activities or engaging in innovative programs, Burnside High School is committed to ensuring you make the most of your high school experience, preparing you for future success in a globalized world.

Academic Programs Offered

At Burnside High School, you'll find a diverse range of academic subjects that cater to various interests, from Visual Arts to Digital Technologies.

If you're passionate about music, the specialized programs offer exceptional opportunities for you to excel in multiple areas.

With a focus on both creativity and academic rigor, you'll be well-prepared for your future endeavors.

Diverse Subject Offerings

Burnside High School boasts an impressive array of diverse subject offerings that cater to a wide range of student interests and career aspirations. The curriculum diversity here allows you to explore various fields, from the arts to sciences, ensuring you find your passion.

Here's a glimpse of some subject choices available:

You can dive into practical classes like Sculpture and Photography, or engage with cutting-edge Digital Technology projects. Additionally, languages like Japanese and Te Reo Maori expand your cultural horizons, while subjects like Economics and Legal Studies prepare you for real-world challenges. With such a wealth of choices, you'll find the right path to achieve your dreams at Burnside.

Specialized Music Programs

Music enthusiasts will find a thriving atmosphere at Burnside High School, thanks to its Specialized Music Programme (SMP). This programme welcomes around 15-20 new members each year, primarily in Year 9, and offers specializations in Woodwind, Brass, Strings, Voice, Piano, and Jazz.

You'll experience a unique blend of a junior conservatoire style within the mainstream music curriculum, ensuring you gain the skills needed to excel.

As an SMP member, you'll enjoy weekly private lessons with specialist tutors, along with masterclasses that allow you to collaborate with peers across different ages. You'll also participate in Chamber Music groups, performing in prestigious competitions like the NZCT Chamber Music Contest.

The curriculum includes compulsory music studies through junior years and NCEA levels, with options for Cambridge iGCSE, AS, and A Level.

In addition to your academic studies, you'll have access to numerous performance opportunities, including a full Symphony Orchestra, various bands, and multiple choirs.

Engaging in co-curricular ensemble rehearsals and concerts will enhance your skills and confidence, helping you shine in your musical journey at Burnside High School.

Facilities and Location

At Burnside High School, you'll find modern facilities designed for both learning and recreation, ensuring a safe and accessible environment.

The school's location offers easy access to amenities, parks, and cultural resources, making it a vibrant place to study and grow.

With its thoughtful architectural design, you'll appreciate how the spaces foster both education and community engagement.

Proximity to Amenities

Accessibility to a wealth of amenities enhances the experience at Burnside High School, making it an ideal location for students. Just 2km from the University of Canterbury, you'll find it easy to transition into higher education, with ample resources and guidance available for university scholarships.

The school's affiliation with the Waimairi-iri Kāhui Ako Community of Learning fosters strong educational partnerships that benefit your educational journey.

You're also surrounded by community facilities, with Jellie Park, a fitness and aquatic centre, just 400m away. If you enjoy outdoor activities, Russley Golf Club is a mere 2km from campus, and Christchurch International Airport is only 4km away, making travel convenient.

The vibrant cultural scene of Christchurch lies at your doorstep, offering museums, music venues, and diverse culinary experiences.

With well-maintained parks and gardens nearby, you can enjoy the beauty of the city while engaging in community activities.

Burnside High School's proximity to these amenities not only enriches your educational experience but also encourages community engagement, ensuring you thrive both academically and personally.

Modern Architectural Design

Burnside High School showcases a modern architectural design that effectively balances functionality and aesthetics. With facilities arranged in a well-thought-out layout, you'll find that the school promotes both collaboration and learning. The two-storey H-shaped classroom blocks are part of a sustainable architecture approach, ensuring energy efficiency and minimal environmental impact.

The innovative design includes a library and administration area built in 2006, further enhancing the educational environment. Additionally, the school's well-maintained gymnasium and swimming pool provide students with ample opportunities for physical activity, fostering a well-rounded education.

Here's a glimpse of the school's facilities:

The strategic layout divides the school into North, South, West, and Senior divisions, making navigation intuitive. This design not only accommodates a large student body but also nurtures a sense of community among students and staff. Burnside High School's architecture truly embodies a commitment to education and well-being.

Safety and Accessibility

The safety and accessibility of facilities at Burnside High School are top priorities, especially in light of recent assessments revealing significant earthquake risks. The school closed its administration block and classroom blocks I and J after they were deemed to meet only 15 percent of the New Build Standard (NBS). This decision was made to prioritize the wellbeing of students and staff, despite the Ministry of Education permitting short-term use.

To maintain educational continuity, the school has reconfigured spaces and ensured that student timetables remain unaffected. Ongoing facility renovations aim to comply with current earthquake standards, demonstrating a strong commitment to earthquake preparedness.

Burnside High School's expansive 59-hectare site offers ample facilities, including a 700-seat Performing Arts Auditorium, gymnasiums, and an outdoor swimming pool.

The school's prime location in a student-friendly neighborhood allows easy access to local amenities, such as the City Council-owned fitness and aquatic centre across the road.

With its focus on safety and accessibility, Burnside High School fosters an environment where students can thrive academically and socially, all while ensuring their wellbeing is the utmost priority.

Extracurricular Opportunities

At Burnside High School, you'll find an impressive range of extracurricular opportunities that cater to various interests and skill levels. With over 45 sports available, you can dive into winter sports like netball and rugby or summer sports such as cricket and volleyball. Whether you're looking for sports participation or focusing on skill development, there's something for everyone.

Here's a quick overview of the sports offered:

Students are encouraged to participate whether for fun, to make friends, or to compete at regional and national levels. Burnside High School emphasizes skill development, ensuring that every student can enjoy the sport they love, regardless of their experience level.

Accommodation and Support

For students seeking a welcoming environment, Burnside High School offers various accommodation options and support services to ensure a smooth transition into school life.

One of the most popular choices is the homestay program, where international students can stay with local families. These homestay families provide not only a furnished bedroom and meals but also invaluable family experiences and unlimited WiFi. With weekly costs ranging from $295 to $350, students can stay for periods from two weeks to an entire term or longer, benefiting from a nurturing and safe environment.

In addition to accommodation, Burnside provides extensive student support. Learning Assistants are available in classrooms to help you thrive academically, and if you need extra help, 1:1 tutoring and supervised Te Kura programs are available.

The health and well-being support includes a Health Centre open during school hours, where a First Aid Officer can assist you if you're unwell or injured.

For emotional support, the counselling team, consisting of qualified professionals, is ready to listen and help. You can easily reach out to them, ensuring you feel supported throughout your school journey.

Recent Developments

Recent developments at Burnside High School reflect a proactive approach to ensuring safety and enhancing educational facilities. The administration block has been closed due to seismic safety concerns, currently rated at only 15% of the New Build Standard (NBS).

While this closure might seem disruptive, it doesn't impact your daily timetables. The library block, however, remains open with a solid rating of 50% NBS.

Meanwhile, the school is making significant strides with facility upgrades. A new 24-classroom teaching block opened in June, featuring specialist classrooms for hard materials, digital technology, and science.

The demolished I and J blocks will soon be replaced by 14 new classrooms, expected to be completed by July 2026.

Engineers are working on interim strengthening for the administration block, aiming to improve its seismic rating to at least 34% NBS.

The Ministry of Education continues to review other campus buildings to ensure they meet seismic safety standards.

With ongoing renovations and updates, Burnside High is committed to providing a safe and enriching environment for all students.

Community and Cultural Diversity

There's a vibrant tapestry of community and cultural diversity at Burnside High School, enriching the experience for every student.

With over 88 nationalities represented and a significant international roll, Burnside High fosters an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. You'll find that 63% of students identify as European, while 22% identify as Asian, ensuring a blend of perspectives that enhances learning.

Cultural celebrations play a vital role in showcasing this diversity. Events throughout the year highlight various traditions and customs, allowing students to share their backgrounds and learn from one another. This not only builds community but also deepens mutual respect among peers.

Moreover, Burnside High actively engages in community partnerships, collaborating with local organizations and other schools in the Waimairi-iri Community of Learning.

These connections strengthen the school's ties to its surrounding neighborhoods, promoting a supportive network that benefits students and their families.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the School's Policies on Bullying and Student Safety?

You'll find no specific anti-bullying initiatives or detailed safety measures mentioned. While respect is emphasized, reports indicate students often feel unsupported in bullying situations, highlighting a need for clearer policies and reporting mechanisms.

How Does the School Support Students With Special Educational Needs?

When it comes to supporting students with special educational needs, you'll find inclusive practices and specialized programs galore! Teachers adapt lessons, collaborate with experts, and create tailored support plans to ensure everyone thrives.

What Are the Options for Student Leadership and Involvement?

You've got various options for student leadership and involvement, including student councils and leadership programs like the Peer Mentor Program and Junior Leadership Programme. These opportunities help you develop skills and connect with your peers.

Are There Any International Partnerships or Exchange Programs?

Yes, there are international programs and exchange opportunities available. You can engage in reciprocal exchanges, like the 8-week program with Germany, which includes cultural exploration and language lessons while fostering global friendships and understanding.

What Mental Health Resources Are Available for Students?

You've got access to mental health workshops and peer support groups. These resources help you connect with others, share experiences, and build resilience, creating a supportive environment for your mental well-being and personal growth.

Conclusion

In the vibrant tapestry of Burnside High School, you're not just a student; you're part of an electrifying community that's bursting with opportunities! Imagine the thrill of engaging in world-class academics, diving into a sea of extracurriculars, and celebrating an incredible mix of cultures. With unparalleled support and facilities that feel like a second home, Burnside isn't just a school; it's a life-changing adventure waiting to unfold. You won't just learn here—you'll soar!