“Ad Alta” Reach for your heights. That’s the motto of Wakatipu High School. Look around you. This impressive building stands proudly in Frankton Queenstown. It wasn’t always here though.
Wakatipu High School opened its doors in 1937. It wasn’t located at its current spot on Red Oaks Drive. The school initially resided at 68 Fryer Street in central Queenstown. A significant move happened during the 2017/18 summer holidays. The school relocated to its present location. The new building cost approximately $50 million. It’s a modern structure built with an open-plan design. This design aimed to encourage interaction among students. The move wasn’t without its critics. The open plan layout was controversial. However the school has thrived in its new home.
More than 1400 students attend Wakatipu High School. They are taught by over 140 dedicated staff members. This makes it the only public high school in Queenstown. The school caters to students from Years 9 to 13. That’s ages 13 to 18. The school has continued to grow. So much so that there are plans to possibly bring back temporary classrooms. Or perhaps even build another high school in Queenstown.
Wakatipu High School uses the NCEA assessment system. Students earn credits toward their NCEA qualifications. There’s also a unique aspect to the school’s curriculum. Students participate in the “Ākonga Passport” program. This program awards points for upholding the school’s values. Students can achieve bronze silver and gold levels in the passport.
The school uses a house system. There are five houses each with a distinct color. Arthur House is blue Duncan House is black. Fox House is red Hay House is green and Mackenzie House is orange. Each house has a dean and student leaders. The houses are named after significant historical figures from the region.
Wakatipu High School boasts notable alumni. Alice Robinson a champion slalom skier is one example. Cool Wakushima a New Zealand snowboarder is another. The school clearly fosters success in sports and beyond. It is a place where students can reach their heights both academically and personally.
The school has received positive reviews from the Education Review Office. This highlights the progress made in recent years. The school is continually working to improve student outcomes. It also aims to reduce disparities in learning between different groups of students. Wakatipu High School is more than just a school. It’s a vibrant part of Queenstown’s community. It’s a place where students learn grow and achieve their full potential. A testament to the motto Ad Alta.