An education that grows the heart, mind & spirit

An inspiring environment where every girl is encourages to grow in confidence, character and capability.

Special Character

Achievement

Boarding

Enrolment Process 2027

Please be aware: Pre-enrolment for the 2027 intake to Craighead has now closed.

2027 Boarding placements have now been allocated and, the first round of Year 7 Daygirl offers were sent to our pre-enrolled families 1 June, with our Year 9 Daygirl offers to be sent on 1 July. Our expected intake for 2027 is approximately 63 students across the two intakes at Years 7 and 9.

For more information go to our Enrolment page

Where your journey begins – empowering young women at Craighead…

Located in Timaru, in the heart of New Zealand’s South Island, Craighead Diocesan School is a Special Character school for girls in Years 7–13. We offer both Day and Boarding options, providing a nurturing home and school environment for young women from all walks of life.

As a small, purposefully girls-only school, we are uniquely positioned to focus on the needs of today’s young women. Our dedicated staff use evidence-based teaching strategies that support each student’s individual learning style. Small class sizes ensure personalised attention, while our caring and inclusive culture promotes a sense of belonging.

At Craighead, student wellbeing is at the heart of all we do. Grounded in faith and strengthened by strong pastoral care, we encourage every girl to pursue her personal best – academically, socially, and spiritually.

Begin belonging, connect & explore….

Junior School

Years 7 – 8

At Craighead, our Junior School is more than a beginning — it’s a springboard for growing strong, capable, and connected young women.

Middle School

Years 9 – 10

Middle School bridges the journey from Junior to Senior years, offering rich academic and co-curricular opportunities that build strong learning foundations, foster friendships, and inspire personal growth.

Senior School

Years 11 – 13

Empowering confident, independent learners through academic strength, leadership, and service in Years 11 through to 13

International Students

Welcoming globally-minded young women to a caring and enriching experience at Craighead—where international students are supported, inspired, and immersed in Kiwi culture

Wellbeing

At Craighead, student wellbeing and pastoral care are at the heart of school life—ensuring every girl feels supported, valued, and empowered to flourish academically, socially, and personally.

Co-curricular

At Craighead Diocesan School, co-curricular opportunities play an essential role in fostering a well-rounded education, helping each girl to grow in confidence, find balance, and flourish in all areas of her life.

Ella Laming

Year 13, 2025

‘This school has been so much more than classrooms, internals and exams- it’s been the place where I’ve grown into who I am today. I’ve met friends I know I’ll keep for life, been challenged to push myself further, and picked up skills that I know will carry me well beyond school…’

Olive Roxburgh

Head Boarder 2024

‘…friendships are forged through the Craighead Boarding House through shared experiences and a willingness to learn, forgive and support each other…the boarding experience provides us with so much, everything we need to grow, thrive and flourish as the next generation of young women.’

Parents of Craighead students

‘Being in a girls’ school that is open and supportive has allowed our daughters’ to grow, learn and take risks. At Craighead they are surrounded by positive role models who inspire them to reach their full potential’