Unlocking Global Opportunities for Students

In an increasingly interconnected world, providing students with a diverse range of educational experiences and global opportunities has become an important part of education. ACG schools, with their four independent centres in Auckland and Tauranga, focus on fostering a global mindset and preparing students for success on the world stage. with a curriculum grounded in the prestigious cambridge pathway and a commitment to holistic education, ACG schools open doors to a wealth of international experiences and empowers students to reach their full potential.

ACG Schools recognise that a well-rounded education extends far beyond the classroom and they leverage their relationship with Inspired, an international group of world-leading premium schools. With a presence in over 23 countries and over 100 schools worldwide, Inspired provides unparalleled opportunities for students through exchange programs and summer camps, allowing students to interact with peers from different backgrounds and gain a deeper understanding of diverse perspectives. These experiences foster global citizenship, cultural awareness, and the ability to thrive in multicultural settings – essential skills in our interconnected world.

ACG Schools actively encourage their students to participate in Inspired’s Global Exchange Programme and Camps. These opportunities range from one week to an entire academic year at participating schools worldwide. By embracing these enriching experiences, ACG students broaden their horizons, develop cultural understanding, and enhance their personal growth.
Over this coming European Summer, students will participate in opportunities such as the Real Madrid Football Camp, taking place in Madrid, Spain. During this camp, talented young athletes will receive expert football tuition from Real Madrid’s professional coaches, immersing themselves in the values championed by the renowned football club.

Another exciting opportunity for the more fashion-inclined is the International School of Milan’s Fashion and Design Course. Led by fashion experts Nicoletta Morozzi, Lorenza Branzi, and Teresa Maccapani Missoni of the Missoni fashion house dynasty, participants will engage in a sustainable fashion project and gain hands-on experience in various stages of production, including visits to prominent fashion institutions in Milan.

In addition, ACG students have the chance to immerse themselves in one of the most ecologically important parts of Costa Rica. This camp offers students the opportunity to explore diverse landscapes, from the Caribbean Sea to mountains, forests, rivers, and volcanoes, while taking part in activities such as rainforest canopy high ropes, white water rafting and hiking. They will also learn from local experts and community leaders about sustainability, social development, and innovation.

For Riley Scherer, a student at ACG Tauranga, the experience of going on a study exchange to Switzerland was a defining experience. “Being able to live and study in Switzerland gave me the confidence to embrace new experiences,” Riley shares. Through Inspired’s global exchange program, Riley was able to forge new friendships, improve language skills, and gain a deeper understanding of different cultures.

With a love of engineering, one of the highlights of Riley’s trip was a visit to CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, where he witnessed the awe-inspiring Hadron collider. This experience of the best of human engineering was also balanced by a bit of time in nature. As a participant in the Duke of Edinburgh Award Program (International Award Switzerland), Riley’s exchange journey took on added significance with an invitation to participate in a two-day tramp in the Chateaud’Oex area.

As Riley settled into St George’s International School in Switzerland, he discovered an environment that felt familiar and reminiscent of ACG Tauranga, but with its own unique experiences of course. Throughout his exchange, Riley settled into his dorm, enjoying the stunning view overlooking Lake Geneva and relishing the Swiss cuisine provided, including breakfast pancakes. Weekends were reserved for exploring nearby towns like Vevey and Montreux.

Jorgia Matthews, a student at ACG Parnell, is eagerly anticipating her upcoming adventure in Milan. “I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to explore the fashion capital of the world and immerse myself in a vibrant creative scene,” says Jorgia. ACG Schools’ commitment to providing diverse opportunities allows Jorgia to pursue her passion for fashion while developing a global network and acquiring valuable skills that will set her apart in her future endeavours.

Jorgia’s parents have expressed their excitement about the upcoming experience. The program serves as a bridge that brings together students from different countries and encourages lifelong friendships. By embracing the diversity within the program, students gain a broader understanding of the world and develop a global perspective, which aligns well with one of ACG Parnell’s Values, Global View.

Jorgia credits ACG Parnell’s incorporation of activities, such as debating, as helping foster students’ ability to think critically and consider multiple perspectives. She highlights debating’s impact on her ability to see both sides of an argument, encouraging open-mindedness and respectful dialogue. In an age where opinions are often one-sided and polarising, ACG Schools equip students with the skills to engage in thoughtful discussions and promote understanding.

And it’s this holistic approach to education, commitment to academic excellence, and the Cambridge Pathway curriculum that defines ACG Schools. By integrating a wide range of extracurricular activities and real-world experiences, ACG Schools ensure that students develop a comprehensive skill set that extends beyond academic achievement.

Mike McFadden, CEO of ACG Schools, underscores the benefits of the ACG experience, stating, “We pride ourselves on providing world-class educational opportunities across all ACG schools. Our students are highly motivated and passionate about learning, and their enthusiasm and determination are clearly reflected in their achievements.”

While part of the success of ACG is its global network, their primary focus is on the individual child, encouraging and supporting them to reach their full academic and personal potential. In Riley’s case, the decision to transfer to ACG was driven by a desire to provide him with a better educational experience. As a student who was struggling in a mainstream school and facing the prospect of being in a large class with limited individual attention, Riley’s parents recognised the need for a more supportive and tailored environment.

ACG School students consistently excel academically, achieving top rankings in New Zealand and on the global stage. Following the 2022 Cambridge examinations, ACG received the highest number of accolades compared to all other independent schools in New Zealand, with 1 out of every 3 awards in the country.

This commitment to unlocking global opportunities for students, coupled with a holistic approach to education, academic excellence, and a diverse range of experiences, not only helps ACG Schools prepare students for success in an interconnected world, but it is also helping shape the next generation of global leaders.