Nestled between the sacred surrounds of Mount Taranaki and the Tasman Sea is Green School New Zealand – part of a network of Green Schools that are leading the charge in 21st-century, regenerative education. Inspired by the ethos of its founding sister school, Green School Bali, in Indonesia, Michael and Rachel Perrett decided to set up their own Green School, in New Zealand.
“We saw the transformational effect the Green School movement was having and that ignited something within us,” says Rachel. “We’re passionate about sustainability, the environment and education, and believed things needed to change as our children and our planet were not being served by the existing system.”
It was the Perretts who first proved that the Green School concept could extend beyond borders and inspire learners in other parts of the world. The school’s approach uses project and passion-based learning to teach students foundational subjects and inspire positive social and sustainable change. Students spend time inside as well as immersed in nature. “Much of our learning is outdoors, because that is the only way our learners can develop a true relationship and respect for the environment,” says Rachel.
Another important aspect of Green School New Zealand is its award-winning architecture. The playful, biophilic-inspired buildings sit on 51 hectares of undulating former farmland that the school has “recloaked” with more than 50,000 native plants.
It’s a very special place where learners feel safe to think openly and creatively.
The curriculum is similarly imaginative, with entrepreneurial-based learning to inspire tomorrow’s green leaders and prepare them for real life. Whether of primary, middle or high school age, the aim is to equip students with the knowledge, values and skills required to make a positive contribution to society.
“We ensure our students have those core skills, yet learn to use them in a purposeful way,” says the Head of School, Nigel Barrett. “We want the students to achieve success and enjoy their learning, and we use that tapestry of education and nature to allow our students to learn and grow. Encouraging a growth mindset where students become independent thinkers, problem solvers and lifelong learners, with the confidence to solve challenges that come their way.”
Green School New Zealand opened in 2020 and has since broken new ground with its independent Green School Diploma – one of the first to be accepted by top universities in New Zealand and around the world. Its first cohort of graduates, in 2023, went on to study subjects ranging from creative arts to engineering. One is even pursuing a bachelor of climate change with a major in strategic management.
The school honours its connection with Māori culture and tradition. This includes fostering a sense of community, sharing stories and transitioning knowledge from older to younger generations. Knowledge is shared by teachers, parents, community members and between students. The founders aim to expand Green School New Zealand further, enabling students to thrive among different cultures.
“We want to continue growing the school and look to partner with an aligned developer to build a regenerative village with homes for our international families,” says Rachel. “We want to continue to push the boundaries as we inspire a future generation of business and environmental leaders to thrive with purpose.”
Reach out today at greenschool.nz
