About Us | ISNZ

Vision

ISNZ envisions New Zealand's independent schools as global leaders in educational excellence.

We strive to empower our member schools to innovate, excel, and continually enhance their offerings in order to nurture the potential of every student.

Mission

Our mission at ISNZ is to amplify the voice of independent schools, advocate for their value, foster strategic partnerships with Government, provide schools with continued professional development and more.

We promote the importance of independent education and provide cutting-edge research and insights, ensuring our members are at the forefront of educational innovation.

The Values that Guide Us

Choice

We champion choice – empowering families to select schools that align with their values, ensuring each child receives an education tailored to their needs.

Diversity

We foster diversity and inclusion within our member schools, celebrating each child’s unique experience, perspective and background.

Opportunity

We are dedicated to expanding opportunities for all students across New Zealand through access to high-quality education that prepares them for success.

Our Impact

Through advocacy, promotion, and professional development, we drive continuous improvement in the independent school sector, empowering future generations of leaders and innovators.

Number of schools represented

Number of teachers represented

2,663

Size of the ISNZ member school workforce (FTE)

4,497

Number of students represented

27,926

% increase in student enrolment across member independent schools over the past five years

8.4%

% of independent school students in New Zealand enrolled in ISNZ member schools

89%

Total hours of professional development provided to teachers and staff through ISNZ this year

147

Total number of courses (webinars and one-day seminars) offered to ISNZ member schools for professional development

History

1992

The Independent Schools Council (ISC) was established to represent Boards and Principals.

1994

Bursars of ISNZ schools also became represented by ISC.

2018

ISNZ was appointed as the single body representing the collective interests of Independent Schools in New Zealand, with a new constitution.

2024

ISNZ rebrands, launching their new website and Community Engagement Platform.

Membership

Join a vibrant community dedicated to educational excellence.

Membership provides access to a wealth of resources including professional development courses, a comprehensive document library, and networking opportunities.

Become an ISNZ member