Altiora Peto - I Seek Higher Things

Kia ora and welcome to Christchurch Boys' High School (CBHS).

We are deliberate about the kind of environment boys learn in. We combine high standards with strong care, because we know that is what enables boys to learn, grow, and thrive.

At CBHS, every boy should feel known, supported, and expected to meet clear standards. Known through strong relationships with staff and peers, supported in their learning and development, and clear about what is expected of them in how they learn, behave, and contribute.

Teaching and learning sit at the heart of the school. Boys learn best in calm, orderly classrooms where expectations are clear. Our teachers create these environments so that boys can focus on their learning, develop good habits, and take responsibility for their progress.

Our purpose extends beyond academic success. We are here to form fine young men, boys who are polite, decent, hardworking, and who care about others. We want our boys to have the courage to act in defence of others, to stand up rather than stand by, and to contribute positively to their communities.

One of the first experiences for a new student is to walk into the School Hall beneath the carved figure of Ngāi Tahu Chief Tautahi. This is symbolic. It reflects that CBHS is part of a long-standing community and that our boys are part of something larger than themselves.

We are fortunate in our facilities. These are outstanding classrooms, designed to support calm, focused learning. It also matters that CBHS is a state school. We exist for more than ourselves. Our responsibility is not only to educate boys, but to contribute to the kind of society those boys will go on to shape.

CBHS has a long and proud history, and our Old Boys have made significant contributions across many fields. We value that history, but our focus is on the young men currently in our care and the standards we set for them each day.

Our motto of Altiora Peto, I seek higher things, reflects our ambition for our boys and our school. That ambition is realised through clear standards, strong relationships, and a shared commitment to doing things well.

Ngā mihi nui,

Nic Hill
Headmaster