A quality education for everyone.

We’re democratising excellence.

Altum Classical Academy is a new classical charter school located in Wilton, Wellington. Starting 2 February 2026 for years 7, 8 and 9, we aim to graduate young men and women who think deeply, act justly, and love what is good.

The curriculum is sound. It’s classical in style, which mean it’s knowledge-rich and draws on timeless ideas. It is also taught with explicit instruction, a purposeful way of teaching where instruction is systematic, direct, engaging and success-oriented. Alongside academic excellence, each student will be taught the value of kindness, respect and self-discipline.

Give them the education you wish you’d had

Evidence-backed curriculum

No fees and open to all

Minimal device use

Partnership with parents

High expectations

Age-appropriate content

Visit the school’s Open Days.

We warmly invite you to come and meet our principal, tour the grounds and discover the Altum ethos and approach to excellence at one of our upcoming open days. There will be two information sessions, Sunday 7th December at 2pm, and Tuesday 9th December at 7pm.

A classical education
for Aotearoa today.

Our school restores a classical understanding of education; one that recognises that knowledge and virtue are inseparable and that truth can be pursued through reason, inquiry, and disciplined imagination. The classical model, flourishing in the UK, Australia and the US is built upon the seven liberal arts and the great works of literature, history, philosophy and science.

The best of the past, grounded in Aotearoa.

We teach the classical tradition alongside our own local stories, NZ history and civic responsibilities. At Altum, Te Reo is taught as a second language.

Knowledge-rich, explicitly taught.

A successful education is one where young people are taught to cultivate wisdom based on knowledge. This is the essence of Altum Academy.

Character development, informed by faith.

Altum was founded on Christian values. It’s our hope that graduating students will leave as wise and considerate young people, equipped to lead fulfilling lives.

As a charter school, there are no fees and we’re open to all.

Entirely government-funded, Altum Academy is levelling the educational playing-field. The new charter school offers a high-calibre classical education, which, until now, has been out of reach for most New Zealanders. It is the firm belief of the Academy’s founders that a first-rate education should be available to everyone.

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Meet our Principal

Tēnā koutou katoa - welcome to Altum Classical Academy. After years spent in education around the world, our school truly represents a dream made real for me. I am thrilled to present the combination of what we know to be the most influential factors in a great education, where our mission is to give students the time-honoured master keys that will open the doors to their best future. Great heights await – I look forward to seeing you soon!

Christian

Christian Pera,
Altum Classical Academy Principal

A classical education speaks of wisdom and virtue.

Altum students learn how to think, not what to think. Our curriculum is shaped by enduring ideas, excellent literature and clear thinking. The students read deeply and are encouraged to write clearly and reason well. They also form habits of attention, discipline and  integrity.

Our curriculum

On behalf of the board

“Altum Academy exists to democratise excellence — opening the doors of a knowledge-rich, classical education to every child, forming disciplined minds, virtuous character and a community where genuine learning is pursued with joy, rigour and shared purpose.”

Michael

Dr Michael Johnston,
Altum Academic Charitable Trust Chair

Meet the Board

Frequently asked questions

If you have a question that isn’t answered in this space, you are welcome to contact us at contact@altum.school.nz

What is the cost to attend?

Where is the school located?

What is your approach to technology?

View all FAQs

Ready for more detail?

Choosing a school is one of the most significant decisions you will make for your child so to aid you in your decision-making, here is the Altum  Information Pack. Inside, you’ll find more about: 

  • How the classical model differs from modern schooling
  • A glimpse of our curriculum and reading list
  • A “day in the life” of an Altum student
  • More detailed information about Altum

Mā te whakaaro nui e hanga te whare; mā te mātauranga e whakaū." Great thoughts build the
house; knowledge makes it firm.

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Putting excellence within everyone’s reach.