Independent thinking: a classic, and classical, Kiwi approach

Altum Classical Academy is restoring a classical understanding of education; one that recognises that knowledge and virtue are inseparable. Opening 2 February, the Academy will teach students to consider a thought, understand its merits, yet not necessarily agree with it; to think independently, without being swayed by popular opinion.

Socrates once said, “I cannot teach anybody anything. I can only make them think.”

Of course the Greeks don’t have a monopoly on independent thinking. You could argue that thinking for yourself is a decidedly Kiwi trait. No-one could convince Rutherford that splitting the atom was impossible; or persuade Hillary that Everest couldn’t be climbed. As for Kate Sheppherd, you’d never find her meekly waiting to accept the status quo. No, we New Zealanders are often pioneers, in both thought and action.

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Altum Academy’s end-game vision

By the time a student graduates from Altum Classical Academy, they are expected to have the ability to hold an idea lightly, while examining it from all angles. As they consider it, they’ll draw on a platform of historically proven, knowledge-rich learning; not thoughts based on emotion or an educational trend.

But remembering wisdom demands more than stark intelligence, they’ll also approach the idea from a place of morality and compassion. Then, having learned to think critically, the student would go on to reach solid conclusions and engage with more complex ideas.

Young people who receive this kind of education become active contributors to their communities and the economy; even going on to impact the world.

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Our motto

Altum Classical Academy teaches Latin, so it’s fitting that its motto should be in Latin. Altum Academy also teaches te reo Māori, so it’s also fitting that the school’s crest be symbolic of Aotearoa.

The motto, alta per ardua, translates to the high things through the difficult things. The founders of Altum Classical Academy believe the great things in life are achieved through hard work and perseverance; and many New Zealanders believe the same thing. We’re well known for our can-do attitude and willingness to pitch in to get a job done.  

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Our crest

The Academy’s crest depicts the kārearea (the New Zealand falcon), a native bird with great sight and far-reaching vision. In the crest, the bird is looking back, drawing wisdom from the past. The shield behind it speaks of the solidity of a firm educational foundation. Above the kārearea is the Southern Cross constellation. Below it is the interlocking ACA monogram.

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Land of the long white cloud: Compatible with the land of the long white beard?

At Altum, students learn both Latin and te reo Māori in equal measure. Each is taught twice a week, as are the pillars of character. A thorough look into Altum Academy’s ethos, curriculum and attitude, will soon show that the school’s plan is to graduate, not white-haired Greek philosophers, but fine young New Zealanders, equipped with wisdom, character and the tools to think for themselves.

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It's not too late to enrol

If you’re interested in Altum Academy for your child, Altum will start next year for years 7, 8 and 9. A new year level will be added annually until the school has built up to the full complement of years 7 to 13 by 2030.

Altum is a charter school and is free to attend. Find out more in our Info Pack.

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