Many people are nervous about applying to an independent school. But there’s no need to be! When you apply to ACG Tauranga, you’ll be met by the friendly face of our enrolment manager Sharron Angus. A mother of three, and nan to three grandchildren, Sharron’s role is to guide you through the entire process - from initial inquiry to first day of school - with care and attention.
What can people expect when they enquire at ACG Tauranga?
Sharron will provide an insight into the heart of our school. She will answer questions, take you on a tour of the school, and ensure you have a good understanding of who we are and what matters to our community.
Knowing there is nothing like experiencing a new environment to really understand it, Sharron encourages prospective students to come and spend a day with us, participating in every aspect of school life, enabling them to then become active participants in family discussions.
What does the enrolment process involve?
The process is easy. Step one is to complete the online application, attaching all supporting documents. Once received you will be invited to an interview with our wonderful principal, Thea Kilian.
This interview is a great time to discuss how best we can support your child to ensure their success from the time they start with us at ACG Tauranga. It’s a two-way process – we want to get to know your child, and for you to get to know us.
What sort of questions do parents have?
Parents’ questions are many and varied and all equally important.
Mostly parents want to know what really matters to us as a school and what our aspirations are for our students. They are always keen to find out more about our school culture, how our students treat each other and what value we place on academic achievement, sports and the arts.
The bottom line for us is always about students being inclusive, caring and committed to our values of excellence, respect, courage and integrity across all areas of school life.
What do you most enjoy about the role?
Definitely the people! I just love that I have the opportunity to work with the families and their children throughout the whole process. It is so satisfying to watch some of our most nervous new students grow into confident young people who shine every single day they are with us.
In your view, what is the best thing about ACG Tauranga?
The staff, without a doubt. We have such experienced approachable teachers supporting the students throughout their entire schooling. Everyone here is completely invested in our ACG Tauranga community.
What advice would you give parents looking for a school for their child?
I believe that families need to fully look into and understand every aspect of the schools they are considering. Truly understanding the curriculum and learning experiences on offer is valuable. More important than anything else though is observing the students who already attend the school. Children are exceptionally honest and if you take a moment to watch and listen, they will tell you everything you need to know.
Sharron will be available to meet you and answer any questions at ACG Tauranga’s next Open Day.
