A school with a Christian philosophy

Press, 4 April 1989, Page 33

A school with a Christian philosophy

Middleton Grange is a school with a special character which has been at the centre of its philosophy since its inception. It provides a Christian education in which the various educational disciplines are presented in the context of a biblical view of the world and life.

Today the interdenominational co-educational school has a primary department with 350 pupils land a secondary department with 600 pupils. The school seeks to teach a Christian, Godcentred view as opposed to man-centred, materialistic and secular values. This comes through all parts of the curriculum." Subjects are taught in a way which reflects a biblical view of life, says the principal, Mr Dick Oliver. Staff and board members are required to be committed and practising Christians and are required to reaffirm their faith every year. It is notable that during the last five years, the

rolls of independent schools have increased by seven per cent. Middleton Grange’s roll has increased by 21.9 per cent during this. time, Mr Oliver says. He believes the school’s clearly set standards, firm discipline and the caring family atmosphere are all important in . attracting pupils to the school. The school has high academic standards and performs well in external examinations, and at the same time has a wellaccepted programme for students with learning difficulties. It has an excellent music department and had had considerable sporting success. Its peer support programme is very successful. Links with overseas schools in Japan, Bangkok, South India and mainland China

give pupils a new perspective. Middleton Grange was founded in 1963 by a group of Christian professional and businessmen from various denominations, united in the belief that children needed a firm, spiritual foundation to prepare them for responsibilities and leadership in later life. Soon after the decision to establish the school, the five acre property in Acacia Avenue, Upper Riccarton, was purchased. The original homestead, built in about 1856, became the focal point of the school. Sixty-six pupils commenced at the school on the first day. The founding principal was Peter Chignell. Mr Eric Dunlop was the principal from 1967-1983.