Dunstan High School is a modern, state co-educational Year 9 to Year 13 school situated in Alexandra - the commercial heart of Central Otago. We have a proud tradition of educating the young people of Central Otago and beyond - the school includes a hostel boarding facility for those students coming from further afield - and our roll is further enriched by International students who add a global perspective.

He mihi nui ki a koutou katoa Welcome to Dunstan High School

Dunstan High School was established in 1962 in the town of Alexandra - a town with strong links to historic goldmining, and now a thriving community which serves as a service centre to the surrounding horticulture, viticulture and tourism businesses that flourish in its immediate hinterland.

The school has an excellent reputation for academic, cultural and sporting achievement, and, just as importantly, participation. There are currently approximately 560 students on the roll, and the school is very much at the centre of the Alexandra community. 

The Board of Trustees is responsible for school governance in support of school management.

The Board of Trustees is made up of five elected parent representatives, an appointed Te Ao Huri representative, a staff representative, two student representatives and the Principal.

The current Board of Trustees (and their roles and portfolios) are:

Justine Baird (Presiding Member)

Kim Coombs (Secretary)

Alistair Banks (Academic)

Angela Connell (Policy)

George Flannery (Finance)

Carol Goodlass (Hostel)

Saul Bedford ( Property)

Mel Kuiti (Māori)

Andrew King (Principal)

Nick Meissel (Staff Representative)

Eve Sinnamon (Student Representative)

Tahlia Sangster (Student Representative)


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At Dunstan High School, our core values of Respect, Kindness, and Personal Excellence guide everything we do. These values help us create a positive and supportive environment where everyone can thrive. Here's what these values look like in action:

            
              

  Valuing ourselves, our environment and each other.
  • Listen Actively: Pay attention to and consider the viewpoints of peers and staff
  • Care for Property: Treat all school facilities, equipment, and the local environment with care.
  • Communicate Courteously: Address all members of the school community using polite and appropriate language. 
  • Respect Boundaries: Acknowledge and respect the personal space and privacy of others.
  Showing empathy, building a strong community
  • Be Inclusive: Actively ensure that all students are included in activities and feel a sense of belonging.
  • Offer Support: Proactively offer help to peers, especially those who may be struggling.
  • Communicate Courteously: Address all members of the school community using polite and appropriate language.
  • Use Encouraging Words: Use positive and uplifting language in all interactions.

  Striving for growth in everything we do
  • Be Prepared & Punctual: Arrive on time to all classes and activities with the necessary resources.
  • Set High Standards: Take pride in everything you do and consistently aim for the highest possible standard of quality.
  • Seek Feedback: Actively seek advice from staff and peers and use it constructively to improve.
  • Take Responsibility: Own your actions, learn from mistakes, and manage your learning and commitments effectively.

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Senior Leadership Team
Andrew King 
Principal

Michelle Tipene
Deputy Principal

Assessment & Reporting

Bryce Clapham
Deputy Principal

Pastoral Care & Attendance

Nigel Wilson
Assistant Principal

Our Staff

Dunstan High School has a teaching and administration staff of over 70 people. A full list of staff, including their roles, teaching areas and email addresses, can be found here.

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Mission Statement: We are committed to supporting students to be successful in all aspects of life                                                                 

Whāia te iti kahurangi ki te tūohu koe, me he maunga teitei                                                                                                                                                                                                            Pursue excellence—should you stumble, let it be to a lofty mountain

 Strategic Plan: The 2026-2028 Strategic Plan can be found below.


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Dunstan High School – Annual Implementation Plan 2025 - The plan focusses on three key areas:

  • Personal Excellence
  • Supportive environment 
  • Connection with Culture and Community

More details can be found in this document.

Dunstan High School Policies

Dunstan High School Policies and Procedures are now available to view through SchoolDocs. These can be accessed  by the whole school community using the link below:

SchoolDocs - DHS Policies and Procedures

USER NAME: dunstan

PASSWORD: dunstan

Quick Guide to SchoolDocs for the School Community can be found here.

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