Crimson AGE School Brings Families on a Bold New Chapter in Learning
From AGE to Crimson AGE School - this marks not just a new name for our boutique private school in Takapuna, but an exciting new chapter in the school’s journey and our bold vision to become Auckland’s most progressive school.
Crimson AGE School is now part of Crimson Academies and we’re reimagining what education looks like for the 22nd century. By joining forces with Crimson Global Academy, families will have choice in a hybrid model of learning that gives families the best of both worlds – a modern on-campus learning experience combined with access to a world-class online school.
Why the Rebrand?
This shift to become Crimson AGE School represents the access to resources and the future-building of our school within Crimson Academies, a global network of schools united by a commitment to innovation in education.
“Crimson AGE School represents our belief that learning should personalised and be determined by ability, not age.” - Penelope Barton, CEO and Co-Founder of Crimson Academies
What Makes Crimson AGE School Unique
At Crimson AGE, flexibility isn't just a buzzword, it’s a fundamental approach to education that recognises every student's unique learning journey. Our framework is built on personalised timetables, competency-based progression, and the freedom to choose learning environments and assessment pathways. This ensures each student can optimise their education while maintaining rigorous academic standards.
While many schools speak of innovation, Crimson AGE delivers it in practice. Here are the qualities that set us apart:
Personalised Learning & Timetables: Every student creates an individual schedule that reflects their pace, passions, and goals.
Learning by Ability, Not Age: Competency-based progression allows students to advance when they are ready, not when their birthday says so.
Small, Supportive Environment: Learners benefit from deep engagement and 1:1 academic and wellbeing support.
Passion-Based Learning: We nurture students’ personal interests, integrating them into meaningful projects and pathways, for example, writing and producing a play to perform for families, setting up pest control at our farm property, and producing our own published piece of work written by students.
Autonomy & Ownership: Students take a leading role in shaping their journey, developing responsibility and independence along the way. For example, if a student develops a strong interest in a particular field, they are encouraged to take ownership of their learning by exploring it in depth, while the school provides the guidance, flexibility, and resources needed to support their growth.
Flexibility From a Hybrid Learning Model: Students can choose their learning environment (classroom, home) and learning is possible across different curriculum pathways: A-Level (in-person/online hybrid), NCEA (in-person core + online electives).
At Crimson AGE, students are not restricted by what a single campus can offer. Instead, they’re part of a borderless learning community with opportunities that extend well beyond traditional schooling.
“Crimson AGE is a place where the whole child is supported; not just in their academics, but in discovering who they are. Our role is to help students uncover their passions and then guide them in developing the skills and confidence to turn those passions into meaningful pathways for their future.” - Sarah Turner, Principal Crimson AGE School
The Curriculum at Crimson AGE
The curriculum is focused on fundamental life skills and real-world application. Alongside the foundational subjects, Crimson AGE students experience learning beyond the curriculum with the following subjects:
Design Thinking & Innovation
Entrepreneurship
Financial Literacy
Sustainability
Outdoor Learning
Mastery of Emerging Technologies
This ensures that while academic excellence remains central, our learners also build the critical skills, creativity, and resilience they need for the 21st century.
"We understand that the future will ask more of our young people than academics. That’s why we place equal importance on fostering collaboration, empathy, and resilience, while also building their confidence in critical thinking, creativity, and technology. These are the skills that will help our students not only navigate the world ahead, but contribute to shaping it in meaningful ways.” - Sarah Turner, Principal Crimson AGE School
Crimson AGE and CGA
Both CGA and Crimson AGE share a philosophy: education should fit the student, not the other way around.
CGA pioneered online schooling as the first registered online high school in New Zealand, that is built around flexibility and international pathways. Crimson AGE takes this ethos into the physical classroom, offering the close-knit care of an in-person school, enriched by CGA’s global curriculum, specialist teachers, and international subject options such as IGCSEs and A-Levels.
Together, we give students both the local grounding of a New Zealand school community and the global reach that only Crimson can provide.
What This Means for Families
For parents, Crimson AGE School means greater choice, opportunity, and flexibility. Your child is no longer limited by geography, teacher availability, or traditional structures.
For students, it means being stretched and supported in equal measure, exploring new subjects, engaging with inspiring teachers, and belonging to a community that values them as individuals.
What’s Ahead?
As part of Crimson Academies, Crimson AGE is positioned to set new benchmarks for education in New Zealand. The future is bold, ambitious, and deeply student-centered. Crimson AGE School is committed to innovation, to families, and to preparing the next generation of learners for a rapidly changing world.
Primary Hybrid Trial: Paving the Way for Younger Learners
We have now started trialling a hybrid learning model for primary students, two days in-person, three days online. The trial, which includes the CEO’s own son, is already yielding valuable insights.
For younger learners, this approach offers the security of in-person relationships while gradually fostering independence and digital fluency.
Innovation in Action: AI Leadership
We’re embracing the Impact AI will have in education by piloting different tech to enhance teacher and student experiences.
We are also committed to influencing the wider education sector.
Be Part of the Future of Learning
Crimson AGE School is more than just a school. It’s a gateway to the future of learning. By blending local strength with global opportunity, personalisation with community, and tradition with innovation, we are redefining what education looks like in New Zealand.