School Donations & Fees

Our Approach to Funding School Activities

At Fernside School, we are committed to providing a rich, forward-thinking curriculum that includes high-quality Outdoor Education (EOTC) and immersive learning experiences. To make these opportunities possible, we rely on the generous support of our school community through voluntary donations.

2026 Update: A New Yearly Approach

Following community feedback from our recent parent survey, we are moving away from requesting donations on a termly basis. Starting in 2026, the total yearly donation amount will be shared with families at the beginning of the school year.

This change is designed to provide:

• Greater Transparency: Families will have a clear overview of the total requested contribution for the year and how these funds support their child’s education.
• Flexible Payment Choice: To suit different household budgets, families can choose to pay the full amount upfront at the start of the year or spread payments across the year in smaller instalments.
  
  

What Your Donation Covers

Your contribution is vital to maintaining the quality of our programmes. These donations fund:

• Our Comprehensive EOTC Programme: All standard outdoor education experiences and class trips that form part of the core curriculum.
• Curriculum-Enhancing Activities: Visiting performers, specialised workshops, and hands-on learning resources.
• Essential Learning Support: Providing pupils with the tools and modern environments they need to thrive.

Without these donations, we would be unable to offer the high level of outdoor education and extra-curricular enrichment that Fernside School is known for.

Optional Activities (Charged Separately)

While the school donation covers the core curriculum and EOTC, there are some optional activities that are not covered by the donation scheme. The only extra payments we may request will be for voluntary activities that pupils or families choose to participate in, such as:

Transport to choir, kapa haka, or sports events
Optional programmes like Maths Buddy & Mathletics
Special trips (e.g., Year 8 Hanmer trip)

Flexible Payment Options

We understand that every family’s financial situation is different. You can manage your contributions through the following methods:

• Lump Sum: Pay the full yearly amount in February for simplicity.
• Staged Payments: Pay in four instalments (once per term).
• Regular Automatic Payments: Set up a weekly or fortnightly direct debit to spread the cost further.

Payments can also be made through the Hero App, or via Eftpos or Cash at the School Office. Please contact Sandi in the office if you need any assistance fernsideschool@fernside.school.nz or phone 03 313 8608.

Tax Benefits

As school donations are voluntary, you are eligible to claim a 33% tax credit from Inland Revenue. We can provide a donation receipt at the end of the tax year to assist you with this claim.