At Marsden, we are proud of our strong academic foundations and our future-focused approach to teaching and learning. Our long-standing tradition of rigorous academic standards, combined with small class sizes and personalised support, ensures every student is known, challenged, and inspired to achieve at their best.
Unapologetic in the pursuit of continual improvement, we are delighted to announce the reintroduction of Cambridge International at Marsden in 2026. We know many families are seeking international curriculum opportunities to complement our already rigorous academic offering, and this development opens the door to enhanced pathways for our learners.
From next year, Marsden will begin its Cambridge journey by introducing Cambridge IGCSE Extended Mathematics for identified students in Years 10–11. This targeted addition provides further academic stretch and challenge within an area of established strength, and marks the beginning of wider Cambridge opportunities that will be explored as part of our ongoing curriculum development.
Why Cambridge?
Cambridge International is a globally recognised curriculum and assessment framework developed by the University of Cambridge. It emphasises deep understanding of concepts, critical thinking, and mastery of knowledge – values that align strongly with Marsden’s academic philosophy. Cambridge qualifications are taken in over 160 countries and are widely recognised by universities and employers worldwide.
How the programme will work
The Cambridge Extended Mathematics course will be offered to invited students as part of our Year 10 Extension Mathematics programme. It is a two-year pathway running alongside:
- NCEA Level 1 Mathematics, and
- The NCEA Numeracy co-requisite assessment.
Students will have the opportunity to sit the Cambridge IGCSE examination at the end of Year 11 (an
examination fee will apply).
Looking ahead
We are excited to be re-engaging with Cambridge in a focused and meaningful way. Beginning with a targeted area of excellence ensures strong foundations as we continue to develop a knowledge-rich and academically rigorous curriculum that both challenges and extends our learners.
If you have any questions about Cambridge Extended Mathematics or our wider curriculum development, please contact our Deputy Principal/Curriculum Lead, Jenny Caldwell, at jenny.caldwell@marsden.school.nz.