At Marsden, we celebrate achievement in all its forms. Our awards programme reflects a culture where high expectations are paired with strong support, and where students are encouraged to pursue personal best while contributing meaningfully to the wider community.

Academic Excellence

Scholars' Awards

Academic excellence in the Senior School is recognised through our Scholars’ Awards programme.

Each year, students who achieve outstanding results in NCEA and New Zealand Scholarship are acknowledged at a formal Scholars’ Assembly held at the end of Term 1. These awards recognise sustained commitment, intellectual curiosity and exceptional academic performance.

Marsden also celebrates Year 12 students who work above their level by acknowledging those who achieve excellence at Level 3 standards or attain New Zealand Scholarship while still in Year 12. 

Scholars’ Awards are presented in two categories:

• Scholars’ Badges – recognising excellence
• Scholars’ Colours – recognising outstanding achievement

Students may receive one Scholars’ Award in a given year, based on their results.

View the Scholars’ Awards Criteria for detailed information about eligibility and thresholds.

New Zealand Scholarship

New Zealand Scholarship represents the highest level of secondary academic achievement. It recognises students who demonstrate exceptional critical thinking, depth of understanding and the ability to apply knowledge independently.

Scholarship is an integral part of Marsden’s academic culture. Students are encouraged and supported to pursue Scholarship across a wide range of subjects, with structured preparation and extension embedded within senior programmes.

Our consistent Scholarship success reflects the intellectual discipline, curiosity and ambition fostered throughout the Senior School years.

Top scholars for 2024

Dux and Top Academic Awards

Each year at our Senior School Prize Giving, Marsden recognises outstanding academic performance through our prestigious Dux and Top Academic Awards. These honours acknowledge sustained excellence, commitment to learning and exceptional achievement across subjects.

Clear criteria ensure transparency and fairness, while encouraging students to aim high throughout their Senior School journey.

Cocurricular Awards

Achievement at Marsden extends well beyond the classroom.

Each year we hold dedicated Sports Awards and Performing Arts Awards evenings to celebrate students who demonstrate:

• exceptional performance
• commitment and growth
• leadership
• outstanding service.

These events recognise the breadth of talent within our community and the importance we place on holistic education.

Tertiary Scholarships

Many Marsden students go on to receive competitive university scholarships in recognition of their academic achievement, leadership and contribution. These awards open doors to leading institutions in New Zealand and internationally.

Inspiring Girls to Achieve

Our awards programme is not simply about prizes — it reflects a culture where effort is valued, excellence is nurtured, and achievement is celebrated.

At Marsden, we encourage every student to pursue their strengths, set ambitious goals and take pride in their accomplishments.