Getting to know our school

Founded in 1980, John Paul II High School is a Catholic Year 9 to 13 co-educational school serving the Westland area. John Paul II High School is the result of years of generosity and work by the Sisters of Mercy, Marist Brothers and Catholic families of the combined parishes the school serves.

The crest of John Paul II High School represents the Papal emblem of St Peter’s Keys and the triangular unity of the Holy Trinity.

Through their foresight and hard work, earlier generations of West Coast Catholics, the Marist Brothers and the Sisters of Mercy, established an excellent school in Greymouth for the Catholic young people of today.

By any standards John Paul II High School is a strong school with excellent teaching programmes, small classes and energetic and professional staff.

  • Special Character – the only Catholic secondary school on the West Coast
  • A smaller school with small classes and a great teacher to student ratio, meaning improved learning relationships
  • Student friendships maintained throughout school life and beyond
  • Old Marist or St Mary’s family connections, with other family members or a parent previously attending the school
  • Reputation and standing in the community and positive student attitudes
  • Very good academic record and teaching practices
  • New year 9 students integrate easily into school life
  • Whānau and family orientated with Christian beliefs and values

A Special Character that trains young people in:

KNOWLEDGE

The knowledge of the Church and of Christianity.

VALUES

Based on Jesus’ Greatest Commandment, Love God, love others, integrity.

LEADERSHIP

We give our students the skills, the practice and the confidence to play a leadership role in the Church of tomorrow.

Our School Haka

Learn our haka