Wesley College Announces Closure Of Hostels At End Of 2025 School Year

20 Oct 2025, 09:22 by Wesley College · SCOOP

Wesley College Trust Board has today announced that the College’s boarding hostels will close at the end of term 4 for a period sufficient to ensure meaningful and lasting improvements are achieved

The decision follows ongoing concerns about student safety and hostel culture. While significant progress has been made in recent years – including improved supervision, safeguarding measures, and upgraded facilities – the Trust Board accepts that further deep, structural change is required.

“Student safety and wellbeing are our highest priority,” said Trust Board Chair Jan Tasker. “We acknowledge that our hostel provision has not yet met the consistent standard we expect. Closing the hostels is a decisive step that will allow us to reset the culture, systems, and facilities once and for all.”

The closure will take effect at the end of term 4, after students have completed NCEA and other end-of-year assessments, in order to minimise disruption to their academic success.

During the closure period, the Trust Board will undertake a comprehensive review of hostel operations, including culture, staffing, safeguarding, and infrastructure. The goal is to ensure that when the hostels reopen, they provide a safe, inclusive, and values-based environment.

Wesley College will work closely with families, staff, and the Methodist Church during this transition, and is committed to supporting boarders with accommodation and pastoral care options.

Advertisement - scroll to continue reading