2026 March Graduation

By Andrew Burgess

I am very pleased to update you on the progress of the College so far in 2026.

2026 Enrolments
2026 enrolments are close to 2025 levels, and those were a record for the college. This is very encouraging, especially as some students faced greater financial challenges due to scholarship changes.  Because of this uncertainty, one major stakeholder has fewer students with us in 2026, but intends to increase numbers in 2027 which is encouraging.


Orientation week
Our Orientation week took place in February, with students coming from various parts of the Nelson Diocese, Wellington and Auckland. The week emphasised building community and developing the culture that we want the College to have throughout the year – a focus on discipleship, worship, the place of scripture in our College and on the formation of community. Feedback relayed to staff suggested this was the best Orientation week we have run.


Vision for 2026
As a college, we serve God’s Church across Nelson and in the Anglican world beyond Nelson. We base our work on our faith and expectation in what God is doing in the Church and into the world. For this reason we continue with these key emphases:

  • The authority of scripture as central to all our teaching and training

  • Discipleship and obedience to Christ as the heart of service and leadership

  • Deep relationships and community as key to this formation as disciples

  • A focus on the Church as the community of God’s mission and outreach

It is these things that make our teaching and training valuable in forming leaders who can serve effectively and with integrity in the mission of God.


Ongoing support - Going the Distance
We see significant financial challenges ahead and recognise that we must develop our own funding base to continue our vision. One response to that is the “Going the Distance” initiative launched by Bishop Steve (see over).

I and the staff greatly value and appreciate the support of our friends and donors - financial, prayer and other. As we look to 2026 and beyond, I ask you to keep praying for God to provide the funding and support we need to remain true to our mission.

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