CGA Introduces a 4-Day School Week - Here's Why it's Working

At Crimson Global Academy (CGA), we’ve never been afraid to challenge the status quo. As New Zealand’s first fully registered online private high school, we’ve spent the past five years empowering students to push the boundaries of what’s possible in education. Now, we’re taking our next bold step: transitioning to a 4-day school week.

A Smarter Schedule for a New Era of Learning

Today’s students are navigating a complex world. Between extracurricular commitments, personal interests, and the pursuit of academic excellence, traditional schooling models are struggling to keep up.

Our community – now over 2,000 enrolled students worldwide, with a growing number from New Zealand – reflects a new generation of learners who are demanding greater flexibility, deeper learning, and a more balanced life.

We’ve embraced a more dynamic model that reflects the changing demands of our world,” says CGA Deputy Principal Ronan Kearney, "The 4-day week creates space for both academic excellence and personal growth.

Rather than attending back-to-back classes from Monday to Friday, students now use Fridays for enrichment, internships, community service, leadership, clubs, and real-world experiences — all while continuing to pursue their academic goals through our globally recognised curricula.

The LIFE Programme: Learning Beyond the Classroom

This new model is underpinned by CGA’s LIFE programme, which stands for:

• Lifelong learning
• Interacting with others
• Focus outward
• Exploration and self-agency

Delivered through form times, assemblies, and Friday enrichment sessions, LIFE equips students with the skills and mindset to thrive in life beyond school. From financial literacy and passion projects to physical wellbeing and service learning, CGA students are becoming well-rounded, future-ready leaders.

Flexible Learning for Talented, Driven Students

CEO Penelope Barton notes that CGA’s four-day week is a natural evolution for the school’s already flexible learning model.

Our students often juggle elite sports, performing arts, entrepreneurship, or passion projects. They need a school that flexes around their ambitions — not the other way around.

At CGA, students choose from live small-group classes, 1:1 instruction, or asynchronous learning — all taught by expert educators and aligned with the world’s most respected curriculums: International GCSEs, A-Levels, APs, and the US High School Diploma.

The school’s growth reflects this value. More than 49% of CGA students study above their age level, and many join to accelerate their academic journey toward top universities like Oxford, Cambridge, and the Ivy League. Explore our outstanding 2025 university admissions results.

Student-athletes in New Zealand are also increasingly enrolling at CGA for it's flexible scheduling. 14-year-old Hattie, from Auckland, is a passionate equestrian, who recently led the school's first equestrian team and is greatly benefitting from the extra day to dedicate to her sport.

Outstanding Early Results

Following comprehensive surveys with parents, students, and teachers, CGA has seen overwhelming support for the 4-day school week. Among the findings:

• 89.7% of students feel more focused during lessons
• 85.9% say they can better manage their academic workload
• 88.5% feel more productive with personal learning goals
• 79.3% of parents observed reduced stress in their children
• 84.6% of teachers expressed optimism about long-term benefits

Our educators, too, have gained protected time for mentoring, collaboration, and curriculum innovation — strengthening outcomes for students while enhancing staff wellbeing.

A Global, Inclusive, and Nurturing School Environment

From across Aotearoa and beyond, CGA is attracting high-performing students seeking a safe, supportive learning environment.

Students managing anxiety, those with neurodiverse learning needs, and young people experiencing bullying in traditional settings are finding a new path at CGA. With small classes, a dedicated pastoral team, and full-time counsellors, CGA offers individualised care alongside academic challenge.

The CGA student body includes a Juilliard music scholar, a grand chess master, and a world fencing champion — proof that excellence thrives when learning meets flexibility.

Reimagining Education for a Changing World

Founded by New Zealand entrepreneur Jamie Beaton, CGA is part of the Crimson Education network — a global leader in academic mentoring and university admissions to the world’s most competitive institutions.

With the introduction of our 4-day school week, we’re continuing to reimagine education for the next generation — blending rigour, flexibility, and purpose.

We’re not just preparing students for exams" says Mr Kearney, "We’re preparing them for life.

Could your Child Benefit From a 4-Day School Week?

If you’re a student or parent in New Zealand exploring a more flexible, future-focused education model, learn more about how CGA’s innovative 4-day academic week can help your child thrive.