Who We Are
New Zealand’s first fully arts-integrated school
A vision shaped by community, sparked by the arts, and grounded in research.
Since 2011, Ray and Maxine Nelson have led Ignite Arts Academy in Cambridge, helping thousands of young people discover confidence and joy through the arts,
a foundation that now inspires the vision for Ignite Academy Cambridge.
Our Vision
At Ignite Academy Cambridge, learning is alive and bursting with energy.
Where creativity fuels academic achievement and real-world problem solving, sparking imagination and innovation in every subject.
Through the arts, our learners reflect deeply, grow with courage, and collaborate across cultures.
Our Mission
At Ignite Academy Cambridge, our mission is to reimagine education through the power of the arts — making every subject an experience of creativity, joy, and purpose.
Core learning is active and meaningful: mathematics through rhythm, science through design challenges, history through role-play, literacy through drama and storytelling.
Every student has multiple pathways to shine and succeed. To strengthen this mission, we are in early conversations with the Oklahoma A+ Schools Institute (USA) to help bring this vision to life here in Aotearoa.
Our Core Values
Authenticity & Voice - Every learner grows their true voice with confidence and joy.
Compassion in Action - Expressed through kindness, respect, and service to others.
Creativity & Innovation - The arts spark imagination, problem-solving, and achievement.
Curiosity & Joy - Learning is alive, driven by wonder, discovery, and persistence.
Collaboration & Belonging - Families, teachers, and community walk the journey together.
