Innovation - 2023 Finalist
Crimson Global Academy
Auckland, New Zealand
Breaking the boundaries of virtual education
Crimson Global Academy, a virtual school founded in Auckland, New Zealand, with students joining live classes from 55 countries around the world, is revolutionising education by embracing innovative approaches to teaching and learning. Recognising the challenges posed by 100% virtual education, the school has designed a comprehensive programme that not only mitigates the shortcomings of virtual learning but also nurtures healthy and thriving student communities. Through a combination of expert educators, cutting-edge technology, and personalised instruction, Crimson Global Academy is redefining the boundaries of online education.
The school’s ability to assemble a team of highly experienced educators and school operators has been instrumental in surpassing the limitations of virtual education and has laid the foundation for its success. Its approach to instruction incorporates weekly live sessions, both group and individual meetings, a virtual badging system to promote engagement, and a community platform that empowers students to take on leadership opportunities. Furthermore, its faculty-led student clubs, in-person meetups, and comprehensive career and university guidance provide a holistic and enriching educational experience.
One of the key innovations is Crimson Global Academy’s flexibility in delivering a mix of group and one-on-one instruction. This flexibility enables students to schedule their studies for maximum productivity, access appropriately challenging courses across subjects without grade-level limitations, and benefit from the expertise of top-tier teachers.
Crimson Global Academy has seen exceptional achievements through its innovative approach. Consistently surpassing global averages, 40% of students achieve a score of 5 on their AP exams, compared to the global average of 12%. Additionally, 45% of students achieve a perfect 9/9 on their IGCSE exams. Such academic results have opened doors for students, with many gaining acceptance into prestigious universities worldwide, including Columbia, Harvard, Oxford, and Cambridge.
This success is particularly noteworthy considering Crimson Global Academy is only three years old, but it is further underscored by a 3rd-place ranking for Online High School in America by Niche.com.
If Crimson Global Academy wins the World's Best School Prize for Innovation, it will use the prize to expand their Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) programming. Being a fully virtual institution, it understands the importance of students prioritising their mindset, motivation, and overall mental wellbeing every day, regardless of their social needs. By strengthening their SEL initiatives, it aims to provide enhanced support and resources, enabling students to thrive emotionally, academically, and personally in the virtual learning environment.

