Tupou College Brief Hisotry
Founded in 1866, Tupou College is the oldest secondary school in the Kingdom of Tonga and the Pacific Islands. The College was established by Reverend Dr James Egan Moulton, a Methodist missionary, under the authority of the Free Wesleyan Church of Tonga. It was created as a center for Christian education, academic learning, and leadership formation, part of the broader introduction of Western education and the Tongan alphabet to the Kingdom.
Early Development
The College’s first campus was located in Nukuʻalofa, on the grounds where Queen Salote College now stands. Initially, the school provided foundational education to young Tongan men, combining Christian discipleship, literacy, and practical skills.
Moves and Expansion
In the early 20th century, the school relocated to Nafualu, Sia’atoutai, on the site now occupied by Sia’atoutai Theological College. The move reflected the school’s growing enrollment and expanding role in Tongan education. In 1948, the College made its final move to its present location in Toloa, in the Eastern District of Tongatapu. This spacious campus, encompassing some 750 acres — allowed for academic facilities, boarding houses, agricultural projects, and a forest reserve that preserves native plant species.
Leadership and Growth
Throughout its history, Tupou College has been guided by dedicated principals. In the early years, most were missionaries from overseas who helped establish the College’s strong academic and spiritual foundations. A major era of growth occurred under Rev. A. Harold Wood (Principal 1924–1937), when enrolment increased dramatically. In 1970, the College appointed its first Tongan principal, Rev. Siupeli T. Taliai, marking a significant milestone in local leadership.
Educational Mission
From its founding, the College has emphasized Christian discipleship, academic excellence, and practical skills. Students live and study on campus for the duration of the school year, participating in worship, study, work, and recreational programs. The curriculum follows the standards of the Tongan Ministry of Education, with additional technical and traditional skills training that connects students with Tongan culture. In recent years, Tupou College has expanded its academic offerings through the introduction of an International Stream, aligned with the New South Wales Education Standards Authority (NESA), providing students with access to internationally recognised curriculum pathways while maintaining the College’s strong Christian and cultural foundations.
Tradition and Influence
Tupou College has played a central role in Tongan society for over 150 years. Its alumni include leaders in the church, government, education, and sports; most notably His Majesty King Taufa’ahau Tupou IV, who reigned from 1967 to 2006. The College has also maintained a historic relationship with Newington College in Sydney, Australia, which was founded by Dr Moulton shortly before he came to Tonga.
150th Anniversary and Legacy
In 2016, Tupou College celebrated its sesquicentenary (150 years) with special events and the opening of the Taufa’ahau Tupou IV Memorial Building by His Majesty King Tupou VI, highlighting the deep impact the College has had on education and leadership in Tonga. A commemorative history book was published, documenting the College’s journey from its beginnings to the present. Contact us for the quality hardback copies at a reasonable price.
