Redfield College was founded in 1986 by a group of parents and teachers, The PARED (Parents for Education) Foundation, on the principles that parents are the primary educators and that schools exist to give parents every support. This support is found in the quality of the academic curriculum, in the way that staff work with students and parents in the unique mentoring system, in the emphasis on character development and virtues in the curriculum, and in the concern that staff and peer example be fully positive and supportive of parents. Home and school are united. There is ongoing input to parents through a variety of programs all designed to assist parents to be more effective. Students at Redfield work hard, with responsibility in studies seen as a key to character development.

Redfield College places importance on the development of virtues seen as good habits, the building blocks of character. By developing strengths of character such as sound judgement, self control, courage and responsibility towards others, students are better able to use their freedom to make the right choices in life. Human and civic virtues are fostered.

The education at Redfield is personal. Each boy receives a personal mentor, or mentor, selected from the teaching staff of the College. The mentor is a constant source of support for the student through his attention, friendship, example and advice. He meets regularly with the student during the term, and meets with his parents at least once each term, reviewing progress, and helping with goal setting. The mentor takes a personal interest in the progress of the boys whom he mentors, acting on the parents’ behalf, and coordinating the services of the College for the family. In addition parental values receive reinforcement from a positive peer environment present through the College.