Hauraki Plains College

English

Design and Visual Communication

Food Technology

Hauora

Hauora

Mathematics

Media Studies

Metal Work

Music

Science

Science

Social Studies

Social Studies

Social Studies

Te Reo Maori

Visual Art

Wood Work 

This course is based on gaining confidence in practical and theory skills. Students will produce a folio of supporting material that will include design and construction processes and students will produce an individually designed product to specifications. The course is designed to give students, who are interested, preparation for Level 1 Technology and to experiment with a mixture of CAD and hands on practical skills.

Be physical and express yourself! In this course you will build confidence, learn, create and perform. You’ll have fun working in groups and pairs to try new ideas. Dance teaches you how to think creatively, problem-solve and collaborate. There are opportunities to perform if you want to. Dance is good for brain development, memory and physical and mental health. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced, this course will help you grow your skills. It leads to further study of Dance at NCEA Levels 1, 2 and 3. Dance is a University Entrance-approved subject that helps you get into university too!

The design and visual communication course at Year 10 is structured around developing skills in instrumental drawing and freehand sketching. The principal units of study are: Geometrical drawing, pictorial drawing, orthographic and freehand sketching. Students are also engaged in Graphic Design and produce design folios in spatial and architectural design. The drawing skills and design work establish a platform for study at NCEA the following year.

The digital curriculum is about teaching students how to design their own digital solutions and become creators, not just users, of digital technologies, to prepare them for the modern workforce. A range of concepts, knowledge, and skills will be covered to assist students during and beyond their schooling careers. This will be done through exploring facets of digital technology such as basic and advanced coding, 3D modelling, and photo manipulation. Students will develop an understanding of the wide scope and complexity of this field and career opportunities.

Year 10 Drama is your chance to create scenes, characters, and moments that actually come alive. You’ll use: Body, Space, Movement and Voice to build performances with your group — the same tools actors use onstage. It’s hands-on, creative, and loads of fun. You’ll grow in confidence, learn how to work with different people, and try things you don’t get to do in any other subject. Because we rely on each other in our groups, turning up and being ready for each lesson really matters. If you’re into performing, storytelling, or just want to give something new a go, Year 10 Drama sets you up perfectly for NCEA Drama in Years 11, 12 and 13.

This is a one term course deigned to increase your awareness of business and the economy in general. You will be introduced to Entrepreneurship, Accounting, Economics and Marketing, relating these subjects to current news and possible career pathways. Completing this course will also make it easier for you decide on whether you will want to take Commerce related subjects during year 11. You will also demonstrate your creativity by joining a team that will create a product after conducting marketing research.

The Year 10 Food Technology course is for students interested in developing their cookery skills and knowledge about food. The focus of the course will be learning and using a range of basic food preparation and cookery skills as well as kitchen safety and hygiene. Students will use the design process to research, plan and make healthy kai.

This course builds on from the Year 9 Media Studies course by delving deeper into narrative structure, visual language and writing effective dialogue. Students will work in small groups to research the conventions of a selected genre, write a script, learn about how to block a scene, and then shoot and edit a short film.

This course continues to build upon students’ musical skills from Year 9. If students wish to take NCEA Level 1 Music, it is advised that they take this course. Students taking Year 10 Music will be enrolled for two terms so that they can be fully prepared for NCEA Level 1. This means you will be able to choose two other options for the year.

Attendance at itinerant instrument lessons is a requirement. These lessons are offered free once a week and include piano, guitar, bass guitar, drums, vocals, saxophone, trumpet, woodwind, and trombone. This course allows students to participate in group work as they form bands and collaborate on performance projects. Students learn skills in songwriting, music production and will compose and record original songs. 

Primary Industries covers both Agriculture and Horticulture and is a mix of hands-on experiences and classroom learning each week. Students learn about propagation at the school’s horticulture area and are allocated a vegetable garden bed to maintain. On the school farm, students are introduced to basic concepts in livestock farming (cattle and poultry), orchard maintenance and health and safety. The course includes a personal research project in which students choose a primary industry to investigate.

Students in Year 10 Te Reo Māori will have the opportunity to further extend their knowledge of Te Reo and Tikanga. The purpose of this course is to provide a pathway for students who are looking to further their education in Māori Studies at NCEA. Students taking Year 10 Te Reo Māori will be enrolled for two terms so that they can be fully prepared for NCEA Level 1. This means you will be able to choose two other options for the year. 

By learning Te Reo, students are able to participate with understanding and confidence in situations where Te Reo and Tikanga are important and to integrate language and cultural understandings in their lives.  

Year 10 Engineering (Technology Metal) offers a challenging and rewarding workshop experience for students who have an interest in mechanical engineering and also for students who wish to widen their horizons by trying something new. This is a skills-based programme underpinned by theoretical knowledge of the tools and processes encountered by students during their project work. Students will produce a folio of research assignment work which will enhance their understanding of the equipment and processes they encounter in their project work.

This course is based on gaining confidence in practical and theory skills. Students will produce a folio of supporting material that will include design and construction processes and students will produce an individually designed product to specifications. The course is designed to give students, who are interested, preparation for Level 1 Technology in NCEA or industry training standards for Year 11 students.

In Year 10 Textile classes, students will learn to apply design thinking to create textile products. They will investigate, explore, develop, and model prototypes based on material properties. The project involves designing a cushion cover that reflects cultural backgrounds, using techniques and sewing skills acquired during the term.

This 'PIMP MY RIDE' Visual Art course is for students who are interested in art and like to create. This course is structured around developing skills and knowledge critical towards preparing students for NCEA Level 1 Visual Art. The main learning objectives are to: observe, experiment, paint, draw and think creatively. Students are reintroduced to the Year 9 Art Principles and Elements, although new to art students are welcome. Through scaffolding and step by step learning, students will research, plan and create a skateboard design for their skateboard artwork.

In this mostly outdoor class, we will propagate, plant and care for native trees, take care of the school vegetable gardens and orchard, and explore the local environment. In class, we will learn about local and global environmental issues and what we can do about them. As part of this course, you will work in groups to design a project that improves sustainability outcomes for our community. Projects can include topics such as protecting nature and wildlife, pest management (trapping), sustainability in sport, waste and recycling, energy systems, and sustainable lifestyles such as fast fashion.

In Year 10 Spanish, students will learn to communicate using basic vocabulary and phrases about everyday topics such as school, family, free time, food, and hobbies. They will create fun and meaningful tasks like short conversations, cultural mini-projects, and simple written pieces that help build real confidence in using the language. Students will also explore the rich cultures of the Spanish-speaking world through music, celebrations, and stories. This is the perfect subject for curious learners who want to discover a new language, broaden their worldview, and set the foundation for future language success.

Te Whakaari: Our Stories on Stage

Do you love performing? Or have you always wanted to try drama but never had the chance? Then this is the course for you!

Drama is all about stepping into someone else’s shoes, telling stories that matter, and building the confidence to speak, move, and create on stage. You'll learn acting skills, how to work with a script, and even how to create your own original scene. We play drama games, workshop ideas, and rehearse as a team – no sitting behind desks here, just active, hands-on fun!

You’ll finish the year by performing in either a play or a selection of scenes in front of a small invited audience of friends and whānau. Your performance will also be filmed for  your external assessment. Along the way, you'll explore the role of theatre in Aotearoa, reflect on your own mahi, and support others as we build a strong drama whānau.

Drama opens doors to creative careers in film, theatre, gaming, events, media, design, communication and offers leadership opportunities with school-wide events.

Click on the two links below to watch two short videos about why YOU should do Drama!

Why Study Drama?

Why Study Drama? Student Voice

Unlock your creativity and refine your performance skills in an immersive program dedicated to the art of telling your story through music. From composition to collaboration, this course will guide you through the intricacies of crafting melodies and harnessing your unique 'voice' through songwriting. Learn about the music of Aotearoa, dive into new genres, experiment with sounds, and showcase your talent in performances through this course. 

Performing on your instrument and attending weekly lessons are part of the expectations of this course.

Why Study Music?

Te Haerenga - The Journey          

Get ready to explore your own story through art! In this creative and hands-on course, you’ll go on a journey into the world of taonga (treasured possessions), and use that knowledge to connect with your culture and personal identity. You’ll experiment with drawing, painting, and mixed media to create meaningful artworks that reflect your own heritage and journey. It’s all about finding your voice through visual storytelling and building your own collection of work to be proud of.

No prior experience needed – just bring your imagination and a willingness to give things a go!

Students will explore Mathematics and Statistics in real-life contexts with a focus on becoming Numerate through applying Number skills, recognising and using Geometrical properties, Measuring, and Collecting or Analysing Data.

This course is focused on preparing students to achieve their Numeracy credits.

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Mathematics, where real-life scenarios modelled by Numbers, Algebra and Trigonometry take centre stage in this course. You will also discover the power of Mathematical reasoning, and develop problem-solving skills in Measurement and Statistics that transcend theoretical boundaries. 

This course prepares students for the Year 12CAL Course. To handle the demands of this course, it is strongly recommended for students to have passed their Numeracy exam.

Collecting and analysing data, making inferences, observing patterns over time, conducting simulations and making detailed reports. If these Statistical skills appeal to you, you will be well placed to succeed in this course. You will also explore number skills and algebraic models that would further develop and support your mathematical reasoning.

This course prepares students for the Year 12 MatS Course. To handle the demands of this course, it is strongly recommended for students to have passed their Numeracy exam.

This course covers a range of Calculus based standards (Internals and Externals) and is a good basis for the Level 3 Calculus course. Students will need access to a graphics calculator, laptop/Chromebook and student workbook. Students must complete both externally assessed standards to be eligible for the Level 3 Calculus course the following year.

This course is all about basic skills and learning that you can use in the farming sector. Students will have opportunities to learn on Hayward Farm and in the classroom space. Students will learn skills that will be used if they are on a farm, it will give them confidence in completing these activities.  There will also be learning about how to be a good employee and how to find the right pathway within the primary sector.  

This is a unit standards course and has essential learning for those wanting to take the Trades Academy course in the following year.  It is a benefit for students to live on a farm, but is not essential.  

STUDENTS CANNOT TAKE 11 AGH IF THEY TAKE THIS COURSE

Students must have an interest in animals, machinery and not mind getting their hands and sometimes themselves dirty. 

It is important that students show respect and maturity when on the farm and follow instructions this is for health and safety reasons as there are times when activities have an element of danger, particularly when students misuse tools or big machinery.  If this guidelines are not followed then the student will be asked to leave the class.  

This is aimed at Year 12 students, but a select few Year 11's may be selected.  You must apply first, see below for instructions. 

Students will be interviewed for this course and will be asked to write an application.  Commitment to course completion will need to be agreed to.  Come to room 43 to get an application form.  Letter to be given to Mrs Dyer by the 1st of September.

The aim of this course is to help you learn basic skills which will be required in the Primary Sector.  We aim to teach you a mix of skills which can be used in both the Agriculture and Horticulture sector.  If you complete the required course you will gain a Trades recognised Level 2 Primary Industries ITO Certificate.  

This course will run over three lines of the timetable.  

This is a Unit Standards course and those who choose the course will not be able to choose 12 Agriculture.  

There will be one day of week required for work experience, students can choose their own agriculture or horticulture based placement, or the school will help you find one.  

Attendance to all days at school is imperative to be able to pass and gain your industry recognised Level 2 Primary ITO certificate.

Building for the Future is a Level 1 Building and Construction course that will enable students to gain basic workshop processes, construction skills and knowledge that will be required in a Building and Construction vocational pathway.

This course is particularly suited to students wishing to pursue a career in the Hospitality and Services sector or living independently. Students will learn the basic food hygiene, knife and cooking skills that will set the students up to continue down the hospitality vocational pathway. This will enable them to enter the Hospitality Industry or remain at school and continue with Level 2 Hospitality and/or Level 2 Food Technology.

Design and Visual Communication involves expressing visual literacy through the development of design ideas using traditional drawing techniques and CAD to resolve a final design derived from a given brief.

This course is designed to provide students with knowledge of the world around them and how they can successfully navigate information that is provided through various forms of media. Students successful in this course will be well-prepared for the Level 2 Earth Science course.

An introduction to basic engineering processes. This course has been designed for those students who wish to develop a wide range of practical skills and some design skills in Engineering. Suitable for students who may wish to consider employment in one of the construction industries.

Students will use garment construction techniques to design and make their own original designs for clothing and other textile products. As part of this they will learn to use sewing machines and textile tools confidently and safely. Students will work on a number of different projects during the year.  Assessments will be tailored to each student’s ability and interests, using a combination of achievement and unit standards.

Students will explore the concept of Manaakitanga using a context of celebrations and providing food as a gift.

Students will follow the design process learning a range of basic cookery skills/techniques. A chosen stakeholder will be selected to create a suitable food product for and specialist research will be required. A folio of evidence is to be generated, including research of context and research outcomes, recipe testing, concepts for food products, stakeholder feedback and sensory evaluation along with annotated photos.

This course is suited for students who continue to work toward achieving the Numeracy Common Assessment Activity (CAA). The focus will be on preparing students for the Numeracy (CAA). Some students will be offered the opportunity to attempt a Level 1 Mathematics assessment standard, but this is dependent on their progress throughout the year. This course does not lead on to any Mathematics courses at Level 2.

This course has been designed for those students who wish to develop a wide range of practical skills and some design skills. Suitable for students who may wish to consider employment in one of the construction industries.

This course is designed to introduce students to a wide range of elements that form part of the exciting and ever-changing world of I.T. You will be challenged to learn basic animation concepts, game design and development, and programming skills. Students will have a fully functional game by the end of the year.

Optionally/additionally, Ara P-TECH (Pathways in Technology) is an exciting program  aimed at giving students opportunities to engage with the world of work so that they can successfully navigate their careers.

A student choosing Level 1 Ara P-TECH would be considering a career in the IT Industry. They will also be considering continuing with Ara P-TECH at Levels 2 and 3, after which they will be supported to continue in Ara P-TECH and pathway into tertiary with the Ara P-TECH tertiary partners. Paid internships will also be offered for all Ara P-TECH students committing to the 5-year pathway. Students are not required to commit for year 11.

Using decision-making skills, take charge of your health in our course designed specifically for teenagers.  Dive into the concept of hauora. Learn how everyday choices can enhance your wellbeing and explore the factors that influence your hauora.  Through engaging activities, real-life scenarios, and practical tips, this course will empower you to make informed decisions that support a healthier, happier you.  Ready to take control of your health journey? Join us and discover the keys to thriving in every aspect of your life! 

Hospitality, Retail, Commerce, Tourism Trades Academy

This course is designed to give students a wide range of food hygiene, service, barista and culinary skills that will prepare them for Level 2 and 3 or a future in either the hospitality industry or further training There will be approx 50 credits available for the whole course over the three lines of class time. If you are wanting to go into the commerce, tourism, retail hospitality industry this course will give you real life skills. This course involves 3 lines of classwork and hands-on practical sessions, which will involve work placement in a working business. Mrs Sayer will lead the new course with extensive knowledge in business, hospitality and teaching. This is a combined Yr 11 and 12 class, application process will apply if oversubscribed. If you are a year 11 student there will be a mix of Level 1 and level 2 standards similar to the program below.

Students will be exposed to career pathways in Business Studies, Economics, Accounting and Agribusiness. Your entrepreneurial skills will be developed when your team’s business participates in the school market. You will learn from local business leaders about how our economy is integrated into the global market. Utilising the Hayward Farm, you will be introduced to financial decision making and the responsible use of resources in harmony with the environment.

The internal assessments of the course comprises report based assessments that cover work done throughout the year. They are surrounding the ideas of:

●      Understanding of foundational concepts of justice

●      Understanding of concepts of law

●      Understanding of law-making processes

●      Demonstrate understanding of litigation and dispute resolution processes in New Zealand

If you did not pass both your reading and writing CAA exam and want to strengthen your English skills and work toward achieving the Literacy credits, this course is for you. You will develop key reading and writing skills through practical, real-world topics and activities. The course is designed to build your confidence and prepare you for success in the CAA Literacy standards.

Students will gain the skills and knowledge they require to competently and confidently identify, interpret and work with both primary and secondary source material. 

Whether that is analysing a speech by Winston Churchill, interpreting the propaganda produced within Nazi Germany, or conducting research about Desert Storm, students will gain skills that will prepare them for future learning and life beyond the classroom.

Learn how to grow, care and harvest vegetables and fruit commercially as you help to establish our new market garden at Hayward Farm.

You will also have your very own garden bed in the school's horticulture area, where you will choose what to grow, experiment with cropping techniques and take home what you grow.

Most lessons will be outdoors, focusing on the development and maintenance of the horticultural area, which includes an extensive fruit orchard and a new market garden site.

Be prepared to get your hands dirty and also be prepared to be able to work in class and learn the theory behind growing.  

"Sport doesn’t just build character; it reveals it."

From the sideline to the stadium, sport plays a major role in shaping identity, values, and culture. In this course, we’ll use sport as a lens to explore storytelling, language, and communication. Through engaging with documentaries, short stories, speeches, articles, and film, we’ll examine how sport teaches lessons about teamwork, leadership, decision-making, discipline, and more.

Whether you’re on the field or cheering from the stands, sport is full of powerful stories that connect us, challenge us, and teach us about life. This course gives you the opportunity to reflect on your own experiences, analyse how language influences audiences, and develop your skills in speaking, writing, and presenting – all through the world of sport.

This course explores the charming yet deceptive world of cozy crime — murder mysteries set in seemingly idyllic communities, often solved by unlikely amateur detectives. Students will read, watch, and analyse texts from this genre, unravelling how authors build tension without graphic violence, create memorable sleuths, and construct intricate plots. Along the way, students will practise their own detective skills: close reading, critical thinking, and creative storytelling.

In this course we will explore magical worlds, fantastical and wonderful. Our quest will reveal the common threads that weave through these stories, such as heroic quests, mythical creatures, and the eternal struggle between light and darkness. We shall also examine how these narratives reflect societal values, convey moral lessons, and ignite our imaginations.

This course is designed for students enchanted by the allure of mythical tales and fantastical worlds. It also invites those who wish to enhance their critical thinking and analytical skills while exploring literature.

This course allows students a further year to keep improving their Literacy and Numeracy skills. It provides students 60 credits in this approved programme to gain the New Zealand Certificate in Foundation Skills Level 1. Foundation Studies supports students to experience success and move on to NCEA Level 2 with all available courses, including school opportunities such as Skills/Trades Academy, Gateway, and STAR-funded opportunities. This programme takes up four out of the six lines on a student’s timetable.    

The Year 11 Outdoor Education course is based around enjoyable, challenging outdoor experiences such as rock climbing, mountain biking, team building, tramping and camping. The course is a mixture of Achievement Standards and Unit Standards.

You MUST be:

MOTIVATED! Wanting to turn up to every lesson, practical trip and experience with the mindset to give things a try and work well with your classmates

SAFE! Outdoor Education needs students who can follow instructions and ensure the safety of others. This is very important in potentially high-risk environments such as rock climbing, where you are required to tie, and check your own knots & connections

SOCIABLE! The Level 1 course is based around shared experiences in all environments. If you work well with others, and love the outdoors, this is the course for you.

This course focuses on outlining how each of the different science disciplines have real life applications.  Students succeeding in this course will have a solid foundation in Physics, Biology and Chemistry. Students successful in this course are well-suited for Level 2 internal courses.

This cross-curricular course it provides the foundation for exploring concepts across Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Earth Science. Students will develop an understanding of how elements and compounds contribute to the production and processes of the natural and physical world. This course is recommended for students who wish to continue into Level 2 sciences, as it supports pathways in all science disciplines. Please note that only three of the assessments listed below will be taught. The final selection will be confirmed during Term 1, allowing us the flexibility to gather student feedback and ensure the Year 11 course aligns with their learning pathways.

This course is designed to give students a wide range of food hygiene, service, barista and culinary skills that will prepare them for Level 2 and 3 or a future in either the hospitality industry or further training. There will be approx 50 credits available for the whole course over the three lines of class time. If you are wanting to go into the commerce, tourism, retail, or hospitality industry this course will give you real life skills. This course involves 3 lines of classwork and hands-on practical sessions, which will involve work placement in a local business. Mrs Sayer will lead the new course with extensive knowledge in business, hospitality and teaching. This is a combined Yr 11 and 12 class. An application process will apply if oversubscribed. If you are a Year 11 student there will be a mix of Level 1 and level 2 standards similar to the programme below.

Ever wanted to be immersed in the world of crime, society and justice? This course might just be for you! You will learn key social studies skills of social inquiry, understanding and interpreting perspectives, and examining the impacts of social issues alongside ideas of criminology, forensic psychology and law. 

Consider yourself a modern day detective as you examine a range of crimes such as 9/11, genocides, youth crime, ram raids, true crime and more!

Would you like the opportunity to demonstrate sporting movements and examine factors that influence your ability to perform to your best? You will participate in two sporting competitions, where you will be assessed on your ability to produce quality skills and movement. You will learn strategies to improve your sporting movement skills, engage collaboratively in movement and understand strategies, in the context of kotahitanga.

This course combines aspects of Te Reo and Kapa Haka and builds towards a Year 11 Performing Arts production, celebrating identity. We are a culture that expresses ourselves through our movements of our tinana, our wairua and mauri. Students will have the opportunity to demonstrate knowledge and skills through aspects of haka. 

Also explore the world of Taonga Puoro. Learn karakia, origins of taonga puoro and knowledge. 

The sustenance of a rangatira are words. Students will demonstrate skills in the art of Kōrero-ā-waha. Through whaikōrero, waiata, haka, pepeha and other forms of speaking. Be able to stand confidently and exhibit their own Mana Tangata.

In Year 11 Te Reo Māori, students can earn up to 20 NCEA Level 1 credits by completing four key assessments: Two done in class (internals) and two exams at the end of the year (externals). In Term 1, students will have a speaking task where they film a short conversation in te reo Māori about food and cooking. In Term 2, they’ll complete another assessment where they write or speak about how modern media affects the use of te reo Māori. At the end of the year, they will sit two exams. One checks their understanding of how the language works in familiar settings like home or marae, and the other asks them to write in te reo Māori about topics they know well, like their whānau, school, or interests. These assessments help build skills in speaking, writing, and understanding te reo Māori, and support students on their NCEA journey.

Students will explore principles of the design industry and new emerging technologies, use CAD software to build and create a product for market, and in some cases possible testing through VR. You will learn how to set up and use laser cutting, waterjet cutting and 3D printing. Products students can choose from will include: jewellery, digital products, sculptural metal designs, forged and cast metal designs, furniture.

Explore the global tapestry of human experience in our English course, “Voices of Struggle: Stories from Around the World.” This course delves into literature, essays, and narratives that illuminate the diverse challenges faced by individuals across different cultures and societies. Through critical readings and thought-provoking discussions, you'll engage with themes of adversity, resilience, and hope, gaining a deeper understanding of the shared human condition. Join us as we unravel powerful stories of struggle and triumph, enhancing your empathy and expanding your perspective on global issues.

People, Spaces and Places Through a Brush    

Got a passion for drawing, painting, and expressing yourself through art? This course lets you explore people, places, and spaces in your own style, while building the skills needed for a future in the creative industries. You’ll work on a personalised body of work using a mix of media – from traditional paint to modern techniques, and be encouraged to push your creative ideas further.

This course is perfect for those wanting to head into careers in design, animation, fashion, architecture, illustration, or any path where creativity matters.

Page to Stage 

This course is for anyone who loves storytelling, creativity, and working with others. You will explore traditional overseas and modern Aotearoa New Zealand scripts and create original scenes, experiment with different theatre styles, and sharpen your acting and communication skills.

You will explore how to bring characters and stories to life while building confidence, teamwork, and performance skills that go far beyond the stage.

Drama isn’t just for future actors – it sets you up for careers in: teaching, law, medicine, public relations, marketing, media, HR, event management, and more! Join Level 2 Drama and develop skills that will help open doors, wherever life takes you!

Click on the below two links to find out why YOU should be doing Drama! 

Why Study Drama? Student Voice

Why Study Drama?

Media Production          

Students will gain foundational knowledge of Media theory and narrative storytelling techniques before embarking on a short-film production project. They will utilise industry-standard methodologies and processes, including pre-production planning, script development, storyboarding, culminating in the filming and editing of a refined final film.

Students can go solo for this project or in a group of up to four students.

Students will continue to develop their songwriting skills as well as solo and group performance skills. Students will also contribute to the organising and running of one of our successful school-wide events. This course continues from the Level 1 performance music course with the focus on developing students’ skills in recording, songwriting and music performance.

Clink the below link to see why you should do Music:

Why Study Music?

People, Spaces and Places Through the Lens

Love taking photos? Got an eye for detail or a story to tell? This hands-on photography course is all about capturing the world around you - people, places, and moments that matter, while developing your creative style behind the lens.

You’ll get the freedom to choose your own themes and direction as you build a portfolio of work that reflects your ideas, identity, and technical skills. You’ll explore lighting, composition, editing, and storytelling through photography, while learning how to plan, shoot, and present a cohesive body of work.

This course is perfect for students considering careers in photography, visual arts, media, design, fashion, advertising, or digital content creation. It’s also a great creative outlet where your voice and vision lead the way.

This course covers a range of Calculus based standards (Internals and Externals) and is a good basis for the Level 3 Calculus course. Students will need access to a graphics calculator, laptop/Chromebook and student workbook. Students must complete both externally assessed standards to be eligible for the Level 3 Calculus course the following year.

This is mostly an internally assessed Mathematics and Statistics course to prepare students for Level 3 General Mathematics and / or Statistics courses. This course covers a wide range of Level 2 Mathematics topics including Statistics (report writing) and Algebra (calculation) standards. Students will need access to a graphics calculator and laptop/chromebook. Students have the opportunity to continue with general Mathematics learning and further develop their analytical and problem-solving skills.

This course provides a range of Calculus standards, including both internally and externally assessed standards. The course is essential for any student who wishes to pursue Engineering, Science, Computer Science and Medicine at tertiary level. You would be expected to have successfully completed 12CAL in preparation for this course. This is a university approved subject.

This is aimed at Year 12 students, but a select few Year 11's may be selected.  You must apply first, see below for instructions. 

Students will be interviewed for this course and will be asked to write an application.  Commitment to course completion will need to be agreed to.  Come to room 43 to get an application form.  Letter to be given to Mrs Dyer by the 1st of September.

The aim of this course is to help you learn basic skills which will be required in the Primary Sector.  We aim to teach you a mix of skills which can be used in both the Agriculture and Horticulture sector.  If you complete the required course you will gain a Trades recognised Level 2 Primary Industries ITO Certificate.  

This course will run over three lines of the timetable.  

This is a Unit Standards course and those who choose the course will not be able to choose 12 Agriculture.  

There will be one day of week required for work experience, students can choose their own agriculture or horticulture based placement, or the school will help you find one.  

Attendance to all days at school is imperative to be able to pass and gain your industry recognised Level 2 Primary ITO certificate.

This course includes practical unit standards and e-Learning course work and assessments provided by MITO. This is a MITO (Level 2) Ignition programme that is unit standard based. The practical assessment is completed in the workshop or workplace. Upon completion, students will gain the Start Up® Ignition – Automotive Micro-credential (Level 2, 20 credits). 14 of these credits are transferable to an apprenticeship in the automotive industry on completion of both level 2 & 3 courses. This course is aimed at aspiring automotive technicians (car mechanics), heavy automotive technicians (truck mechanics), motorcycle technicians, collision repair technicians (panel beaters) and automotive refinishers (car painters).

This course allows students to investigate the motion of objects. They apply Newton’s law of universal gravitation to astronomical observations, describe how energy is transmitted by mechanical waves and how waves relate to medical technologies, industry and musical instruments.

The course aims to use practical projects such as a residential fence and non-consent building to complement the Level 2 B-Constructive theory workbooks. There is a focus on safety, tool use and care, calculating materials, and excellent workshop processes throughout the year. Successful completion of NCEA Level 1 BCT is recommended for this course or at the discretion of the Curriculum Leader.

Genetics and Cell Biology provide insights into how organisms can adapt to changing environmental conditions. This course discusses factors which affect the genetic variation of a gene pool and how these allow for plant and animal adaptations in the real world.

Imagine a classroom where your voice matters, where your interests shape our path, and where learning is an adventure we embark on together. At the start of the course, we’ll come together to brainstorm and decide on a theme that excites and inspires us. Whether it’s the world of sports, the mysteries of space, the power of stories, or something entirely unique, our theme will be one that we’re all passionate about.

• Learn to analyse a variety of texts, focusing on themes, characters, and narrative techniques.
• Develop the ability to critically evaluate how texts reflect and shape societal values and individual experiences.
• Understand and interpret visual elements in films and other media, analysing how they contribute to storytelling.
• Engage in class discussions and debates to share insights and deepen understanding of texts.

Design and Visual Communication involves expressing visual literacy through the development of design ideas using traditional drawing techniques and computer applications to resolve a final design derived from a given brief.

Destination Aotearoa introduces students to the world of the tourism industry and New Zealand as a world tourism destination. Students will learn valuable skills such as understanding tourism as a national business, how people work in different roles within the tourism industry and discovering the needs of tourists in various contexts.

By taking Level 2 & 3 Tourism students are able to achieve the New Zealand Certificate in Tourism (52 credits). This is a course which will set students up for success in Level 3 Tourism and for future roles within the tourism and services industry.

Year 12 Engineering has been designed as a skills-based programme for students with an interest in Engineering and who may consider employment in one of the Engineering trades.

Students will begin with a journey through time and the Ancient world, from the cradle of civilization, to the Ancient Egyptians to Ancient Rome.

This course focuses on ideas found in the disciplines of Ancient History, Archaeology, Art History, Anthropology and Classical Studies in the wider context of the Trojan War through the literary epic; the Iliad,  the excavations of the buried city of Pompeii and studying the art and architecture of the ancient world. 

You will acquire valuable research, artefact interpretation and critical thinking skills along the way!

Fashionistas, students can take their design skills to the next level, creating textile products in their chosen context - garment or product design.  Students will choose their own projects throughout the year.

Discover the ultimate PE course packed with exhilarating activities!  Develop your fitness through a comprehensive training program tailored to your needs.  Unleash your inner athlete with Ki-O-Rahi skill and performance in a fast-paced and dynamic ball game.  Explore the mechanics of movement through biomechanics and skill learning, enhancing your technique. Elevate your leadership skills as you learn to coach and inspire a winning team. Unleash your potential in this action-packed course!

This course is designed to offer students a wide range of practical woodworking skills. Students work on a range of projects using machinery and hand tools common with furniture making practices.

Do you imagine yourself running or owning a business in the future? If you do, then taking Accounting at school is an obvious choice. This course will teach you how to understand the financial mysteries of business and give you a head start for your future. Be skilled in using accounting programs like XERO and understanding how businesses take care of their vital assets to remain viable. Level 2 Accounting gives you an insight into managing your business finances and interpreting results. 

Students will develop an understanding of business theory and practices in a large organisation and learn about how these organisations interact with the market. This course will cover companies in a wide range of sectors including Agribusiness. Current news related to companies, the economy and global issues will be discussed on a frequent basis and related to the class assignments. A hands-on, team based marketing research project will be completed based on an existing product or service. This course prepares students for further study and careers in business, marketing and entrepreneurship,

The history of terrorism will open your eyes to the world, the people within it and demonstrate why it is important to understand our past to best understand our present and future. Looking at how the extreme acts terrorism has shaped out current. 

Students will gain the skills and knowledge they require to competently and confidently identify, interpret and work with both primary and secondary source material. Whether that is analysing the acts of terror that have famously shaken our world, the reasons for these attacks and how it has dramatically impacted our world. 

Hospitality, Retail, Commerce, Tourism Trades Academy

This course is designed to give students a wide range of food hygiene, service, barista and culinary skills that will prepare them for Level 2 and 3 or a future in either the hospitality industry or further training There will be approx 50 credits available for the whole course over the three lines of class time. If you are wanting to go into the commerce, tourism, retail hospitality industry this course will give you real life skills. This course involves 3 lines of classwork and hands-on practical sessions, which will involve work placement in a working business. Mrs Sayer will lead the new course with extensive knowledge in business, hospitality and teaching. This is a combined Yr 11 and 12 class, application process will apply if oversubscribed. If you are a year 11 student there will be a mix of Level 1 and level 2 standards similar to the program below.

Discover law and justice in New Zealand by diving into democracy, explore legal concepts, and master the law-making process. Join us for an engaging course where you'll gain insights into New Zealand's legal system, learn about key legal concepts, and understand how laws are made. Get ready for an informative and enjoyable exploration of law and justice in the Kiwi and world context! 

This is a performance-based course that also includes Whakairo(carving). Taonga Puoro and Mau Rākau based learning.

Students must also have a positive attitude to learning from a Kaupapa Māori perspective. There will be a strong emphasis on learning tikanga and promoting our culture within our class and kura. 

Students who wish to be part of this course will be required to participate in Kapa Haka and other cultural events.

Students are also required to exhibit and uphold our values of Rangatiratanga, Manaakitanga, and Kaitiakitanga. This must be demonstrated within our class, school, and community. 

In this course, students will learn a wide range of Mathematics concepts to prepare them for careers in the trades such as Engineering and Building.

This course critically examines the cultural, psychological, and political functions of music across time and place. Through the study of diverse musical genres, traditions, and movements, students will explore how music constructs personal and collective identities, gives voice to marginalised groups, and acts as a catalyst for social change. Key themes include protest music, music and memory, identity formation, and the intersection of sound and power. Students will engage with multimodal texts, conduct close analyses of lyrics and performance, and reflect on the significance of music in both historical and contemporary contexts. No prior musical experience is required—only a willingness to listen, think, and respond.

Students will: 

• Investigate how music influences personal and collective identities, and how it serves as a powerful tool for social change
• Find, evaluate, and use information to draw well-supported conclusions about music’s role in societal change.
• Delve into music’s influence on cultural practices, emotional experiences, and societal movements.
• Carefully examine and interpret musical texts and related materials, supporting ideas and conclusions with clear evidence.

This course is designed to give students a wide range of food hygiene, service and culinary skills that will prepare them for Level 3 and a future in either the hospitality industry or further training.

Explore resilience and change management techniques, fostering personal growth. Delve into social justice, dismantling gender roles and stereotypes for a fairer world. Unravel the impact of music videos on society and self-image. Learn to take action, making a positive difference  Discover the importance of wellbeing and address pressing adolescent health concerns.

Keen for adventures on land and sea? As part of the Year 12 Outdoor Education course, you will cruise the local waters in kayaks, learn how to read maps and weather patterns while tramping some of the most beautiful walks in the area, prepare yourself and others for camping in the Pinnacles Hut, and build your skills as a bush survivor.

Do you want to gain practical skills which are recognised and are useful within the agriculture industry? This includes the opportunity to gain an industry recognised certification. You will be participating in a mix of practical and theory learning, both in the classroom and on Hayward Farm.

This is a unit standards course and has essential learning for those wanting to take the Trades Academy course in the following year.  It is a benefit for students to live on a farm, but is not essential.  

STUDENTS CANNOT TAKE 12TDPRI  or 12 HRT IF THEY TAKE THIS COURSE

Students must have an interest in animals, machinery and not mind getting their hands and sometimes themselves dirty. 

It is important that students show respect and maturity when on the farm and follow instructions this is for health and safety reasons as there are times when activities have an element of danger, particularly when students misuse tools or big machinery.  If this guidelines are not followed then the student will be asked to leave the class.  

Ever wondered why people think, feel, and behave the way they do? In Level 2 Psychology, you’ll explore the fascinating science of the human mind. You’ll examine different psychological approaches to explain behavior, investigate real-world debates in psychology, and learn how to carry out your own research.

This course is designed to give students a wide range of food hygiene, service, barista and culinary skills that will prepare them for Level 3 and a future in either the hospitality industry or further training. There will be approx 50 credits available for the whole course over the three lines of class time. If you are wanting to go into the commerce, tourism, retail hospitality industry this course will give you real life skills. This course involves 3 lines of classwork and hands-on practical sessions, which will involve work placement in a working business. Mrs Sayer will lead the new course with extensive knowledge in business, hospitality and teaching. This is a combined Yr 11 and 12 class, application process will apply if oversubscribed. If you are a year 11 student there will be a mix of Level 1 and level 2 standards similar to the programme below. Open to Year 11-13 (Level 3 standards will be added if Year 13’s choose it).

Ignite your passion for sport in this exhilarating PE course!  Explore the power of social responsibility as you unleash your Ki-O-Rahi sport performance potential, and plan and execute the electrifying sports event; Carry the Baton. Discover how staying active can transform your life in Aotearoa, as you explore the impact of physical activity on Kiwi teen’s health, happiness and future!  Join us and become a champion not only on the field but also in creating a positive impact on society.

This course develops a knowledge of chemistry and its relationship to technologies and society. Students develop the broad-based skills required to identify and analyse problems; to explore and test solutions; and to seek, interpret and evaluate information, through collaboration with peers. By doing so, students become aware of the role chemistry plays in responding to social and cultural change and in meeting needs for a sustainable environment, economy and society.

In this unique and hands-on cross-curricular course, you will learn practical skills in sustainable food production, including growing, caring for and harvesting a variety of vegetable and fruit crops, along with sustainable design, living and leadership skills.

Lessons will primarily take place on the school farm, focusing on the sustainable development, maintenance and management of the horticultural area, which includes an extensive fruit orchard and a new market garden site. As well as taking part in growing and harvesting an abundance of fresh produce for our community on the school farm, you will also have your very own garden bed in the school's horticulture area, where you will choose what to grow, experiment with cropping techniques and take home what you grow.

In the classroom, we will explore current issues in sustainable food production, as well as innovative solutions that address environmental, social, cultural, and economic dimensions to promote a sustainable future at local, national, and global scales. 

You will learn how to design and implement real-world sustainability initiatives to improve sustainability in your personal life and in your community, as well as gain the knowledge and skills to integrate sustainability into any career pathway, including agriculture, horticulture, environmental science, landscaping, sustainability, business, health, or hospitality. 

Geography offers a unique lens through which we can understand the spatial organisation and dynamics of human societies. Throughout this course, we will delve into a wide range of captivating topics, from urbanisation and globalisation to migration patterns, cultural landscapes, and the impacts of technology.

Students will learn skills of geographic research, conducting geographic fieldwork, understanding geographic perspectives and acquiring geographic writing skills that will set them apart from the crowd!

By examining these themes, you will gain insights into the interconnectedness of people and places, and how these connections shape our social identities, behaviours and experiences. This could involve contexts such as happiness, patterns of hip hop, urban crime, and local geographic issues that impact both people and place.

This course is aimed at continuing students’ development of their productive language skills like kōrero (spoken), tuhituhi (written), and whakaatu (demonstrative). This course is set as the bridge between Level 1 and Level 3 Te Reo Māori where students will focus beyond the correctness of the language they are learning and work on using their language to hear it. Students who wish to take this course will be required to undertake the reading comprehension external as a compulsory element of the course.

Students are also required to exhibit and uphold our school values of Rangatiratanga, Manaakitanga, and Kaitiakitanga. This needs to be demonstrated within our class, wider school, and out in the community. 

Students will learn how to plan, create and code a fully functioning website. This process will include planning, researching and design. The second part of the course will focus on taking these principles and applying them towards a coding and programming outcome.

Oxytocin, serotonin, dopamine. Can love be explained by a series of chemical reactions in our brains, or is it something more?  In this course students will explore the inner workings of love: love languages, attachment styles and different types of love. We will look into one of the most powerful forces in our universe that drives humans to do the unthinkable, good or bad! We will look at iconic relationships and love in literature and film, as well as more contemporary examples. 

Why do people fall in love? And why are some forms of love long-lasting while others are so fleeting? Love is a basic human emotion, but understanding how and why it happens is not necessarily easy. This course is for students who are interested in understanding how love really influences our choices and want to learn to analyse complex characters and texts through this lens.

Students will:

• Gain a better understanding of the most basic and mysterious human emotion: love. 
• Use texts to explore relationship traits and their implications.
• Reflect on effective ways to understand yourself and others.

Imagine a classroom where the boundaries between language and psychology blur, where your curiosity drives our discussions, and where you become an investigator of the truth behind words. 

• Understand the psychological principles behind persuasive language and its use in advertising, politics, and media.
• Examine historical and contemporary examples of propaganda, focusing on how language is used to influence public opinion and behaviour.
• Learn to identify and critically evaluate misinformation and fake news, understanding the language tactics that make them convincing.
• Participate in debates and discussions to deepen your understanding of how language shapes our perceptions and beliefs.
• Apply your knowledge by creating research projects that explore the language used in specific contexts, such as social media, journalism, or political speeches.

Core skills are the building blocks for successful learning and life beyond school. This course delves into the world of work and study after school, aiming to answer the questions: Where do I want to be? How do I get there? How can I best prepare?

Topics covered throughout the course include career exploration, how to search for work or study options, interview techniques, CV preparation, flatting ‘101’, time management, and exploring a range of helpful learning strategies - what works for you?

Finding Your Own Pathway

This course is for students who are leaning towards a career in the creative industries and would like more time developing skills in Visual Arts. This course will be student-led with students able to choose from a variety of media and themes to develop a body of work. 

TheatreMakers

Level 3 Drama is designed for students passionate about storytelling, acting, and theatre-making. This course offers the chance to extend your performance skills, explore a variety of international and Aotearoa New Zealand scripts, and take creative risks through both scripted and original work.

You will refine your use of drama techniques, further develop directing and devising skills, and work collaboratively to bring your performances to life. Through rehearsal and performance, you will grow as a communicator and gain confidence in presenting ideas clearly and persuasively, on stage and beyond! Level 3 Drama supports a wide range of future pathways in the arts, teaching, law, PR, marketing, media, HR, event management, and many more career pathways. 

Join Us: Whether you're aiming for a career in the arts or simply want to build your confidence and creativity, NCEA Level 3 Drama is your stage. Embrace the challenge, express yourself, and leave your mark on the world of theatre.

Click on the two links below to see why you should choose Drama:

Why Study Drama?

Why Study Drama? Student Voice

This course is a combination of Statistics and basic Calculus.  The course has one external assessment with the remainder being internally assessed. This course gives students the opportunity to continue to develop their analytical and report writing skills. These skills are essential for tertiary study. The General Mathematics course is a University approved subject. Access to a laptop is essential.

This course provides a range of Calculus standards, including both internally and externally assessed standards. The course is essential for any student who wishes to pursue Engineering, Science, Computer Science and Medicine at tertiary level. You would be expected to have successfully completed 12CAL in preparation for this course. This is a university approved subject.

Students will undertake a film study using narrative, technical, psychological or sociological approaches, as well as exploring recent Media industry developments, before embarking on a Media production project. This will be either a narrative or documentary short film. Students can pursue this project on their own in a group of up to three students. Guest speakers from a range of media industries will provide students with valuable insights and tips for entering those fields. Guests in 2024 included a radio broadcaster, a print journalist, a documentary director, and a feature film producer.

Listen to what 2024 students had to say about the course:

Students participate in an industry based music project where they compose, record, produce and market their own album of original music. Students will have the ability to choose from a large range of standards to meet their needs. The course focuses on music industry related skills with a primary focus on songwriting and composition. Alongside this, students also focus on further development of their performance skills as a soloist and a member of a group.

Click the link below to see why you should do Music:

Why Study Music?

Finding your own pathway           

This course is designed for students who are serious about photography and see their future in the creative industries whether that’s visual arts, media, fashion, design, or film. You'll get time, space, and guidance to build your own visual style, develop technical skills, and create a body of work that reflects who you are as an artist.

You’ll be working towards a final photography portfolio that explores personal ideas through visual storytelling. This includes experimenting with different techniques, taking creative risks, and refining your own voice as a photographer.

Discover the dynamic world of Ultimate Frisbee, honing your skills and tactics through thrilling gameplay. Unleash your potential as we delve into skill analysis, unlocking the secrets of success in coaching. Envision a future filled with physical activities as we guide you in devising innovative strategies to conquer new challenges. Get ready to enhance your performance and experience a wide range of sports. 

This course includes practical unit standards and e-Learning course work and assessments provided by MITO. As this is a MITO (Level 3) Accelerate programme that is unit standard based, the practical assessment is completed in the workshop or workplace. Upon completion, the student will gain the StartUp® Accelerate – Automotive Micro-credential (Level 3, 21 credits). 14 of those credits are transferable to an apprenticeship in the automotive industry on completion.

This course provides understanding of plant and animal responses, including homeostasis and evolution, which is crucial for comprehending the intricate web of life on Earth. This knowledge allows us to preserve biodiversity, adapt to changing environments, and develop sustainable solutions to address the challenges posed by a rapidly evolving world. A definite must if you are planning on pursuing Biology courses in university. 

The course includes two field trips.

Level 3 BCT gives students a pre-trade like course with six Level 3 apprenticeship theory units available. The course building projects will give students the experience of residential house construction from the ground up and the skills and processes needed to become a carpenter. There will also be the opportunity for involvement with sub-trades such as plumbers, electricians and roofers. Trade associated field trips will give insight into the production of materials being used on site. Safety will be a major focus and there will be on-site courses to reinforce this area of learning.

Successful completion of NCEA Level 1 and Level 2 BCT is recommended for this course or at the discretion of the Curriculum Leader.

This course is designed to give students a wide range of knowledge and skills related to the safe preparation and service of food and beverages. Students will be prepared for the industry or further Hospitality studies at a tertiary institution. This is a theory and practical based programme.

In this course, we will explore the intricate dynamics of societies, the social processes that influence them and the policies that shape them. We will delve into the importance of taking action to address societal issues, related to policy and politics.

By studying historical and contemporary examples, such as the Dawn Raids apology, climate change activism and approaches to managing crime, we will learn how individuals and communities can initiate positive change through activism, advocacy, and grassroots movements. 

Join us as we equip ourselves with the knowledge and tools to become informed citizens ready to contribute to a more just and equitable world!

The study of chemistry is the branch of science that deals with the composition, structure, properties, and changes of matter. It explores how different substances interact with each other and how these interactions can be utilized to create new materials or understand natural phenomena. Chemistry is a fundamental science that underpins our understanding of the world around us and plays a crucial role in various aspects of daily life. 

Tourism is an exciting subject that will allow students the potential to become employed in the Tourism and Hospitality industry. Ideas and knowledge of Australia and the Pacific Islands as tourist destinations will be explored. Students will develop customer service skills, examine specific work roles within the industry and understand the economic impacts of tourism.

By taking Level 2 & 3 Tourism students are able to achieve the New Zealand Certificate in Tourism (52 credits)

Students will work through a major and a minor portfolio. They will need to find a suitable stakeholder and work through a design brief, negotiating with the stakeholder to plan and present design solutions and ideas to resolve a final design.

In this semester course, students will pursue, investigate, research, explore, plan, and propose a digital technology solution for an issue of their choosing. From here, students will conceptualise, model, test, develop, and create this digital outcome however they see fit, all in a bid to find a digital solution to their initially explored issue.

From grand mansions to grimy basements, from laughter to heartbreak- this course explores how storytellers use tragedy and satire to critique social systems and expose the absurdities and injustices of wealth and power. Students will examine a range of texts across time and medium to explore how inequality is dramatised, mocked, and challenged. Expect dark humour, devastating reversals, and characters who rise and fall at the mercy of class.

Students will: 

• Analyse the use of tragedy and satire as tools for social critique
• Explore how themes of class, wealth, and injustice are developed across a range of texts
• Write a critical analysis of how visual and written language features shape meaning and audience response
• Present a persuasive argument about the consequences of injustice and inequality in storytelling.

Students will be focusing on the influential leaders of the Greek and Roman age, who were in power, how they maintained that power, and the impact of this on the classical world. From Socrates to Plato, Julius Caesar to Augustus; Antony and Cleopatra; Servila to Livia and everyone in between.

We will also be looking at the significance of philosophy and the roles of individuals of influence across a number of times and places. 

13 Agriculture is an extension of learning from Year 12.  

Students gain more complicated skills with regards to Agriculture. Students will be taught cattle handling skills and animal care and health recognition.  

Fencing skills will be built on from Year 12.  Students learn about permanent electric fence components and how to hang a pre built gate.

Students learn how to chainsaw tree logs and gain understanding of how to handle a chainsaw safely.  Chain sharpening is taught. 

Weed identification and control is part of learning. 

Students gain learning on farm and in the classroom.  

This semester course has been designed for those students who wish to develop a wide range of commercial practical skills and design basics and who may wish to consider employment in one of the construction industries.

Hospitality, Retail, Commerce, Tourism Trades Academy

This course is designed to give students a wide range of food hygiene, service, barista and culinary skills that will prepare them for Level 2 and 3 or a future in either the hospitality industry or further training There will be approx 50 credits available for the whole course over the three lines of class time. If you are wanting to go into the commerce, tourism, retail hospitality industry this course will give you real life skills. This course involves 3 lines of classwork and hands-on practical sessions, which will involve work placement in a working business. Mrs Sayer will lead the new course with extensive knowledge in business, hospitality and teaching. This is a combined Yr 11 and 12 class, application process will apply if oversubscribed. If you are a year 11 student there will be a mix of Level 1 and level 2 standards similar to the program below.

Entrepreneurs of the Future will need to fill their tool boxes with skills vital to the financial success of their business. Level 3 Accounting gives you an insight into managing your business finances and interpreting results. This is a university-approved course leading to careers in Business, Management and Accountancy. 

This is a performance-based course. They also need to have a positive attitude to learning from a Kaupapa Māori perspective. There will be a strong emphasis on learning tikanga and promoting our culture within our class and kura. Students who wish to be part of this course will be required to participate in Kapa Haka and other cultural events.

Students are also required to exhibit and uphold our values of Rangatiratanga Manaakitanga and Kaitiakitanga. This needs to be demonstrated within our class, school, and community.

Material world is a Textile Technology as a subject is approved for University Entry. This course allows students to further their creative design ambitions by using a design process to create innovative designs and quality products.

This course covers Mechanics, Electricity and Waves. Physics is the science that seeks to understand the fundamental principles that govern the universe. By studying physics, students gain insights into the laws of motion, energy, gravity, electromagnetism, and more. This knowledge forms the basis for understanding the physical world and natural phenomena.

Embark on a captivating Health course that delves deep into New Zealand's pressing health issues. Analyse the Determinants of Health, uncovering their influential role. Explore diverse medical treatment approaches, broadening your perspective on healthcare. Navigate the ethical complexities within New Zealand, embracing multiple viewpoints.  

In Level 3 Psychology, you’ll take a deeper dive into the science of human thought, emotion, and behavior. You’ll analyse different psychological approaches, debate complex issues, and explore ethical challenges in real-world psychological practice.

Core skills are the building blocks for successful learning and life beyond school. This course delves into the world of work and study after school, aiming to answer the questions: How do I fit into society?  How can I best prepare?

Topics offered throughout the course include developing interpersonal communication skills along with career planning and learning strategies that work! There is an expectation that students will monitor their own progress across subject areas and prioritise workload accordingly. This may result in selecting from standard options depending on student needs and interests.

Students enrolled in a study class will be supervised by a teacher in a designated classroom. The expectation is that students will continue with coursework and revision from their other courses. Students will need to bring their own laptop or be prepared with textbooks or other printed materials.

The Year 13 Outdoor Education course is based around leadership, physical fitness in challenging tramping journeys, river/water safety and bush survival. There is also a multi-night camping experience and a survival overnight camp to push participants past their comfort zones. 

The course is a mixture of three Achievement Standards and three Unit Standards, with the option to complete 14 Achievement Standard credits to meet the requirements of University Entrance. PLEASE NOTE - Achievement Standard AS91498 (Evaluate Physical Activity Experiences) is not a compulsory unit of work, but is available for students who wish to complete a University Entrance 'basket' of 14 credits in an approved subject. This unit is a compulsory part of the Year 13 PEA course. 

You MUST be:

PHYSICALLY FIT! Or at least be prepared to work hard to become fit enough to complete challenging day tramps, and a multi-night camping journey.

MENTALLY TOUGH! There are times where you may be out of your comfort zone, sleeping in a shelter you built yourself from natural materials, in a cold river crossing near the winter months, and on a multi-night camp with your supplies on your back. A great way to build resilience.

DRIVEN! To become the best version of yourself by participating in leadership, high-risk activities, completing Level 3 analysis of safety management systems, becoming physically fit and so on. 

This course is aimed at students mastering their productive language skills like kōrero (spoken), tuhituhi (written), and whakaatu (demonstrative). The students will look to use their knowledge of grammar, sentence structure, and vocabulary, as well as their ability to speak the language, to now focus on how they can make the language that they use be guided by a Māori way of thinking. Students who wish to take this course will be required to undertake the reading comprehension external as a compulsory element of the course.

Students are also required to exhibit and uphold our school values of Rangatiratanga, Manaakitanga, and Kaitiakitanga. This needs to be demonstrated within our class, wider school, and out in the community. 

Step into the role of a Historian as you continue your journey through history. We will embark on an engaging exploration of the major events and transformative periods that have shaped the world we live in today. From political revolutions to scientific breakthroughs, this course offers a concise overview of key historical developments from the early 21st century to the present day. 

You will be able to build on the research skills gained in Level 2 History and expand your critical thinking by analysing different historical events and engaging with historiography through the lens of a historian. 

You will learn the ‘tricks of the historians’ trade’ to contextualise the past and the analyse implications for the future.  By the end of this course you will have your own ‘Historians Guide to the Past”.

Students of Legal Studies explore Law as an integral aspect of society, investigate how laws are applied in everyday life, and consider how laws relate to, and are affected by, the changing needs and values of society. 

In doing so, students gain an informed respect for the law that enables them to operate as confident and responsible citizens in a diverse society and sharpen their capacity to evaluate the concepts, principles, systems, and processes of the New Zealand legal system; the history of law in New Zealand; and the significance of the Treaty of Waitangi.

Do you ever wonder why some stories stick with you long after you've finished them? Or why others leave you feeling like something isn't quite right? What if the stories you’ve been told, in books, movies, or even the news... aren't as straightforward as they seem?

In this English course, we're going to pull back the curtain on the real power of storytelling. Forget about memorising plot points. Instead, you'll learn to become a truth detective. We'll dive into the minds of unreliable narrators, expose the blurred lines between fact and fiction, and investigate how lies can be used to protect, manipulate, or even destroy.

This isn't just about books and movies. We'll connect these powerful ideas to the real world, exploring how truth and lies shape everything from social media feeds to political discourse. You'll sharpen your critical thinking skills, learning to question what you see and hear, and to evaluate sources with precision. You'll discover who controls the story and, most importantly, how you can take control of your own.

If you’re ready to stop just consuming stories and start understanding how they work, this course is for you. Join us and learn to see the world, and every story in it, with a new, critical eye.

This is a UE recognised course and a full basket, it has report writing and practical learning.  Commercial horticulture and agriculture are the focus. Trips will be included in this course.  You may want to grow a crop of sunflowers.  You will have to ask your teacher about that next year. 

The course topics are decided on by the students depending what they are interested in.  In 2025 students studied animal nutrition, grew a crop of sunflowers, visited a sheep milking farm and then looked at profitability and studied mussel farming.  What will you be interested in studying in 2026?  Currently we have the reproduction assessment, but you may instead want a garden.  Unit Standards can be added to this Level 3 course.  

The New Zealand economy relies heavily on the primary sector.  The sector is crying out for talented young people like you.  Want to come out of university with little to no debt?  There are a huge array of scholarships and many students are head hunted before leaving university for well paid and secure jobs.  The primary sector is also for those not wanting to work on farms but be involved with animals, plants, ecology, zoology and soils.  Exciting and wide ranging career opportunities.  

Students will develop an understanding of business theory and practices in a large organisation operating in the global marketplace. In addition to a theoretical approach to learning there will be a wide range of “hand-on” activities which include participating in the Young Enterprise Scheme and the review of case studies. Current news related to companies, the economy, globalisation and other issues will be discussed on a frequent basis. This is a university approved course leading to careers in business, marketing, management and entrepreneurship.