Rotorua Lakes High School

*NCEA Level 1 Literacy English*

This course is designed for those students who are less confident with English and need to improve their reading and writing skills in order to prepare for the Reading and Writing  NCEA literacy tests. Students will complete Two Level One English internal standards and some core generic unit standards.

This course is for students who are mathematically confident.

There will be a maximum of 20 credits available through achievement standards.

Level 1 AOE provides an introduction to Outdoor Education and helps students build a strong foundation of skills and knowledge for safe and enjoyable experiences in the outdoors 

This subject involves elements of navigation, tramping/camping, survival skills, environmental care, mountain biking, rock-climbing, water activities, local history and learning about our unique ecosystems. Through this course, students will develop an understanding of mātauranga Māori concepts and apply these throughout their learning to enhance their relationship with the environment. 

This course will benefit students who enjoy hands-on learning, spending time outdoors, and may be interested in future pathways in the outdoors.

Please note, as this is a unit standard course, it does not leave academic pathways such as Sports Science open in future years without special consideration from the HOD and it does NOT contribute towards University Entrance. 

This course is limited to 20 spots per year group and offers a minimum of 15 credits.

This full year course is your starting point for a career in building, joinery, furniture making, boat building and related trades. Students will develop practical skills through a series of projects including a bedside cabinet and a coaster set. Students will learn how to select, use and maintain tools and equipment skillfully and safely to produce high quality outcomes.

The focus in this course is on practical and research activities in contexts that are important to the Rotorua Community. This course will involve practical laboratory work and may provide an opportunity to undertake a Science investigation in the field. 

Level 1 Commerce is about how individuals and whanau use their limited resources of income, time and skills to make decisions about what goods and services they buy. Students will also explore how businesses make decisions about what to produce, how to produce and what pricing they will choose. The final theme studied is how the Household Sector, the Business Sector and the Government Sector are all interdependent. 

Students will participate in a wide range of learning activities that provide real world experiences to consolidate and enhance student learning. 

Level 1 Commerce (11COM) students apply their understanding of a range of production concepts to cooking pancakes."I have enjoyed 11COM this year, the classroom has a good vibe and the teacher is always organised. Learning resources and teaching activities meet different learning styles". Year 11 student 2026.

Level 1 Dance offers students the opportunity to explore dance as a powerful form of expression and communication. Through this course, students will:

• Develop Performance Skills: Learn and perform dance sequences, enhancing technique, musicality, and expressive abilities.
• Choreograph Original Works: Create dance pieces in response to various stimuli, fostering creativity and problem-solving skills.
• Understand Dance Elements: Gain knowledge of movement, space, time, and energy to inform both performance and choreography.
• Reflect and Analyze: Evaluate personal and peer performances to deepen understanding and improve future work.

This course emphasises collaboration, cultural appreciation, and the development of confidence through movement.

Co-Curricular Opportunities:

Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities to enrich their dance experience:

• Dance NZ Made: Engage in workshops and competitions that celebrate the diversity and passion of dance across New Zealand. 
• School Productions: Contribute to full-scale performances, applying skills learned in class to live audiences.
• Show Quest
• Talent Quest
• Performance Assemblies
• Epic Night Out
• Community Events: Showcase dance pieces at local festivals and gatherings, fostering community engagement.

Level 1 Dance is ideal for students eager to express themselves physically, work collaboratively, and immerse themselves in the dynamic world of dance.

This is a- proposed  full-year course that will cover topics such as communicating design ideas, Product and Spatial Design. Students will use Microsoft Office and Computer Aided Draughting (Autocad, Revit, Inventor) for digital design and presentation. This subject will lead to pathways in the areas of Engineering, Graphic Design, Architecture, Manufacturing, Technology, Construction and Infrastructure industries.

Computational Thinking for Digital Technologies enables students to express problems and formulate solutions in ways that mean a computer (an information processing agent) can be used to solve them. In this area, students develop:

• To decompose a problem to create a simple algorithm using the three building blocks of programming.
• To debug simple algorithms and programmes and identifying if things have gone wrong.
• Implement the algorithm by creating a programme that uses inputs, outputs, sequences, basic selection using comparative operators, and iteration.

Designing and developing digital outcomes: In this area, students understand that digital applications and systems are created for humans by humans. Students develop the following:

• Investigate and consider possible solutions to a given context or issue.
• Identify and evaluate social, ethical and end-user considerations that are relevant to the outcome.
• Use information gained from testing and apply appropriate tools, techniques, procedures and/or protocols to improve the quality of the outcome and to ensure it meets the purpose and end-user requirements.

In Level 1 Drama, students explore how to express ideas through performance by developing key skills in voice, body, movement, and space. They will learn to interpret scripts, apply drama techniques, and create original work, both individually and in groups. Students will gain confidence in performing, develop creative thinking, and build strong collaboration and communication skills, essential for any future pathway.

Assessment includes both devised and scripted performances, as well as reflection on the creative process.

Students will also have the opportunity to be involved in a range of exciting extra-curricular events such as:

• Sheilah Winn Shakespeare Festival
• ShowQuest
• Epic Night Out
• School Production

Drama at Level 1 is a dynamic and rewarding course that fosters self-expression and leadership through the performing arts.

This is a full year's course which is principally workshop based and covers a wide range of engineering skills including lathe and mill work, spot, mig, oxyacetylene  and arc welding, metal casting and machine work such as turning and milling. 

This course offers  multiple pathways as it incorporates both unit standards and achievement standards.  

Design and drawing skills are part of this course  along with trades calculations

 Students are required to design and make their own small engineering project. 

NCEA Level 1 Achievement Standard English

This course is for students who are confident with English skills. It covers the interpretation of how context shapes the language that we use. A study of written and visual texts and developing a variety of responses to the texts. A study of various types of writing will be explored with several writing opportunities throughout the year.  Developing reading skills and writing responses to unfamiliar reading texts.

This course is for people for whom English is an additional language. Course work includes reading, writing, speaking, listening, grammar and vocabulary in English. Particular emphasis is placed on reading and writing, which are major components of mainstream subjects and future tertiary education. English Language has NCEA Unit Standards, which are endorsed as Achieved or Not Achieved.

This is a proposed course,in which students will develop skills in selection, adaptation, processing, preparation and serving of food with consideration given to nutritional needs, hygiene and selection and use of equipment. Practical lessons will complement theory tasks.

Year 11 healthy nutritional meals

This is an exciting course as it brings together a range of learning areas such as creative design, science, engineering, business studies, digital media, computing, electronics, materials technologies and entrepreneurship in a project-based learning environment.

Course Overview

This course is a project-led journey for students who want to engage in hands-on engineering, design, and innovation. Students work through increasingly complex design challenges involving CAD, digital fabrication, electronics, AI, and sustainable mobility — culminating in the design and construction of a fully electric vehicle to race in the EVolocity National Competition.

Students will design, make, test, evaluate, and compete with outcomes they build using industry tools like Fusion 360, Blender, Arduino, FDM Printer x 2, laser cutting, CNC machining, and custom battery systems.

Who is this course for?

• Students who enjoy designing, building, and problem-solving
• Learners who thrive in practical, project-based environments
• Students interested in engineering, product design, fabrication, electronics, automotive tech, or emerging technologies
• Those seeking pathways into university engineering/design, apprenticeships, or creative technology industries

Geography isn’t just about maps and capital cities, it’s one of the most exciting and useful subjects you can study at school. It mixes science, statistics, and English, making it perfect for building a wide range of skills. You’ll explore volcanoes, geothermal energy in Iceland, Japan and New Zealand, and issues affecting the wider Pacific region. There is a 'rivers' field trip where you collect data using specialist equipment and make judgements on how pollution has changed the health of the river.

Studying geography keeps your university options wide open, whether you're into science, social studies, or the arts. It’s also a stepping stone to amazing careers like geology, environmental science, foreign affairs, regional and urban planning, commerce, conservation, and GIS (Geographic Information Systems)—fields that help shape the world and make a real impact.

Geography helps you understand the world—and gives you the tools to change it.

Geography related careers include:

Environmental Scientist | Resource Management | Geologist | Geothermal Energy |Geospatial Specialist | Civil Engineering | Emergency Management | Urban Planner | Waste Management | Survey Technician

Level 1 Health involves students exploring influences on well-being, the effects of these influences and strategies to enhance or maintain well-being. 

Students will investigate a variety of health issues relevant to teenagers.  Topics covered include: decision making, goal-setting with strategies for achieving well-being, nutrition, managing change, relationships and understanding issues relating to drug use.

Health is an achievement standard based course, that keeps all academic pathways open for future subject selection including working towards University Entrance in future years and supports students ability to endorse with Merit and Excellence at Level 1. 

This course will offer a minimum of 15 credits.

*Students will be required to have a reasonable level of reading and writing for this course.

To understand the present we need to understand the past and how it has impacted on our present. In this way we can avoid repeating our mistakes. History is a literacy rich course which teaches the skills of research, communication, resource interpretation, report writing, problem solving and essay writing.

It explores;

·         the Black Civil Rights movement in the USA

·         Dame Whina Cooper and the 1975 Land March

History related careers include:

Heritage Manager                              Historic buildings inspector

Museum exhibitions office                 Archaeologist

Broadcast Journalist                         Civil Service Administrator

Lawyer                                             Researcher

Diplomat

If you are thinking of following a career path in law or in politics, this is the course for you. Level 1 Legal Studies includes topics such as Parliament and how laws are made, the court system, why we make laws and the impact laws and the legal system have on you as a New Zealand citizen. This course covers the basics and is a good foundation course for NCEA Level 2 Legal Studies.

Here is an overview of some rewarding legal career opportunities: Workplace Relations Advisor, Legal Nurse Consultant, E-Discovery Consultant, Public Order and Safety (Police), the Defence Force, Jury Consultant, Trial Consultant, Legal Executive, Personal Assistant, Office Administration Specialist and Legal Assistant in banks, government departments and other large organisations. 

This course is for students who are less confident with Mathematics. It is designed to focus more on Internal Standards, with less abstract content.

There will be 2 internally assessed Achievement Standards as well as  the 10 Numeracy Co-requisite credits.

To go on to mathematics at Level 2 (year 12) students will need to complete the 2 internal achievement standard.

The course will provide students with the opportunity to explore digital photography and photo manipulation using a variety of software processes. The focus of this new course is local, with students going on a class trip to take photos and learn about local and Maori artworks.   Students will also be exploring basic drawing and painting techniques. The goal of the course is to prepare students for Level 2 Photography, both in theory and practical approaches. Students will learn about the functioning of a digital camera to control aperture and shutter speed to create different effects.

Students also will learn how to build on fine art concepts in the field of Photography. Artist models will be used to answer a brief, focusing on contemporary visual culture both in New Zealand and internationally. Students will be required to draw and paint from observation as a part of this course.

Career pathways include Journalistic Photography, Fashion Photography, Advertising, Television and Film Production, and Fine Arts and Portrait Photography. 

If you took part in 10 Music, Level 1 builds on those skills and takes things up a notch. One of the biggest parts of this course is performing – you'll get to play both as a soloist and in groups with your classmates.

Even better? You can get free lessons in piano, guitar, and bass.

The course is split into 3 main parts:

Performing – Show off your skills on your instrument or voice, both alone and with a group.
Exploring music styles – Learn about different kinds of music and what makes them unique.
Writing your own music – Try your hand at composing your own songs and musical pieces.

Music Co-curricular Activities:

RLHS Musical Production, Smokefree Showquest, Rockquest and Tangata Beats, Play it Strange Songwriting competition, RLHS Talent Quest, Lunchtime concerts, assembly performances, New Zealand Music Commission Mentoring workshops, EPIC Night Out and many more.

Continuation:  NCEA Level 2 Music

This two-year programme of study leads to the New Zealand Certificate in Primary Industry Skills (Level 2).

The programme aims to ensure that at the end of the two years of study students have a combination of practical skills and theoretical knowledge that will enable them to continue to make informed choices about their career options in the primary sector.

The programme provides learners with transferable skills in literacy and numeracy, and instills work-ready skills through practical training opportunities in realistic working environments.

11 Practical PE is a unit standard based course where the general focus areas include the practical application of movement strategies, self management, navigation and orienteering skills, kaitiakitanga and the interpersonal skills needed to support, lead and work with others in a PE setting. This course will be taught in a range of contexts such as Māori and cultural activities, individual and team sports, fitness activities and outdoor education. 

This course is suitable for students who have the work ethic and literacy levels to achieve at Level 1 NCEA and who have demonstrated high engagement and participation in PE at Y10. Approval into this course takes into consideration teacher recommendations as well as HOD approval. 

This course will offer a minimum of 14 credits. 

This course aims to build on the scientific knowledge and skills developed in Year 10 Science and prepare students for the advanced Science courses in Year 12. The course will be assessed with a combination of internal and external standards.

Level 1 Sports Science (SPS) provides an academic learning environment about sport performance. Students will learn a range of skills, principles and concepts which are primarily taught and applied in a practical setting.  Students will participate in a variety of sports codes and challenging outdoor environments which throughout the course will teach aspects of biophysical principles, sociocultural influences and Te Ao Maori influences on movement. 

This course is an achievement standard based course, that keeps all academic pathways open for future subject selection including working towards University Entrance in future years and supports students ability to endorse with Merit and Excellence at Level 1. Sports Science will benefit students who are interested and motivated to learn more about the body, movement and performance and for students who are potentially looking at a future career pathways in the Physical Education industry.  

This course will offer a minimum of 15 credits.

Te Ao Haka is a performance-based subject that provides opportunities for ākonga to engage in Māori culture, language, and traditional practices.  Ākonga learn their whakapapa, history and language through the medium of haka and is combined with traditional and contemporary culture. 

Ākonga can achieve Te Ao Haka Level 1, 2 and 3 credits that contribute towards NCEA and University Entrance (UE).   Scholarships in Te Ao Haka are also offered. 

This Te Reo Māori subject covers 4 Level 1 NCEA achievement standards.  You will be assessed on 2 internal standards during the year and 2 external exams at the end of the year.  Tauira must be capable at Level 6 and above of the NZ Curriculum for Te Reo Māori. 

There is also the opportunity to have some tauira completing Level 1 NCEA unit standards. All unit standards will be kōrero, pānui, tuhituhi and whakarongo and are internally assessed. 

The class is taught in an immersion context with 80-100% te reo Māori instructions and mahi by both kaiako and tauira. 

A proposed introductory course leading to an exciting and interesting industry which ranges from construction working in an apparel business to creative theatre costume design and interior design.

Students will develop an understanding of pattern making, sewing and construction skills, material techniques and will learn ways to document and communicate their own designs.

11ART is a fun and practical subject for students who are hands on learners. You will be learning about painting and drawing, as well as experimenting with all sorts of art mediums.  Absolute beginners are welcome, no art experience is required!

This is a university approved subject,  which means you can progress through the years of NCEA  and gain Achieved, Merit or Excellence endorsements. Your results help you access university and tertiary courses when you leave school. 

This class is ideally suited for those considering work in the Creative Industries, such as Fine Arts, Fashion Design, Graphic Design, tattoo art, Interior Design, and Photography/Film industries. You will learn:

•  Drawing and Painting realistically from observation
• Relief printmaking
• How to use Photoshop, with a little photographic technique also. 
• How to develop original art using artists as inspiration

This course will cover topics aligned to the external NCEA Level 2 Te Reo Māori . The topics may include Te Marae – Tikanga, Kawa, Hui - Pohiri, Tangihanga, Sports and Recreation today, traditional Māori games and Pastimes, Ko ngā tūmanako, Ko ngā Kōrero Pūrākau me ngā Pakiwaitara.

NCEA Level 2 Achievement Standard English

Students who wish to take Level 3 English should be taking this course.  This course will explore a range of challenging written, visual and oral texts. Students will be immersed in English literature through both novels and films. Students focus will be to gain all of their University Entrance Reading and Writing credits through internal assessment. They will also complete 2 External Achievement Standards to enhance their learning. 

To gain entrance into this course students need a minimum of 12 NCEA Level One English achievement standard credits. At least 4 of these credits must be from any one of the external achievement standards. Students should also have a high level of confidence in English.

Level 2 AOE builds on the foundation skills and knowledge of Level 1 and gives students the opportunity to take more ownership of their learning in outdoor settings. Contexts such as restoration projects, mountain biking, rock climbing, tramping, navigation, survival skills, equipment design and water activities offer the chance to refine skills introduced in Level 1, and develop confidence and competence in real world learning experiences.

Students will be involved in planning and risk assessment while continuing to explore their relationship with te taiao (the natural world) and delve deeper into our local ecosystems and biodiversity. Mātauranga Māori concepts like whanaungatanga, and manaakitanga underpin the course and help guide how we interact with people and place.

This course is ideal for students who enjoy learning through experience, want to build confidence and competence in outdoor settings, and are interested in pathways related to outdoor education, adventure recreation or environmental work.

Students opting for Outdoor Ed need to be committed to fully participating in all aspects of the program including the field trips and activities like tramping, mountain biking & climbing. 

Please note, as this is a unit standard course, it does not leave academic pathways such as Sports Science open in future years without special consideration from the HOD and it does NOT contribute towards University Entrance. 

This course is designed to guide you to develop your creative potential.  Come and learn to paint the professional way! Gain skills and confidence through Fine Arts practices, using a variety of painting, drawing and image making processes and materials

You have your own choice of themes to create any type of painting of your choice.  Drawing and painting tuition is provided throughout the course, so beginners are welcome.  

This is a university approved subject,  which means you can progress through the years of NCEA  and gain Achieved, Merit or Excellence endorsements. Your results help you access university and tertiary courses when you leave school.  

Students will study the following topics: Plant behaviour and animal responses, cell biology and gene expression, a contemporary biological issue, evolution, biotechnology and human evolution. 

This is a full year's course designed around furniture making. Students will make a series of set projects including a garden chair. They will learn how to select, use and maintain tools and equipment skillfully and safely to produce high quality products.

The Level 2 Chemistry course introduces students to the wider world of Chemistry.  It explores the basic fundamentals of Chemistry and how chemistry it is used in society to meet needs, resolve issues and develop new technologies.   It is a full academic programme comprising a combination of internal and external Achievement Standards.  The internal component is practical orientated with assessments that reflect this. Level 2 Chemistry provides the basis for study at Level 3 and aims to prepare students considering careers in areas including Health Sciences, Engineering and Science. 

Level 2 Childcare is a unit standard based course that introduces the basic skills and knowledge involved in the education and care of infants, toddlers and young children.  

The aim is to:

• Develop the knowledge and confidence required to responsibly care for a child
• Develop the knowledge base for future confident learning and parenting
• Teach basic skills required for positive parenting  and/ or education of young children
• Develop an understanding of child development 

Level 2 Childcare works through a variety of unit standards supplied through Whanau Awhina/Plunket.  

Level 2 Dance offers students the opportunity to deepen their understanding of dance as an expressive art form. Through this course, students will:

• Refine Performance Techniques: Enhance control, fluency, and expressive qualities in dance sequences.
• Develop Choreographic Skills: Create original solo and group dances that communicate specific intentions.
• Analyze Dance Works: Critically examine dance performances, understanding the use of elements and devices.
• Collaborate Effectively: Work with peers to devise and perform cohesive dance pieces.

Assessments are both practical and theoretical, allowing students to showcase their abilities in performance, choreography, and critical analysis.

Co-Curricular Opportunities:

Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities to enrich their dance experience:

• Dance NZ Made: Engage in workshops and competitions that celebrate the diversity and passion of dance across New Zealand. 
• School Productions: Contribute to full-scale performances, applying skills learned in class to live audiences.
• Community Events: Showcase dance pieces at local festivals and gatherings, fostering community engagement.
• Show Quest
• Talent Quest
• School Assemblies

Level 2 Dance is ideal for students eager to express themselves physically, work collaboratively, and immerse themselves in the dynamic world of dance.

This is a full-year course that will cover topics such as communicating design ideas, Product and Spatial Design. Students will use Microsoft Office and Computer Aided Draughting (Autocad, Revit, Inventor) for digital design and presentation. This subject will lead to pathways in the areas of Engineering, Graphic Design, Architecture, Landscaping, Manufacturing, Technology, Construction and Infrastructure industries.

Computational Thinking for Digital Technologies enables students to express problems and formulate solutions in ways that mean a computer (an information processing agent) can be used to solve them. In this area, students develop:

• Algorithmic thinking skills and understanding of the computer science principles that underpin all digital technologies.
• Students learn core programming concepts and learn to take advantage of the capabilities of computers, so that they can become creators of digital technologies, not just users.
• Understanding of how computer data is stored.

Designing and developing digital outcomes: In this area, students understand that digital applications and systems are created for humans by humans. Students develop the following:

• An increasingly sophisticated understanding and skills for designing and producing quality, fit-for-purpose, digital outcomes.
• Understanding of the technologies people need in order to locate, analyse, evaluate and present digital information efficiently, effectively and ethically.
• Awareness of intellectual property issues that arise within digital systems. Develop knowledge and skills in using different digital technologies to create digital content for the web, and prints.

Level 2 Drama builds on the foundational skills developed in Level 1, offering students the opportunity to delve deeper into characterisation, style, and script interpretation. Students will refine their use of voice, body, movement, and space to create compelling performances and explore a range of theatrical forms and genres.

Through both devised and scripted work, students will learn how to:

• Sustain convincing and truthful characters
• Apply drama techniques to communicate meaning
• Collaborate effectively to devise original theatre
• Reflect critically on their creative process

Assessment tasks involve live performance, written reflection, and performance analysis, helping students become confident, thoughtful artists and communicators.

Students will also have the chance to be involved in extra-curricular opportunities including:

• Sheilah Winn Shakespeare Festival
• ShowQuest
• Epic Night Out
• School Production

Level 2 Drama is ideal for students who enjoy performing, working with others, and challenging themselves creatively. It supports pathways in the performing arts, media, education, and any career requiring communication and leadership.

Level 2 Economics aims to provide a topical study of the New Zealand economy by studying contemporary regional and national economic events and how they impact different groups in the economy, such as households and businesses. The course examines the specific macroeconomic issues of economic growth, unemployment and inflation and explores the Government's current economic policies. Students will use a range of economic models, statistics and concepts to analyse both the causes and effects of these economic issues. 

The course involves a four day field trip to Wellington to visit the Reserve Bank, the Treasury, other Government ministries, Victoria University and Non-government agencies 

AStudents will complete two internal assessments (Unemployment and Government policies) worth 10 credits then complete two external topics (Growth and Inflation) worth 8 credits.

This course offers two pathways. There are learning opportunities which can be assed with achievement standards as well as unit standards.  This course is  designed to provide opportunities for those intending to go onto tertary and trades. its possible to get endorsement at level 2 and eventually  level 3

This is a full year's course covering Engineering Drawing, machining  and fabrication.  This course is for students considering careers such as tool making, fitting, fabrication and general engineering.

The course promotes the understanding and interpretation of mechanical engineering drawings as well as developing more advanced skills. There is a focus on precision and working within close tolerances to ensure the precise fit of mating components. Students will complete a project that will demonstrate their engineering skills to potential employers.

Level Two English Communication Skills

This class is designed to help students gain  Level Two credits through unit standards while developing practical English skills.
Students will strengthen their reading comprehension and demonstrate their understanding through structured writing tasks. They will also create written work with a clear purpose and structure. Additionally, students will have opportunities to develop their oral language skills through regular participation in small-group discussions.

This course is for people for whom English an additional language. Course work includes reading, writing, speaking, listening, grammar and vocabulary in English. Particular emphasis is placed on reading and writing, which are major components of mainstream subjects and future tertiary study. English Language has Unit Standards, which are endorsed as Achieved or Not Achieved.

This English course is an in-depth study of visual language. Most of the credits gained will be through internal assessments that allow the students to explore the world of film. The main focus of this course is for students to gain all of their University Entrance Reading and Writing credits through internal assessment.

Students will also be entered into one external achievement standard based on their film study.

To gain entrance into this course students need a minimum of 12 NCEA Level One English achievement standard credits. At least 4 of these credits must be from any one of the external achievement standards.

A future-focused achievement standard based course, Learning by designing, making, and testing real-world engineering projects. 

Terms 1 and 2, student teams jump straight into the global, Formula 1- endorsed STEM Racing challenge. Continue using Autodesk Fusion CAD and aerodynamic simulation software to sculpt a miniature racing car, manage manufacturing tolerances, and race your physical 3D-printed vehicle down a 20-meter elevated track powered by compressed air
cartridges.

In Term 3, we scale these exact design skills up to full-sized applications to prepare you for Year 13 by shifting to the Evolocity electric vehicle ecosystem process. 

Students are offered 16 credits 12 Internal
This grounded, future-focused course ensures that if students choose to progress to Year 13, they have already built the mechatronics and structural foundations needed to hit the ground running at an elite engineering level at University or in the real world.

Geography & Environmental Studies at Level 2 

Geography is a mix of science, statistics, and English, making it perfect for building a wide range of skills. You’ll learn how the Earth works, explore issues impacting the Amazon Rainforest, investigate homicide in Chicago, solve a current environmental issue and create your own business plan. You’ll analyse data, and communicate your ideas clearly in writing and presentations.

Studying geography keeps your university options wide open, whether you're into science, social studies, or the arts. It’s also a stepping stone to amazing careers like environmental science, foreign affairs, regional and urban planning, commerce, conservation, and GIS - fields that help shape the world and make a real impact.

Geography helps you understand the world and gives you the tools to change it.

Geography related careers include:

Geologist

Foreign Affairs 

Urban and Regional Planning

Environmental Science 

Conservation

Landscape Architect

Commerce

Geotechnical Engineer 

Drone Mapping & Remote Sensing

Natural Hazards Analyst

Level 2 Health aims to develop critical thinking skills, interpersonal skills such as communication, advocacy and networking and research skills.

During this course students will investigate a variety of health issues. Topics include gender and sexuality, health promotion, adolescent issues and resilience through mental health.

This course is an achievement standard based course, that keeps all academic pathways open for future subject selection including working towards University Entrance in future years and supports students ability to endorse with Merit and Excellence at Level 2. 

Level 2 Health will offer a minimum of 14 credits and students will be required to have a reasonable level of reading and writing for this course. 

To understand the present we need to understand the past and how it has impacted on our present. In this way we can avoid repeating our mistakes. History is a literacy rich course which teaches the skills of research, communication, resource interpretation, report writing, problem solving and essay writing. 

It explores;

• the Russian Revolution
• Victorian England and migration to NZ

History related careers include:

• Academic Librarian
• Lawyer
• Editorial Assistant
• Museum Education Officer
• Gallery Curator
• Archivist
• Researcher
• Journalist

Students will be looking at the development of food products both in the classroom and in the commercial environment while developing advanced practical skills. This course builds a foundation for the Hospitality industry.

 This course is recommended for students who are considering a pathway in any of the varied and dynamic legal careers available in today's job market and for those students who are interested in following a career in politics or public policy. In Level 2 Legal Studies topics include contract law, litigation, the Treaty of Waitangi, the court system and the role of the legislature, executive and judiciary in law making in New Zealand. Students do not need to have completed the NCEA Level 1 Legal Studies course to enrol in NCEA Level 2 Legal Studies. 

Here is an overview of some rewarding legal career opportunities: Workplace Relations Advisor, Legal Nurse Consultant, E-Discovery Consultant, Public Order and Safety (Police), the Defence Force, Jury Consultant, Trial Consultant, Legal Executive, Personal Assistant, Office Administration Specialist and Legal Assistant in banks, government departments and other large organisations. 

This course continues to develop the mathematical skills and understanding from the previous year's work. This course includes new concepts such as Probability Distributions.

This course will continue to develop your problem solving and logical thinking skills, which are needed to be able to solve unfamiliar practical and mathematical problems.

This course covers the strands of Mathematics Number, Measurement, Geometry, Statistics and Mathematical Processes. The course will be accessed by internal assessment with the opportunity to sit one externally assessed standard.  

Entry into this course is at the discretion of the Head of Mathematics.

This course continues to develop the mathematical skills and understanding from the previous year's work. This course includes new concepts such as Calculus and Probability Distributions.

This course will continue to develop your problem solving and logical thinking skills, which are needed to be able to solve unfamiliar practical and mathematical problems.

This course covers all the strands of Mathematics, Number, Measurement, Geometry, Algebra, Statistics and Mathematical Processes. The course will be assessed by both internal and external assessments. 

If you took Music in Year 11, Level 2 builds on those skills and takes things up a notch. One of the biggest parts of this course is performing – you'll get to play both solo and in groups with your classmates.

You can get free lessons in piano, guitar and bass!

The course is split into 3 main parts:

Performing – Show off your skills on your instrument or voice, both alone and with a group.
Exploring music styles – Learn about different kinds of music and what makes them unique.
Writing your own music – Try your hand at composing your own songs and musical pieces.

Music Co-curricular Activities:

RLHS Musical Production, Smokefree Showquest, Rockquest and Tangata Beats, Play it Strange Songwriting competition, RLHS Talent Quest, Lunchtime concerts, assembly performances, New Zealand Music Commission Mentoring workshops, EPIC Night Out and many more.

Continuation:  NCEA Level 3 Music

The Primary ITO Trade Academy is a unique partnership between Rotorua Lakes High, Primary ITO, and primary industry employers. Blending classroom study with on-job learning. Students specialise in an area of the Primary ITO and complete standards in that Industry’s chosen discipline.

Students must have taken Level 1 NZ Primary Industries Trade Academy

The work developed for assessment for both internal and external assessments will be project based investigations around themes. These themes will centre on various photographic conventions and use a variety of interesting established artist models to help guide students to a successful body of practical work in each unit.

In this course students will learn to use a Digital camera with manual controls. The course is taught in a Fine Arts context using professional artist models as a method of study and a means of developing a body of original works in series towards assessment. Students will also be taught Digital Photography and Photoshop manipulation, for beginners or advanced students.

Career pathways include Journalistic Photography, Fashion Photography, Advertising, Television and Film Production, Design Pathways and Fine Arts and Portrait Photography.

A study of Mechanics, Optics, Electricity and Nuclear Physics with Energy the theme, integrating the whole course.  As physics is heavily mathematics based a strong understanding of Level 1 Mathematics is recommended.

Level 2 Practical PE is a unit standard based course. The focus areas include, participation, communication & social responsibility in a range of sport and recreation settings, as well as stretching, fitness and performance for physical activity.  Potential learning contexts include sports, high ropes, ABL and aquatics based activities. This course requires students full participation and self management in all aspects of this course.  Please note that for some assessments, video evidence of students performance is required as part of this course.  

This course is suitable for students who have demonstrated high engagement and participation in PE at Y11 and who have the work ethic and literacy levels to cope with 

Level 2 work. 

Approval into this course takes into consideration teacher recommendations as well as HOD approval. 

This course will offer a minimum of 15 credits.

The focus in this course is on practical activities as well as research and the application of Science concepts across various Science strands. This course will involve practical laboratory work and the opportunity to undertake a Science investigation in the field. Standards are offered in 3 of the Science strands; Biology, Chemistry and Physics.

Level 2 Sport Science (SPS) provides an academic learning environment about sports performance and analysis. It is an achievement standard based course, where students will learn a range of skills, principles and concepts which are primarily taught and applied in a practical setting and supported by theory. The learning contexts of this course can include the planning & implementation of PE camp, application of biophysical principles, applying social responsibility and creating and completing a training program. 

Sports Science is an achievement standard based course, that keeps all academic pathways open for future subject selection, contributes towards University Entrance at Level 3 and supports students ability to endorse with Merit and Excellence at Level 2. Sports Science will benefit students who are interested and motivated to learn academically about the body, movement and performance and for students who are potentially looking at a future career pathways in the Physical Education industry.      

This course will offer a minimum of 15 credits.

Te Ao Haka is a new performance-based subject that provides opportunities for ākonga to engage in Māori culture, language, and tradiongal practices.  Ākonga learn their whakapapa, history and language through the medium of haka and is combined with traditional and contemporary culture. 

Ākonga can achieve Te Ao Haka Level 1, 2 and 3 credits that contribute towards NCEA and University Entrance (UE).   Scholarships in Te Ao Haka are also offered. 

This course will cover topics aligned to the external NCEA Level 2 Te Reo Māori . The topics may include Te Marae – Tikanga, Kawa, Hui - Pohiri, Tangihanga, Sports and Recreation today, traditional Māori games and Pastimes, Ko ngā tūmanako, Ko ngā Kōrero Pūrākau me ngā Pakiwaitara.

This course is an introduction to Māori Tikanga, History and Georgraphy.  It provides Unit Standard credits towards NCEA Level 2.  The topics during the year will include the following:  Declaration of Independence, Treaty of Waitangi, Hāhi Māori, Impact of Christianity, Māori Leader, Pūrākau within Te Ao Māori and Pakiwaitara within Te Ao Māori.  Assessments will cover two open book tests, power points and essays.  In this course students have the opportunity to achieve 27 credits.

It is intended that Te Waharoa is an initiative that will address all of the following:

• Increase student retention to Year 13.
• Ensure students leave school with some qualification/credits towards NCEA
• Provide a programme that will be of high interest to Māori students.
• Extend beyond the classroom and academic achievement and provide pastoral support for students.
• Build strong links with the students participants and their whanau
• Support/Facilitate transition to the workplace for students.
• Support student exploration of appropriate career pathways.

This course offers an introduction to the diverse fashion world and associated design pathways. There are further study opportunities at polytechnic or university which offer a wide range of careers in areas such as design, merchandising, product development, production, interior design.

This course offers concepts of design, pattern making, and construction skills using   a variety of fabrics  to achieve a quality finish.

The main reason to study travel and tourism is to work in this significant industry. Hotels, airlines, destinations, attractions, transportation, cruises, events, activity providers, shopping centres, tourist services, travel agents, tour operators and many others together form this industry which is one of the largest export earners in New Zealand. It is in constant growth and needs more and more skilled workers and innovators every year.  Tourism is such a large employer locally and nationally this course is a great introduction to the industry.

12 Tourism explores;

• the different types of tourists
• the career opportunities in the tourism industry
• the different countries of the world
• New Zealand as a tourist destination
• the history of tourism
• the impacts of tourism
• the calculations associated with tourism

Tourism careers include;

      Flight Attendant                 Marketing co-ordinator

      Travel Agent                      Tour Guide

      Hotel Management           Event and Conference Organiser

      Activity Operator               Customer Service Operator

This course is for those students who wish to extend and develop their skills in Whakarongo, Pānui, Kōrero, Tuhituhi.

This course will cover topics aligned to the NCEA Level 3 external examinations. The topics may include: Te Ao Hurihuri, Te Ao Tōrangapu, Mōteatea/ Waiata/ Haka, Ngā Kōrero o Neherā/ Pakiwaitara/Pūrākau, Famous tribal leaders born before/after 1900, Marae – Ao Hou/Ao Tawhito.

Te Reo Māori is a portfolio subject. Students will need to work towards each language mode during the year. Final grades for internal assessments will be awarded at the beginning of Term 4.

Continued development in the individualised programme run by Whaea Lucille

NCEA Level 2 Achievement Standard English

Students who wish to take Level 3 English should be taking this course.  This course will explore a range of challenging written, visual and oral texts. Students will be immersed in English literature through both novels and films. Students focus will be to gain all of their University Entrance Reading and Writing credits through internal assessment. They will also complete 2 External Achievement Standards to enhance their learning. 

To gain entrance into this course students need a minimum of 12 NCEA Level One English achievement standard credits. At least 4 of these credits must be from any one of the external achievement standards. Students should also have a high level of confidence in English.

Level Two English Communication Skills

This class is designed to help students gain  Level Two credits through unit standards while developing practical English skills.
Students will strengthen their reading comprehension and demonstrate their understanding through structured writing tasks. They will also create written work with a clear purpose and structure. Additionally, students will have opportunities to develop their oral language skills through regular participation in small-group discussions.

This English course is an in-depth study of visual language. Most of the credits gained will be through internal assessments that allow the students to explore the world of film. The main focus of this course is for students to gain all of their University Entrance Reading and Writing credits through internal assessment.

Students will also be entered into one external achievement standard based on their film study.

To gain entrance into this course students need a minimum of 12 NCEA Level One English achievement standard credits. At least 4 of these credits must be from any one of the external achievement standards.

Level 3 AOE focuses on developing leadership in outdoor education by building on students’ competence, knowledge, and ability to plan and support others in outdoor environments.

Students will take a lead role in organising and participating in experiences such as tramping, mountain biking, and environmental learning. They will be expected to show initiative, manage risk, and support group safety and wellbeing.

The course also explores personal development and deeper environmental connection through mātauranga Māori, with concepts like rangatiratanga and manaakitanga, guiding how students interact with people and place.

This course is well suited to students with a strong interest in the outdoors who want to grow as leaders and explore pathways in outdoor education, adventure tourism, or environmental work.

This course is strictly capped at maximum of 20 students.

Want to learn to paint? Then this course is for you! This course will benefit you if you are contemplating a career in  any of the the Creative Industries. Interested in digital work using a tablet? We have a set of industry standard tablets that we use to teach digital painting.

There are a wide range of career pathways available from this subject: Film and Television, illustration, design etc. This course is also designed to cater for the individual student, by focusing on what YOU want to do in your art, reflecting your current interests and passions.  Beginners can be admitted into this course.

Students will study the following topics: Plant behaviour and animal responses, cell biology and gene expression, a contemporary biological issue, evolution, biotechnology and human evolution.

This course is suited to students with practical and/or design skills who are looking at trade or design careers. There is a focus on practical skills and assessment using standards from the furniture industry. The course has no cross-over standards with 13 Product Design, which allows students to do both courses. Students will have the opportunity to build an entertainment unit using woodworking machines and skills.

The Level 3 Chemistry course builds on the knowledge and skills gained in Level 2.  The course explores the physical and chemical properties of a range of substances, it develops an understanding of the basic fundamentals of chemistry and how chemistry is used in society to meet needs, resolve issues and develop new technologies. 

It prepares students for entry into a number of tertiary studies including Health sciences, Engineering, and Science.

Level 3 Childcare is a unit standard based course that introduces the skills and knowledge involved in the education and care of infants, toddlers and young children.  

The aim is to:

• Develop the knowledge and understanding of Te Whariki 
• Develop the knowledge and confidence required to responsibly care for a child
• Develop the knowledge base for future confident learning and parenting
• Teach basic skills required for positive parenting  and/ or education of young children
• Develop an understanding of child development 

Level 2 Childcare works through a variety of unit standards supplied through Whanau Awhina/Plunket. 

Classical Studies is the study of the civilisations of Classical Greece and Rome. We study them because of the historical importance of classical civilisation in the cultural tradition of Western Europe, which is an important part of contemporary New Zealand culture. In Classical Greece and Rome are the origins of much of our art, science, literature, law, philosophy, politics and religion. Included in this subject are topics from ancient history, literature and art. This subject can be endorsed with Achieved, Merit or Excellence.

Level 3 Dance is designed for students who are passionate about movement and ready to take their performance and choreographic abilities to a professional standard. This course encourages creative leadership, critical thinking, and personal expression through dance.

Students will:

• Perform with Confidence and Style: Learn and present complex dance works with precision, artistry, and presence.
• Choreograph with Purpose: Design and structure original choreography to clearly communicate themes, ideas, or messages.
• Critically Analyse Dance: Study and reflect on influential dance works, styles, and choreographers to inform their own practice.
• Lead Collaboratively: Take creative responsibility when working with others in group choreography and performance tasks.

Assessments are both practical and theoretical, preparing students for tertiary pathways or careers in the performing arts, education, fitness, and creative industries.

Co-Curricular Opportunities Include:

• Dance NZ Made Competitions – Showcase your skills at a national level
• School Productions – Take leading roles in major performance events
• Epic Night Out and other school and community showcases
• Show Quest
• Talent Quest
• School Assemblies

Level 3 Dance empowers students to refine their craft, express their identity, and contribute meaningfully to creative projects. It’s the perfect course for those ready to lead through movement and performance.

This course will cover topics such as communicating design ideas, Product and Spatial Design. Students will use Microsoft Office and Computer Aided Draughting (Autocad, Revit, Inventor) for digital design and presentation. This subject will lead to pathways in the areas of Engineering, Graphic Design, Architecture, Landscaping, Manufacturing, Technology, Construction and Infrastructure industries.

Computational Thinking for Digital Technologies enables students to express problems and formulate solutions in ways that mean a computer (an information processing agent) can be used to solve them. In this area, students develop:

• Students analyse concepts in digital technologies by explaining the relevant mechanisms that underpin them, how they are used in real world applications, and the key problems or issues related to them.
• Students discuss the purpose of a selection of data structures and evaluate their use in terms of trade-offs between performance and storage requirements and their suitability for different algorithms.
• They use an iterative process to design, develop, document and test advanced computer programs.

Designing and developing digital outcomes: In this area, students understand that digital applications and systems are created for humans by humans.

• students independently investigate a specialised digital technologies area and propose possible solutions to issues they identify.
• students work independently or within collaborative cross-functional teams to apply an iterative development process to plan, design, develop, test and create quality, fit-for-purpose digital outcomes that enable their solutions, synthesising relevant social, ethical and end-user considerations as they develop digital content.

Level 3 Drama is designed for students who are ready to take their performance skills and creative thinking to a professional level. Students will explore complex scripts, experiment with advanced drama techniques, and take creative leadership in devising original theatre.

This course challenges students to:

• Interpret and perform sophisticated texts with depth and insight
• Apply advanced techniques to create powerful, truthful performances
• Direct and devise original work with a clear artistic vision
• Analyse and reflect critically on dramatic processes and performance styles

Students will work both independently and collaboratively, developing self-management, leadership, and creative problem-solving—skills highly valued in the arts and beyond.

There are also rich opportunities for students to showcase their talents through:

• Sheilah Winn Shakespeare Festival
• ShowQuest
• Epic Night Out
• School Production

Level 3 Drama supports future pathways in performing arts, theatre, film, education, communication, and creative industries. It is ideal for students passionate about performance and ready to push creative boundaries.

Studying Level 3 Economics enables students to develop a continuing, informed interest in current economic issues which will allow them to take an effective active part in economic activity throughout their lifetime.  The course explores both microeconomic and macroeconomic concepts: 

• The microeconomics aspect has a focus on markets and their efficiency and equity. Students will also explore how Government intervention impacts these markets. 
• The macroeconomics part of the course aims to develop students understanding of how the nature and size of the current New Zealand economy is influenced by interacting internal factors e.g. falling house prices in Auckland and Wellington and external factors such as growing demand for NZ exports.

Students will complete the two Economics internal assessments (worth 10 credits) and two Economics external assessment. Economics is an approved subject for University Entrance (UE).

This is a full year's course covering Engineering Drawing, machining and fabrication.  This course is for students considering careers such as tool making, fitting, fabrication and general engineering or  needing a pathway to university. This course offers Achievement standards and/or unit standards.

It is essential that students understand the importance of safety in the Engineering Workshop.   Safe behaviour is essential at all times, and student who puts themselves or others at risk will be removed from the workshop immediately and possibly permanently.

NCEA Level 3 English

Students study literature and language, including a film, written texts, and style analysis. There is a focus on report writing and writing argumentative essays. Level 3 English is a fundamental foundation for tertiary studies in media, management, the arts, commerce, advertising, and law. This subject can be endorsed with Achieved with Merit or Excellence. 

This course is for people for whom English is an additional language. Course work includes reading, writing, speaking, listening, vocabulary and grammar in English. Particular emphasis is placed on reading and writing, which are major components of mainstream subjects and future tertiary education. English Language has NCEA Unit Standards, which are endorsed as Achieved, Merit or Excellence at level 3. 

Geography at Level 3 

Geography isn’t just about maps and capital cities—it’s one of the most exciting and useful subjects you can study at school. It mixes science, statistics, and English, making it perfect for building a wide range of skills. You’ll learn how the Earth works, explore issues like the destruction of coral reefs, pest control in New Zealand, and the awesome forces that created Tongariro National Park. You’ll analyse data, and communicate your ideas clearly in writing and presentations.

Studying geography keeps your university options wide open, whether you're into science, social studies, or the arts. It’s also a stepping stone to amazing careers like environmental science, foreign affairs, regional and urban planning, commerce, conservation, and GIS (Geographic Information Systems)—fields that help shape the world and make a real impact.

Geography helps you understand the world—and gives you the tools to change it.

Geography related careers include:

Environmental Science 

Urban & Regional Planning 

Conservation

GIS (Drone Mapping and Remote Sensing)

Landscape Architect

Commerce

Geotechnical Engineer

Statistical Analyst

Level 3 Health is a University Entrance approved subject which complements anyone wishing to enter into social services or healthcare.

Students will analyse influencing factors on societal health issues, examine their impact on personal, interpersonal and societal wellbeing and explain societal strategies to improve health outcomes. Topics include New Zealand health issues, international health issues, health practices in contemporary New Zealand and current ethical issues in New Zealand.

This course is an achievement standard based course that works towards University Entrance in future years and supports students ability to endorse with Merit and Excellence at Level 3. 

Health offers a minimum of 14 credits and requires students to have a reasonable level of reading and writing.  

To understand the present we need to understand the past and how it has impacted on our present. In this way we can avoid repeating our mistakes. History is a literacy rich course which teaches the skills of research, communication, resource interpretation, report writing, problem solving and essay writing. 

It will cover the following content:

Nineteenth Century NZ 

Vietnam War.

Jobs related to History include;

• Lawyer
• Researcher
• Archivist
• Journalist
• Political Commentator
• MP
• Heritage curator/inspector
• Museum Curator
• Foreign Affairs and policy analyst
• Trade Commissioner

Students will be looking at the development of food products both in the classroom and in the commercial environment while developing advanced practical skills. This course builds a foundation for the Hospitality industry.

Students will be offered the opportunity to participate in a Barista course which supports Hospitality career and study pathway.

Why study legal studies?

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. The legal market today is thriving and there are a number of satisfying and stimulating career opportunities that sit outside a formal law degree. New regulations, economic growth, advances in technology and rising caseloads have fuelled the demand for a growing range of talented legal professionals. 

Here is an overview of some rewarding legal career opportunities: Workplace Relations Advisor, Legal Nurse Consultant, E-Discovery Consultant, Public Order and Safety (Police), the Defence Force, Jury Consultant, Trial Consultant, Legal Executive, Personal Assistant, Office Administration Specialist and Legal Assistant in banks, government departments and other large organisations. 

This course extends the work started in NCEA Level Two with an emphasis on Calculus. The course will help to gain skills in logical thinking and problem solving.

It is highly recommended that Students who are also studying NCEA Level 3 Physics should study Calculus.

This course extends the work started in NCEA Level 2 with an emphasis on Statistics, Probability, Time Series and Statistical Processes.

If you took Music in Year 12, Level 3 builds on those skills and takes things up a notch. One of the biggest parts of this course is performing – you'll get to play both solo and in groups with your classmates.

Even better? You can get free lessons in piano, guitar, drums, or singing!

The course is split into 3 main parts:

Performing – Show off your skills on your instrument or voice, both alone and with a group.
Exploring music styles – Learn about different kinds of music and what makes them unique.
Writing your own music – Try your hand at composing your own songs and musical pieces.

Music Co-curricular Activities:

RLHS Musical Production, Smokefree Showquest, Rockquest and Tangata Beats, Play it Strange Songwriting competition, RLHS Talent Quest, Lunchtime concerts, assembly performances, New Zealand Music Commission Mentoring workshops, EPIC Night Out and many more.

This course will focus on digital processes and Photoshop techniques, and the potential for inclusion of various Fine Arts practices.

The work developed for assessment for both internal and external assessments will be project based investigations around themes. These themes will use a variety of interesting professional Artist Models to help guide to a successful body of practical work in each unit. Independent research is a key aspect in developing work at Level 3.

You will need to have your own digital camera with aperture priority settings, a USB stick of 2GB, and a keen and motivated attitude. 

Students will study the following topics:

• Mechanics expanding on topics from last year and introducing simple harmonic motion.
• Waves, traveling waves, standing waves, interference and Doppler Effect.
• Electricity study of AC and DC in capacitors, inductors and resistors.
• Atomic physics looking at nuclei of atoms and photons.

Level 3 Practical PE is a unit standard based course which focuses learning and skills around fitness, team sports, leadership, team work and kaitiakitanga of natural environments. This course is designed for physically active students who have completed PE at senior levels and who will commit and fully participate in all aspects of this course including the fieldtrips, fitness, outdoor leadership and kaitiakitanga activities involved. Students must have good self management and participation in PE and a recommendation from their senior PE teacher.  

 Please note, while 13PPE does support achievement of Level 3 NCEA, it DOES NOT meet requirements to support University Entrance or endorsement at Level 3 NCEA. Video evidence of students performance is required as part of this course.

This Technology course is aimed at students considering tertiary study and a career in creative industries such as Industrial or Commercial Design, Furniture Design, Domestic Product Design, Set Design for theatre or film, Interior Design, Landscape Design etc.

This project based course considers the wider environmental and social impacts of design. You will identify a need or opportunity for design to address an issue that you have chosen to investigate. Your design solution will not only meet functional and aesthetic requirements but will also address sustainability of resources, maintenance requirements and ethical considerations.

Level 3 Sport Science is an achievement standard based course. The learning  areas cover a range of contexts where students learning is focused around the analysis and evaluation of Biophysical, Sociocultural and Exercise physiology concepts. Students will analyse and reflect on physical activity experiences, performance and events and consider the future impacts these have. In level 3 students are applying critical thought, analysis and evaluation on physical activity and their research and writing skills are essential for success in this course.

13SPS is an academic option that supports students ability to endorse with Merit and Excellence at Level 3. It is a University Entrance approved subject and has at least one standard that works towards UE Literacy. 

This course is only recommended for students who have successfully passed Level 2 SPS or who have specific HOD recommendation. 

Te Ao Haka is a new performance-based subject that provides opportunities for ākonga to engage in Māori culture, language, and tradiongal practices.  Ākonga learn their whakapapa, history and language through the medium of haka and is combined with traditional and contemporary culture. 

Ākonga can achieve Te Ao Haka Level 1, 2 and 3 credits that contribute towards NCEA and University Entrance (UE).   Scholarships in Te Ao Haka are also offered. 

This course is for those students who wish to extend and develop their skills in Whakarongo, Pānui, Kōrero, Tuhituhi.

This course will cover topics aligned to the NCEA Level 3 external examinations. The topics may include: Te Ao Hurihuri, Te Ao Tōrangapu, Mōteatea/ Waiata/ Haka, Ngā Kōrero o Neherā/ Pakiwaitara/Pūrākau, Famous tribal leaders born before/after 1900, Marae – Ao Hou/Ao Tawhito.

Te Reo Māori is a portfolio subject. Students will need to work towards each language mode during the year. Final grades for internal assessments will be awarded at the beginning of Term 4.

This course is an introduction to Māori Tikanga, History and Geography.  It provides Unit Standard credits towards NCEA Level 3.  The topics during the year will include the following:  English and Māori versions of te Tiriti o Waitangi/the Treaty of Waitangi, Dispossession of Māori land, Historical Events for one Hapū or Iwi post-Pākehā contact, How Māori manage the environment, Establishment and main characteristics of Hāhi Māori and Changing roles for Māori women throughout history.  Assessments will entail power points, essays and posters.  In this course students have the opportunity to achieve 29 credits.

It is intended that Te Waharoa is an initiative that will address all of the following:

• Increase student retention to the end of Year 13.
• Ensure students leave school with some qualification/credits towards NCEA
• Provide a programme that will be of high interest to Māori students.
• Extend beyond the classroom and academic achievement and provide pastoral support for students.
• Build strong links with the students participants and their whanau
• Support/Facilitate transition to the workplace for students.
• Support student exploration of appropriate career pathways.

The aim of this course  is to provide students with interest in a creative and diverse career with opportunities to study further at Polytechnic and university

Students will utilise a range of design processes and consider trends.  Students will take an everyday look and infuse it with their own personal style, or start from scratch and design a unique garment using their own pattern block.

Students will develop an understanding of construction methods and materials, and will learn ways to document and communicate their designs. Students will be encouraged to develop their ability to combine colours and shapes and line.

12 extra credits available.

The main reason to study travel and tourism is to work in this significant industry. Hotels, airlines, destinations, attractions, transportation, cruises, events, activity providers, shopping centres, tourist services, travel agents, tour operators and many others together form this industry which is one of the largest export earners in New Zealand. It is in constant growth and needs more and more skilled workers and innovators every year.  Tourism is such a large employer locally and nationally this course is a great introduction to the industry.

Year 13 Tourism explores;

• Australia as a tourist destination
• Pacific Islands a tourist destination
• New Zealand as a tourist destination
• Impacts of tourism
• Te Reo Maori greetings for the tourism industry
• Background of Te Reo Maori place names

Tourism careers include;

      Flight Attendant                 Marketing co-ordinator

      Travel Agent                      Tour Guide

      Hotel Management           Event and Conference Organiser

      Activity Operator               Customer Service Operator

This course will involve research on the impact of each science strand in today’s world. Students will also get the opportunity to undertake a science investigation in the field.

Continued development in the individualised programme run by Whaea Lucille