Rotorua Lakes High School

This course is an extension from core Year 9 PE and prepares students for the academic pathway into Advanced Physical Education in Year 10 and senior school PE. It covers topics such as Anatomy and looks at learning and research focused on NZ Athletes and involves a mixture of theory (classroom) and practical lessons. This option is for students who are keen on sports and fitness and the higher level learning involved in PE. 

Year 9 Art is a fun beginners course,  designed to give students the fundamental skills required in later years. This begins with drawing skills, and then continues on into a design task, which requires students to design a family shield. This course is an ideal choice for students who are planning to continue into year 10 and then onwards to senior Painting, Photography, Design and Sculpture.  

The Design and Visual Communications course covers freehand sketching, rendering (colour), instrumental drawing and the design process. Interest is developed by using specialised equipment, learning set standards of presentation and the completion of individual work. The design brief approach is introduced and students can develop broad graphic communication skills, explore the design process and gain some appreciation of good design. Students will also be introduced to computer drawing programme called Revit for interior and exterior house design. 

This fun course is designed for those students who enjoy creating Art and Design using technology. Students will be taught the fundamentals of Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, as well as how to draw with Wacom tablets. Students will learn to draw up their own characters with both pencil and using digital tablets. They will then learn the basics of digital painting to design an environment for their original character. The basics of type and logo design are also covered  using Adobe Illustrator.

The Financial Literacy course will focus on developing financial skills for students. Financial ideas explored could include:

Goal Setting

Budgeting

Saving

Managing Debt

Investing

Insurance

Retirement Planning

Kiwisaver

The Food Technology course covers techniques and processes needed  to advance  foundation knowledge of the technology process by interpreting a brief, planning, designing a product.   . Through this course students will gain social and co-operative skills through the extensive use of group work. They will also build on the practical and organisational skills they gained in Year 8.

Hard Materials Technology encourages students to participate in a creative process of planning, designing and evaluating to produce a unique project. 

Students will design and make their own clock which they will be able to take home once it has been finished to a high standard.  

This course is an enjoyable practical introduction to playing, performing and understanding Music. Students will study different genres and styles of Music and the skills of reading and writing Music.

Do you tap your feet to any beat or enjoy dancing or acting? Then Drama & Dance is the subject for you!

 In 2021 this is a creative outlet which covers a fun introduction to both both drama and dance.  This is a practical and fun course that will allow you to build your confidence and experience the many different styles and elements of dance and drama. It will develop your skills and ability to perform, and create routines and skills that work across both these areas. Although both subjects will be covered, the course will have a dance or drama focus, dependent on what students are most interested in.  This is a practical and performance focused course. 

• You will work either solo, duo or in a small group.
• You will perform for your peers and be peer reviewed by them.
• You will be filmed for assessment purposes.

Key Competencies that you will gain in this subject: Thinking. Using Language. Symbols and Texts. Managing Self. Relating to Others. Participating and Contributing.

This programme is focused on the idea of providing practical  opportunities for students  to experience an interdisciplinary approach to learning.  If you are innovative and creative thinker - whether it be about using objects, or experimenting with computers and want to learn to program a robot, then this is the subject for you.

Design is about innovation. While developing the skills and knowledge that industry currently demands, you'll also be pushing the limits and, in a sense, forging the future of design practice. During lessons and your teacher will show you how to take an experimental approach to design that encourages creative and thoughtful design solutions for an outcome ie game design, robotics, etc.

There will be opportunities to participate in programming competitions such as Robotics Competition, Aquabots etc.

Leading to Digital Technology  and /or Robotics at Year 10 .  It strongly recommended that students choose one or both of these options to support  pathways in the senior school.

Te Ao Haka is an introductory performance-based subject for Year 9/10 students, focusing on Maori culture and haka.  Developed by kapa haka masters, it combines traditional and contemporary elements, teaching whakapapa, history and language through haka.  Students learn cultural pride and responsibility, fostering a positive environment for creative expression and contributing to the art form's growth.

The Year 9 Māori course is designed for students who are totally new to learning the Māori language or for students who have basic Māori language skills already. The course develops skills in reading, writing, speaking and listening to Te Reo Māori. The course will cover at least four topics such as: whānau (family), kai (food), kura (school) and mihimihi (greetings). You will also have the chance to do taster lessons in Māori Performing Arts, Māori Arts and Crafts and Māori games. This course can progress to Year 10 Te Reo Maori and NCEA Te Reo Maori.

The Reo-Rumaki class is designed for students who have come from total immersion or bilingual classes at primary, intermediate or kura kaupapa. As it is delivered 80% in Te Reo Māori, entry into this subject is via the Year 9 Rumaki core class OR at the discretion of the HOD Māori,and/or the Principal. Students in this class may work towards an NCEA pathway depending on their fluency in Te Reo Māori in both written and spoken Māori. The course topics for this class include: Te Kura, Mihimihi, Tōku Kāinga, Te Marae, Pōhiri and Te Ao Taiohi.

Textiles and Fashion Technology involves creating with fibre, yarn and fabric, and learning skills that will enable students to manipulate various soft materials. This course is based on the technology process which encourages the students to plan and design, creating a unique product and BE CREATIVE!

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.

10APE is an extension from core PE in Year 10 and supports students who are looking at opting into senior levels of Physical Education, primarily Sports Science in future years.  This course is designed to take a closer look at topics such as:  Anatomy, Biomechanics and Exercise Physiology, teaching the fundamental principles that are commonly used throughout senior PE.  

This course is an academic option which is primarily taught in a practical setting and supported with theory based learning around each set of biophysical principles.  

This course is highly recommended for anyone wanting to potentially take Sports Science in senior school. 

This course is a fun introduction to the many pathways available in Arts.  The course is designed to cover the disciplines of Painting, Photography, Printmaking, Design and Sculpture.  This course will prepare students for the continuation in Visual Arts in the Senior school by introducing them to a variety of media and techniques.

The option will teach students:

• How to draw and paint from observation
• A range of technical skills using a range of media
• The units are fun, easy and designed as entry level for all students that have an interest or passion for creative career pathways, or want to develop their creative talents.

Continuation:  Level 1 Painting & Printmaking, Level 1 Mixed Media Photography and Level 1 Sculpture

Whatever the environment, all of us are affected by business.  Business Studies involves the study of how people make key decisions at work, at leisure and at home which affect our daily lives. The study of business is about how individuals and groups of people organise, plan, and act to create and develop goods and services to satisfy customers.  

Business Studies involves more than just sales and profit calculations.  It is about solving problems, communicating ideas and using judgment.  In this course you will get first hand experience at doing all of these things in relation to the creation and sales of products.

Business Studies is an option at Year 10 for students who will study 3 periods per week over two terms.

This course explores:   

• Business Organisations
• Marketing
• Enterprise
• Financial Literacy

This course will appeal to you if you want to study a subject that is relevant to your life and experiences.  You will learn about different types of businesses and their areas of expertise. You will explore marketing ideas which make a business successful and examine the most valuable resources for a business – people. You will also create your own business idea and construct a business plan and apply all the concepts you learn on a Market Day enterprise project.

Computer aided drawing and design is an introduction for students to create full 2D and 3D architectural project models and set them up in working drawings using Autodesk Revit and Inventor.  This is a computer based course where students will develop their skills and knowledge using the software and apply this to design brief.

Course Objectives:

• Navigate the Autodesk Revit and Inventor workspace and interface
• Working with basic drawing and editing tools
• Create and modify levels and grids
• Create a 3D building model with walls, windows and doors
• Create floors, ceilings and roofs for the building model
• Create, modify, load and manage components
• Work with drawing sheets and title blocks
• Develop and present a solution for a design problem
• Complete drawing documentation for a project

Continuation:  NCEL Level 1 Design & Visual Communication (DVC)

Design and Visual Communication is the communication of ideas and information through the medium of drawing.  Learning to draw and understand simple drawings is fundamental to human development and communication.  In Design & Visual Communication, interest is developed by using specialised equipment, learning set standards of presentation and the completion of individual work.  The design brief approach has been used in Design & Visual Communication and students can develop broad graphic communication skills, fully explore the design process and gain an appreciation of good design.

Students will learn to:

• Focus on where visual literacy and creative thinking is developed, using visual communication techniques
• Build on basic knowledge, practical and organisational skills gained in Year 9
• Produce freehand sketches that communicate design ideas
• Use rendering techniques to communicate the form of design ideas
• Produce instrumental drawings that communicate technical features of design ideas
• Develop design ideas through Design & Visual Communication Practice.

There may also be an opportunity to learn CAD – Computer Aided Design.

Continuation:  NCEA Level 2 Design & Visual Communication

This fun course is designed for those students who enjoy creating Art and Design using technology. Students will be taught the fundamentals of Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, as well as how to draw with Wacom tablets. Students will learn to draw up their own characters with both pencil and using digital tablets. They will then learn the basics of digital painting to design an environment for their original character. The basics of type and logo design are also covered  using Adobe Illustrator. This course leads on from Year 9 Design, however any year 10 student may opt into this course as there are no prerequisites. 

Students can opt for BOTH Year 10 Art courses next year if they wish: 10 ART and 10DES

Continuation:  This course leads into both Year 11 Art courses: Mixed Media and Photography and Paint and Print. Is also has a pathway further up into Year 12 and 13 Design.

Digital Technology supports students to create solutions to problems where the outcome is anything that can be stored digitally.  In this area, students understand digital applications and systems are created for humans by humans.

Students will learn"

• How to design and develop a creative digital outcome, evaluate, recognize potential risks
• How to develop a simple website structured in HTML and style in CSS
• Plan, write and produce a storyboard to develop a stop-motion animation
• How to be safe within a computing environment
• To set realistic targets for themselves
• To develop computing outcomes by applying the computing process and practical skills.

Students have the opportunity to participate in regional competitions such as:  EPro8, Aquabots, Robocup Competition, EVolocity and possibly be invited to attend the Programming Challenge for Girls.  We have gained places to enable students to compete at the National Level.

Continuation:  NCEA Level 1 Digital Design Technology

The Financial Literacy course will focus on developing financial skills for students. Financial ideas explored could include:

Goal Setting

Budgeting

Saving

Managing Debt

Investing

Insurance

Retirement Planning

Kiwisaver

Students will gain knowledge of the technology process through planning, designing and understanding a brief.  Through this course students will gain social and cooperative skills through the extension use of group work.  They will build on the practical and organisational skills they gained in Year 9.

Year 10 Food Technology builds on nutritional knowledge gained in Year 9.  The course looks at the food groups and the nutrients that are available in each group.  This knowledge will be beneficial for Year 11.

Students will learn to:

• Investigate food groups and the nutrients that are available in each group
• Broaden knowledge of nutrients that need to be supplied by the diet and their importance
• Demonstrate safe working practices when using equipment and working with food.
• Personal and preparation hygiene practices
• Design and develop a food product

Continuation:  NCEA Level 1 Food Technology and Hospitality

Hard Materials Technology encourages students to participate in a creative process of planning, design and evaluation to fabricate a unique multi-material project. 

Students are also encouraged to develop a set of skills which allow them to successfully use technology equipment

This is a hands-on workshop-based course where students will develop their skills with tools by making things. Each student will make products that they will be able to take home at the end of the course.

Students will learn to:

• Build on basic knowledge, practical and organisational skills gained in Year 9
• Use tools and equipment safely and accurately to produce a high quality outcome
• Carry out a “design and make” task
• Explore their own design ideas to develop a successful product
• Communicate their design ideas with clear annotated drawings
• Measure, mark and cut accurately
• Peer assess
• Set realistic targets for themselves
• Develop products by applying the technological process and practical skills

Music in Year 10 develops every student’s newfound abilities from Year 9 Music. It is the next step for those musicians preparing for Year 11 Music.  Performance is a big aspect of music, with the pupils performing as a soloist and as a member of a group.  Some students may be working on NCEA standards in Year 10.  Please note that pupils are filmed and video footage produced before a live audience, and during class for assessment purposes.  Students can have instrument lessons during school time in piano, guitar, bass and drums. 

Students will learn to:

• Read and write music notation
• Learn chords and how to play them on an instrument
• Learn to write lyrics
• Compose songs in groups based on the chords they have learned
• Learn to play an instrument or sing and perform songs
• Study different genres of music
• Explore New Zealand music

Music Co-curricular Activities:

Smokefree 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 1 Music

Year 10 Performing Arts is a half year course that combines theory and practical work and is especially aimed at increasing the knowledge in dance and drama to ensure those students intending to take levels 1, 2 and 3 will have an excellent grounding in dance and drama as academic subjects.

Units of work will include, but are not limited to 

• Personal and social skills required to work as an ensemble
• Dance Choreography
• Dance elements of Body Awareness, Space, Time, Energy and Relationships
• Drama elements of Role, Action, Time, Tension, Space and Symbol
• Drama techniques of Voice, Body, Movement and Use of Space
• Devised Drama
• Script work

Students are expected to:

• Be taken out of their comfort zone
• Try new things with new people
• Rehearse out of class time
• Perform in front of an audience
• Choreograph and Devise for a performance
• Perform in solo, paired or group performance

Students will take part in a drama and dance performance, and be given the opportunity to devise or choreograph a performance.  Students will also produce a website presenting research they have done on different performances and artists.

To succeed in Year 10 Drama, students must have an interest in Performing Arts, be motivated to achieve excellence, have a good understanding of English and be enthusiastic and creative.

Continuation:  NCEA Level 1 Dance and/or Drama

All students will be videoed for assessment purposes.

Design and Build your own robot from scratch and then program it to perform tasks!

During the first term of this fun and challenging course you will start by learning about electronics and how to use a microcontroller (Arduino) to control lights, motors and speakers.  Then learn how to connect sensors to detect collisions, distances from other objects etc.

In the second term you will design and program your own amazing robot vehicle to compete against others to win the robot that you have built and the title of Young Robotic Engineer of the Year!

Continuation:  NCEA Level 1 Technology Product Design.

Te Ao Haka is an introductory performance-based subject for Year 9/10 students, focusing on Maori culture and haka.  Developed by kapa haka masters, it combines traditional and contemporary elements, teaching whakapapa, history and language through haka.  Students learn cultural pride and responsibility, fostering a positive environment for creative expression and contributing to the art form's growth.

He Taonga te reo

He Taonga te reo 

Did you know that the Māori language is a treasure? If we learn it, speak it and use it on a daily basis, it will be there for the future for Māori and all New Zealanders. 

Year 10 Te Reo Māori is a year-long course with 3 one hour lessons per week. This course is designed to support students to further develop their skills in speaking, reading, writing and listening in Te Reo Māori. All students will be considered for this course. Students who are in the 10 Rumaki class are usually considered for this course. Students in this course may have the opportunity to gain NCEA Level 1 credits and to learn to communicate in Māori about a range of topics including: 

● Ko ngā marae me ngā tikanga ā te Māori (Marae, customs and cultural values)

● Hākinakina, kemu Māori me ngā mahi ā Te Rehia (Sports, Māori games and Māori performing Arts) 

● Ko ngā hākari, tunu kai me ngā hui whakanuia (Feasts, cooking & festivals such as: Matāriki) 

● He whakaaturanga mō te tangata me ngā taonga (Describing people and objects) 

● He kōrero mōu, tō kāinga me ngā mahi ngahau ki a koe (Talking about self, home and hobbies) 

● Toku Ao (The world I live in) 

This course will also include practical elements such as writing recipes and cooking, making kites during Matāriki and learning how to host a pōhiri (Māori welcome). 

Continuation: To enrol in NCEA Level 1 Te Reo Māori, students must have completed Year 10 Te Reo Māori.

This course follows on from the 9REO option programme. You will continue to learn about whanau, Te Kura, Pohiri, Maori pastimes, daily activities, food and much more.

You will also learn online through an Education Perfect Programme.

Continuation: NCEA Level 1 Maori

Year 10 Textile, Fashion & Design Technology focuses on creating with fibre, yarn and fabric and learning skills that will enable students to manipulate various soft materials.

Students will follow a user centred design process to create a product, and begin learning garment construction.

Practical projects e.g. "Designer Cushions", "Pyjamas" and "Leisure Wear".

Students will learn to:

• Build on basic knowledge, practical and organisational skills gained in Year 9
• Work creatively and purposefully  to carry out a design task
• Communicate design ideas with clear annotated drawings
• Explore design ideas and communicate with clear annotated drawings
• Measure, mark and cut accurately
• Use equipment safely, accurately and efficiently to produce a high quality outcome
• Peer assess
• Set realistic targets for themselves
• Develop products by applying the technological process and practical skills

Continuation:  NCEA Level 1 Textiles, Fashion & Design

The Digital Literacy programme is about using practical skills, technical skills, reading and writing skills to research to solve an issue.  Emphasis is on encouraging students to clearly express ideas, and ask relevant questions.  Being a creative communicator and a discerning user are key aspects of the programme.

Vision

Our Senior Pathways Programme (SPP) vision is to empower learners to shape their future pathways through transformative learning experiences and industry connections, meaningful engagement, shared growth (ako), and strong relationships (whanaungatanga).

Description

SPP is a unique programme in the Rotorua region, combining a supportive whānau based learning environment and strong community connections. SPP offers NCEA Level 1 credits, tailored kaiako support, and real world industry opportunities - all of which empower our  students to challenge themselves for their own benefit in learning, wellbeing and future pathways.

What is offered?

• Kaiako who are accessible and provide consistent support
• Work Readiness & Employability Skills (NCEA)
• Resilience and character building outdoor challenges and skill development (NCEA)
• Culturally responsive and inclusive learning environment (NCEA)
• Regular offsite ‘learning beyond the classroom’ experiences
• Wellbeing and physical activity opportunities
• Meaningful community engagement
• Annual camps
• Work experience

Pathways

SPP is recommended for students wanting to have greater industry opportunities during their time in school and for those who want to enhance their employability skills, boost their independence, and have a greater connection to their community. It is a pathway for students wanting to go directly into employment from school or a vocational pathway.

SPP is not available for students wanting to go directly into University studies from secondary school. 

This course is for students who are mathematically confident.

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

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.

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. 

Commerce is about how people and groups use limited resources to produce goods and services to meet unlimited wants and needs. This course looks at decisions at an individual and community level that affects students’ lives and considers issues of sustainability and interdependence of sectors of the economy. 

This course will look at the relationships households have with producers, government and financial institutions, as well as the relationships producers have with the government and trading partners.

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. 

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 learn how the Earth works, explore volcanoes, rivers, Pacific islands, geothermal energy in Iceland and why plants and animals live on different continents . You’ll collect 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 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.

In short, 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

Health at NCEA Level 1 requires students to be able to explore 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 sexuality issues and understanding issues relating to drug use.

NCEA Level 1 Health will offer a minimum of 15 credits.

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

·         the 1981 Springbok Tour

History related careers include:

Heritage Manager                              Historic buildings inspector

Museum exhibitions office                 Archaeologist

Broadcast Journalist                         Civil Service Administrator

Lawyer                                             Researcher

Diplomat

Charlie Oehlrich (First PowerPoint), Logan Windelborn (First Excel) at Regional Microsoft Specialists Championship

Microsoft IT Academy prepares students for industry-recognized certifications.

By earning a Microsoft Certification students will:

• Demonstrate their skills on the latest technologies
• Have a firm measure and increased confidence in their skills
• Achieve a greater degree of success in their pursuit of higher education or a career
• Gain recognition among peers and employers, and a distinct edge in the competitive job market
• Chart a career development path for ongoing Microsoft skills

Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) certification validates mastery of Microsoft Office skills that are valuable demonstrating productivity in a wide range of jobs and other life pursuits. Earning MOS certification proves the ability to use Office applications for on the job needs and provides valuable distinction to help students enter higher education or the workforce. MOS certification is an industry, worldwide recognised qualification. It is an accepted worldwide standard.

All Microsoft Specialists Examination (MOS-Word, MOS-Excel, MOS-PowerPoint) are equivalent to four credits each at NCEA Level 2, that is 12 credits possible overall. Students could gain these 12 credits from gaining the MOS Certificates, plus the ten credits Unit Standards available through NCEA.

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. 

*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 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. 

Please note: Students can only choose ONE Visual Art subject at Level 1(choose from Photography or Paint and Print).

 If students take this course they are able to opt into ANY other art subject in level 2.

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 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:

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 in the outdoors, low rope, navigation and orienteering skills 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 games, 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 16 credits. 

Product Technology involves:

Inventing/developing adapting existing products to create new prototypes to address real needs that exist within our community. Innovation is a key component in most aspects of life and is the foundation of this course.

•Students will identify an opportunity to develop their own individual product.
•They then follow a design process to develop a prototype of it.
•Students will manufacture this in the school’s workshops using a range of technologies such as MIG welding.
•This course involves both academic and practical components.
 •Pathway to trades, tertiary/university courses in Engineering, Design, Technology and Product Development

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, therefore leaves all academic pathways open for future subject selection including working towards University Entrance in future years. 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 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 a Level 1 course for those students who wish to extend and develop their skills in Whakarongo, Kōrero, Pānui, Tuhituhi.

This course will cover topics aligned to the external NCEA Level 1 Te Reo Māori examination. The topics may include: Mihimihi, Whānau, Hui Marae, Kāinga, Hapū, Iwi, Hāpori, Kura, Tākaro/Whakataetae, He Tangata Rongonui, Taiohi. 

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.

This is a university endorsed subject that is designed for those interested in exploring their creative potential through drawing, painting, and digital work. In 2024  this programme will be also including clay and sculpture, with a focus on the local environment. This course includes a trip to the government gardens and around our local thermal areas, this is at the beginning of the year. New skills and techniques will be learned and applied to a set of tasks. Students will be encouraged to develop their own unique style and personality through their work, and to develop confidence in their creative problem solving abilities. The course work is submitted in a portfolio and workbook; these take the place of a formal examination.

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

Please note: Students can only choose ONE Visual Art subject at Level 1(choose from Mixed media and Photography  OR Paint and Print)

Year 12 TRM for Year 11 Students

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.

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

·         the 1981 Springbok Tour

History related careers include:

Heritage Manager                              Historic buildings inspector

Museum exhibitions office                 Archaeologist

Broadcast Journalist                         Civil Service Administrator

Lawyer                                             Researcher

Diplomat

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 course is ideally suited to students intending to follow Business or Commerce courses at University. This course builds on NCEA Level 1, giving students the skills to develop, analyse and interpret Accounting information.

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 capped at a maximum of 20 students.

This  university endorsed course is designed to guide students to develop their creative potential.  Students gain skills and confidence through Fine Arts practices, using a variety of painting, drawing and image making processes and materials.

Emphasis will be on  students own exploration and experimentation, and the tasks are based within the study of professional contemporary artists. Painting assessment units are fun projects that are easy for students to engage in, based around the students’ choice of themes and to suit their style of working.

A range of painting styles will be explored including Expressionism and Realism, Maori Art and Abstraction. Drawing and painting tuition is provided throughout the 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 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. 

Year 12 Childcare 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 

In Year 12 Childcare you will be working towards 18 Level 2 credits for the New Zealand Certificate in Early Childhood Learning & Care. 

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  course is great for those students who are creative and who are interested in the professions of graphic design, industrial design, spatial design, and animation. During this course, students will design their own task to create digital outcomes for a number of design briefs including poster design, logo design, and design for a magazine cover. Students use the latest Adobe industry software, so this course suite those who enjoy working with computers in a creative way.  

Interested in gaming illustration? In this course you can choose to work on art design that could be used in a gaming context. Design environments, and characters using the latest WACOM tablet technology and the Adobe create suite. 

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.

The focus at Level 2 is Macro-economic Concepts. Students use economic models and concepts to analyse causes and effects of the major issues of: growth, unemployment, inflation and trade.

Typically students will complete two internal assessments (unemployment and government policies) worth 10 credits then complete two external topics (inflation and growth) worth 8 credits.

Other standards listed below depend on the students prior learning, current programme of study and future intentions.

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.

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.

Geography & Environmental Studies at Level 2 

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 deforestation, homicide in Chicago 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 (Geographic Information Systems)—fields that help shape the world and make a real impact.

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

Geography related careers include:

Foreign Affairs | Urban and Regional Planning | Environmental Science & Conservation | Landscape Architect | Commerce | Geotechnical Engineer 

The learning in Health at NCEA Level 2 course aims to develop critical thinking skills, interpersonal skills such as communication, advocacy and networking and research skills in the area of health education. 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.

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.

Microsoft IT Academy prepares students for industry-recognized certifications.

By earning a Microsoft Certification students will:

• Demonstrate their skills and knowldge of  the latest technologies
• Have increased confidence in their skills
• Achieve a greater degree of success in their pursuit of higher education or a career
• Gain recognition among peers and employers, and a distinct edge in the competitive job market
• Chart a career development path for ongoing Microsoft skills

Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) certification validates mastery of Microsoft Office skills that are valuable demonstrating productivity in a wide range of jobs and other life pursuits. Earning MOS certification proves the ability to use Office applications for on the job needs and provides valuable distinction to help students enter higher education or the workforce. MOS certification is an industry, worldwide recognized qualification. It is an accepted worldwide standard.

All Microsoft Specialists Examination (MOS-Word, MOS-Excel, MOS-PowerPoint) are equivalent to four credits each at NCEA Level 2, that is 12 credits possible overall. Students could gain these 12 credits from gaining the MOS Certificates, plus the 11 credits Unit Standards available through NCEA.

 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.

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:

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.

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.

The course is project based. You will investigate a real word issue and work closely with a client and stakeholder to develop your ideas into a carefully crafted prototype to evaluate the effectiveness of your proposed design solution.

You will develop skills in time-management, critical thinking, planning, research, communication of design ideas and workshop skills.

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 include the planning & implementation of PE camp, application of biophysical principles, applying social responsibility and creating and completing a training program. 

This course is an achievement standard based course, therefore leaves all academic pathways open for future subject selection ding contributing towards University Entrance at Level 3. 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 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 the largest export earner 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.

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 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. 

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.

Vision

Our Senior Pathways Programme (SPP) vision is to empower learners to shape their future pathways through transformative learning experiences and industry connections, meaningful engagement, shared growth (ako), and strong relationships (whanaungatanga).

Description

SPP is a unique programme in the Rotorua region, combining a supportive whānau based learning environment and strong community connections. SPP offers NCEA Levels 2, tailored kaiako support, and real world industry opportunities - all of which empower our  students to challenge themselves for their own benefit in learning, wellbeing and future pathways.

What is offered?

• Kaiako who are accessible and provide consistent support
• Work Readiness & Employability Skills (NCEA)
• Resilience and character building outdoor challenges and skill development (NCEA)
• Culturally responsive and inclusive learning environment (NCEA)
• Regular offsite ‘learning beyond the classroom’ experiences
• Wellbeing and physical activity opportunities
• Applied Numeracy Skills 
• Applied Literacy Skills
• Meaningful community engagement
• Years 12 : Gateway courses and work placements (NCEA)
• Years 12 : STP industry focused courses through Toi Ohomai (NCEA)

Pathways

SPP is recommended for students wanting to have greater industry opportunities during their time in school and for those who want to enhance their employability skills, boost their independence, and have a greater connection to their community.   It is a pathway for students wanting to go directly into employment from school or a vocational pathway. 

SPP is not available for students wanting to go directly into University studies from secondary school. 

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 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.

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 capped at a maximum of 20 students.

This  university endorsed course is designed to guide students to develop their creative potential.  Students gain skills and confidence through Fine Arts practices, using a variety of painting, drawing and image making processes and materials.

Emphasis will be on  students own exploration and experimentation, and the tasks are based within the study of professional contemporary artists. Painting assessment units are fun projects that are easy for students to engage in, based around the students’ choice of themes and to suit their style of working.

A range of painting styles will be explored including Expressionism and Realism, Maori Art and Abstraction. Drawing and painting tuition is provided throughout the course.  

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.

Geography & Environmental Studies at Level 2 

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 deforestation, homicide in Chicago 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 (Geographic Information Systems)—fields that help shape the world and make a real impact.

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

Geography related careers include:

Foreign Affairs | Urban and Regional Planning | Environmental Science & Conservation | Landscape Architect | Commerce | Geotechnical Engineer 

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

 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. 

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.

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.

This course is ideally suited to students intending to follow Business or Commerce courses at University. This course builds on NCEA Level 2, giving students the skills to develop, analyse and interpret Accounting information 

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, water-based activities, 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.

This course is designed to build on the skills and ideas the students have studied at Level 2 Visual Arts and  will be individually designed to meet the interests and ideas of the students. This course will benefit you if you are contemplating a career in 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, Fashion Design, Architecture or Retail Industries. This course is also designed to cater for the individual student, by focusing on what YOU want to do in further study, or your current interests and passions.  Beginners can be admitted into this course with permission from  HOD Arts Ms Malcolm.

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.

Year 13 Childcare 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 

In Year 13 Childcare you will be working towards level 3 credits for the National Certificate in Early Childhood Education and Care. 

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.

If you are considering studying to work in the Film and Television Industry, Animation, Architecture, Fashion Design or Graphic/Web Design, you will benefit from this course. Students choose a situation to create designs for, and then work their way through logo design, poster design and a lot more; depending on what the particular student wishes to do. Students will create all work for internal assessments using up to date industry software in the Adobe Creative Suite, therefore this course suits those students who enjoy being creative using computers. 

This course is designed to cater to as many students as possible, by focusing on what YOU want to do in further study, or your current interests and passions. Possible collaboration with Media Studies  can be explored for individual students.

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.

The focus at Level 3 is complex Micro-Economics. The key areas of study include efficiency and equity and government intervention. 

All students will complete the two Economics internal assessments (worth 10 credits) and at least one Economics external assessment to gain 14 credits towards university entrance. Other standards listed below depend on the students prior learning, programme of study and future intentions.

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 & Environmental Studies 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 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.

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

Geography related careers include:

Foreign Affairs | Urban & Regional Planning | Environmental Science & Conservation | Landscape Architect | Commerce | Geotechnical Engineer

Health at NCEA Level 3 course is a University Entrance approved subject and complements anyone wishing to enter into social services or healthcare. Students will analyse societal issues and examine their impact on personal, interpersonal and societal wellbeing. Topics include New Zealand health issues, international health issues, health practices in contemporary New Zealand and current ethical issues in New Zealand.

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.

Microsoft IT Academy prepares students for industry-recognized certifications.

By earning a Microsoft Certification students will:

• Demonstrate their skills in the latest technologies
• Have increased confidence in their skills
• Achieve a greater degree of success in their pursuit of higher education or a career
• Gain recognition among peers and employers, and a distinct edge in the competitive job market
• Chart a career development path for ongoing Microsoft skills Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) certification validates mastery of Microsoft Office skills that are valuable demonstrating productivity in a wide range of jobs and other life pursuits. Earning MOS certification proves the ability to use Office applications for on the job needs and provides valuable distinction to help students enter higher education or the workforce. MOS certification is an industry, worldwide recognized qualification. It is an accepted worldwide standard.

All Microsoft Specialists Examination (MOS-Word, MOS-Excel, MOS-PowerPoint) are equivalent to four credits each at NCEA Level 2, that is 11 credits possible overall. Students could gain these 12 credits from gaining the MOS Certificates, plus the ten credits Unit Standards available through NCEA.

Upon gaining the MOS Specialists Certification students will move to MOS-Expert-Master Level which will provide the opportunity to gain an additional 15 credits. Students could gain a Certification as a MOS Expert in Word ,nd MOS-Expert in Excel, MOS Specialists in Access. In gaining all of these they are recognized as a Microsoft Master.

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:

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, 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 including Crankworx and ToughGuyToughGal, 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 does support students ability to endorse with Merit and Excellence at Level 3. It is a University Entrance approved subject and it has a potential 8 credits, which students can use to support their 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 the largest export earner 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 12 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

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 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.

Special Education

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 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.

Geography & Environmental Studies at Level 2 

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 deforestation, homicide in Chicago 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 (Geographic Information Systems)—fields that help shape the world and make a real impact.

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

Geography related careers include:

Foreign Affairs | Urban and Regional Planning | Environmental Science & Conservation | Landscape Architect | Commerce | Geotechnical Engineer 

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. 

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, water-based activities, 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.

Year 13 Childcare 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 

In Year 13 Childcare you will be working towards level 3 credits for the National Certificate in Early Childhood Education and Care. 

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 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. 

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 the largest export earner 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 12 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.