Bream Bay College

This course introduces students to the basics of plant propagation, fostering an understanding of how plants grow and reproduce. The course encourages critical thinking as students explore different techniques like seed germination, cutting, and grafting. Collaboration is key, with students working together on hands-on projects to apply their learning, providing a foundational appreciation of agriculture and horticulture.

This course offers students the opportunity to explore a wide range of themes through drawing, painting, mixed media, sculpture, and printmaking. Students will study both New Zealand and international artist models, learning how to apply these influences in their own work. They will continue to build foundational art-making skills, including observational drawing and colour theory. Assessment is based on four practical units, each focused on developing confidence and creativity across a variety of media.

This course involves freehand drawing, design thinking, model making, 3D computer modelling, and presentation of design ideas. Design and Visual Communication has a clear pathway to University in fields such as Spatial and Architectural Design, Engineering, and Product Design.

Students are introduced to a variety of skills and knowledge across different Digital Technologies and apply them to a personal project. The course encourages collaboration and technical skill development, preparing students for senior Digital Technology courses.

Topics: Coding, 3D Modelling and Printing, Laser Cutting, Game Development, Image Creation and Manipulation, Independent Design Project.

This course provides learners with opportunities to read, write, listen, and speak in English. The course includes four major assessments throughout the year, focusing on these skills. Students will study existing texts and create their own, such as Film Review in Term 1, Personal Writing Texts in Term 2, and creative responses like poems, songs, and letters in Term 3. Reading Logs is an assessment that is administered through the year and awarded marks in Term 4.

In this course, students will explore the science and art of food preparation, focusing on nutrition, safety, and culinary skills. They will learn to create a variety of dishes while understanding the impact of food choices on health and well-being.

This course is designed to develop essential skills for lifelong physical activity and personal growth. Through eight dynamic modules, students will explore various sports and activities that enhance physical fitness, teamwork, cultural understanding, and leadership.

Topics: Body Mechanics Swimming, Adventure Based Learning, Fitness Studies, International Games, Rights and Responsibilities - Hockey, Creating Games, Safety Skills - Gymnastics, Step Up - Rippa Rugby.

This course involves learning practical skills and using tools and machinery to design and create projects in our wood-based workshop.

This course delves into personal and social health, equipping students with tools for informed decision-making as they navigate their teenage years. Topics range from mental health and relationships to personal safety and the impacts of social media. Through interactive lessons and real-world scenarios, students develop critical thinking skills and learn to maintain their well-being in a rapidly changing world.

Topics: Advanced Nutrition & Wellness, Mental Health & Emotional Intelligence, Healthy Relationships & Respect, Digital Wellbeing & Social Media Literacy, Personal Safety & Risk Assessment, Substance Use Awareness, Body Image & Self-Esteem.

This course delves into personal and social health, equipping students with tools for informed decision-making as they navigate their teenage years. Topics range from mental health and relationships to personal safety and the impacts of social media. Through interactive lessons and real-world scenarios, students develop critical thinking skills and learn to maintain their well-being in a rapidly changing world.

Topics: Advanced Nutrition & Wellness, Mental Health & Emotional Intelligence, Healthy Relationships & Respect, Digital Wellbeing & Social Media Literacy, Personal Safety & Risk Assessment, Substance Use Awareness, Body Image & Self-Esteem.

Year 9 Mathematics helps students develop precision in thinking and work, teaching them to recognize patterns, think critically, solve problems, and evaluate the validity of their solutions. Students have the opportunity to participate in Mathex teams and the Otago Maths Competition.

Topics: Geometry, Number, Measurement, Statistics, Algebra, Probability.

This course provides students with the opportunity to explore, create, and perform music in a deeper and more sustained way. With two classes per week, students develop their practical skills, creativity, and understanding of music across a range of styles, traditions, and technologies. Students are encouraged to take instrumental or vocal lessons and to practise regularly at home to support their progress.

Year 9 Pāngarau helps students develop precision in thinking and work, teaching them to recognize patterns, think critically, solve problems, and evaluate the validity of their solutions. Students have the opportunity to participate in Mathex teams and the Otago Maths Competition.

Topics: Geometry, Number, Measurement, Statistics, Algebra, Probability.

This course provides students with the opportunity to explore and develop skills in drama, dance, film making, fringe theatre and production technologies. Students develop their practical skills, creativity, and understanding of a variety of performing arts across a range of styles, traditions, and technologies. Their work is showcased at Te Tuinga (Performing Arts Evening), Show Quest and smaller showcases.

This course is designed to develop essential skills for lifelong physical activity and personal growth. Through eight dynamic modules, students will explore various sports and activities that enhance physical fitness, teamwork, cultural understanding, and leadership.

Topics: Body Mechanics Swimming, Adventure Based Learning, Fitness Studies, International Games, Rights and Responsibilities - Hockey, Creating Games, Safety Skills - Gymnastics, Step Up - Rippa Rugby.

This course introduces students to a variety of topics, laying a strong foundation for further scientific study. Emphasising hands-on learning and scientific inquiry, the course encourages students to think critically and apply their knowledge to real-world situations.

Topics: The Science of Food and Sport, From Particles to Waves, Life's Hidden Networks, Combustion.

This course introduces students to a variety of topics, laying a strong foundation for further scientific study. Emphasising hands-on learning and scientific inquiry, the course encourages students to think critically and apply their knowledge to real-world situations.

Topics: The Science of Food and Sport, From Particles to Waves, Life's Hidden Networks, Combustion.

Social Studies combines knowledge and skills essential for understanding senior subjects like Geography, History, and, to some extent, Commerce. The course covers four key areas: Economic Activity, Sustainability, Culture, and Politics.

Aotearoa NZ's historical and present-day identity is explored through various local and national events and issues that have shaped society. The course prepares students to write, research, study, and understand different perspectives through critical thinking and creativity. Learning outside the classroom is emphasised through visits to places like the Auckland Museum, Kororāreka/Russell, a VR program facilitated by Blake NZ, a visit to NIWA Ruakākā, and native tree planting on local farms.

Students learn technological practice to develop products using soft materials to solve a Design Brief. The practice includes planning practical activities that guide product development and evaluating their work to support decision-making. The course also covers how technology impacts society and the environment.

In this course, students explore Te Reo Māori commonly used to express personal information such as Pēpēhā, Whai kōrero, and mihimihi. They learn about the appropriate structure for speaking on the Marae and the role of Wāhine as Te Reo Tuatahi. Students continue to develop a word bank of commonly used kupu, start to develop knowledge around sentence structure and language conventions, and learn about Tikanga and history related to Mana Whenua.

This course provides learners with opportunities to read, write, listen, and speak in English. The course includes four major assessments throughout the year, focusing on these skills. Students will study existing texts and create their own, such as Film Review in Term 1, Personal Writing Texts in Term 2, and creative responses like poems, songs, and letters in Term 3. Reading Logs is an assessment that is administered through the year and awarded marks in Term 4.

Tikanga - ā - Iwi combines knowledge and skills essential for understanding senior subjects like Geography, History, and, to some extent, Commerce. The course covers four key areas: Economic Activity, Sustainability, Culture, and Politics.

Aotearoa NZ's historical and present-day identity is explored through various local and national events and issues that have shaped society. The course prepares students to write, research, study, and understand different perspectives through critical thinking and creativity. Learning outside the classroom is emphasised through visits to places like the Auckland Museum, Kororāreka/Russell, a VR program facilitated by Blake NZ, a visit to NIWA Ruakākā, and native tree planting on local farms.

Year 10 Agricultural and Horticultural Science expands students' understanding of New Zealand's primary industries through research on various sectors and exploring related career opportunities. The course introduces key plant propagation techniques, encouraging critical thinking and problem-solving. Students learn how to run a small business, gaining insights into the economics of agriculture and horticulture. Collaboration is emphasised, with students working together on projects that apply both practical skills and theoretical knowledge. This course prepares students for further studies and provides a strong foundation for a future in the primary industries.

This course offers students the opportunity to explore a wide range of themes through drawing, painting, mixed media, sculpture, and printmaking. Students will study both New Zealand and international artist models, learning how to apply these influences in their own work. They will continue to build foundational art-making skills, including observational drawing and colour theory. Assessment is based on four practical units, each focused on developing confidence and creativity across a variety of media.

Year 10 Commerce introduces students to the world of business studies, with topics explored in more depth as the course progresses. This course leads into NCEA Level 1 Commerce and NCEA Level 2 and 3 Business Studies. Students are challenged to be creative, collaborative learners, and critical thinkers with a sense of organisation. The course includes aspects of accounting, such as determining a selling price, adding value, and calculating a profit forecast. Marketing strategies are explored, with students developing their own products/services. Additional units cover foreign currencies, the stock market, and budgeting for personal spending and saving.

This course involves building more advanced skills in freehand drawing, design thinking, model making, 3D computer modelling, and presentation of design ideas. Design and Visual Communication has a clear pathway to University in fields such as Spatial and Architectural Design, Engineering, and Product Design.

Through this course students continue to build a variety of skills and knowledge across a range of digital technologies and apply them to a personal project. Students are encouraged to collaborate in learning technical skills, preparing them for senior Digital Technologies courses.

Topics: Python coding, Graphic Design, Image Creation, Green Screen & Video Editing, 3D Modelling & Printing, Laser Cutting, Motion Graphics, Web Design, Computer Science, Animation, Virtual Reality, Game Development, Independent Project.

The course provides learners with opportunities to read, write, listen, and speak using English. Four major assessments are conducted throughout the year, each built around these skills. Learners study existing texts and create their own, such as oral presentations in Term 1, formal written texts in Term 2, and critical reviews in Term 3. A formal examination serves as a summative assessment in Term 4. Students are also enrolled to sit the mandated NZQA co-requisite literacy standards.

Through this course students engage in Food Technology learning that involves designing, creating, and evaluating food products. The course focuses on developing practical skills, understanding nutritional values, and considering the environmental and societal impacts of food production. Students gain hands-on experience in the kitchen, working individually and in teams to complete various culinary tasks.

The Year 10 Hākinakina course develops students' skills for lifelong physical activity through a variety of engaging modules. By participating in diverse activities, students enhance their physical abilities, leadership qualities, and understanding of cultural and social aspects of sports. This course lays a solid foundation for advanced studies in senior Physical Education.

Topics: Surf Safety, Take Control - Touch, Fitness Studies, Attitudes and Values - Basketball, Skill Learning Volleyball, Traditional Maori Games, Social Skills Softball, Movement, Muscle, Madness.

This course teaches practical skills and the use of tools and machinery to design and create projects in a wood-based workshop. Students are expected to create a half-size model and then a small piece of furniture, such as a coffee table. The course leads to Year 11 NCEA Level 1 Hard Materials Technology and Trade Skills.

By studying Mathematics in Year 10, students learn how to be precise in their thinking and work. They identify patterns, think critically, solve problems, and evaluate the reasonableness of their solutions. Opportunities are provided for students to compete in Mathex and the Otago Maths Competition.

Topics: Geometry, Number, Measurement, Statistics, Algebra, Probability.

Year 10 Music course is designed for students who are building on prior musical experience, ideally in their second year of learning an instrument or voice. Students refine their practical skills, creativity, and understanding of music through composition, performance, and contextual studies. Regular home practice and continued instrumental or vocal tuition are strongly encouraged to support their development.

By studying Pāngarau in Year 10, students learn how to be precise in their thinking and work. They identify patterns, think critically, solve problems, and evaluate the reasonableness of their solutions. Opportunities are provided for students to compete in Mathex and the Otago Maths Competition.

Topics: Geometry, Number, Measurement, Statistics, Algebra, Probability.

Students explore primarily dance with the opportunity to do some broader performing arts. Various dance styles and techniques including cultural forms like Pasifika. They research the work of different dance choreographers. They develop creativity and apply choreographic tools, with their work showcased at Te Tuinga (Performing Arts Evening), Show Quest and smaller showcases.

The Year 10 Physical Education course develops students' skills for lifelong physical activity through a variety of engaging modules. By participating in diverse activities, students enhance their physical abilities, leadership qualities, and understanding of cultural and social aspects of sports. This course lays a solid foundation for advanced studies in senior Physical Education.

Topics: Surf Safety, Take Control - Touch, Fitness Studies, Attitudes and Values - Basketball, Skill Learning Volleyball, Traditional Maori Games, Social Skills Softball, Movement, Muscle, Madness.

This course engages students with a range of topics that deepen their understanding of key scientific concepts and their relevance to the modern world. Emphasising hands-on experimentation, problem-solving, and application of scientific knowledge to real-world issues, this course prepares students for future studies in science and beyond.

Topics: Wired for Change, Molecules to Mankind, Medical Science, Scientific Skills.

This course engages students with a range of topics that deepen their understanding of key scientific concepts and their relevance to the modern world. Emphasising hands-on experimentation, problem-solving, and application of scientific knowledge to real-world issues, this course prepares students for future studies in science and beyond.

Topics: Wired for Change, Molecules to Mankind, Medical Science, Scientific Skills.

Social Studies combines essential knowledge and skills that prepare students for senior subjects like Geography, History, and Commerce. This course focuses on four areas: Economic Activity, Sustainability, Culture, and Politics. Aotearoa NZ's historical and present-day identity is taught through local and national events and issues that have shaped society. 

The course equips students to write, research, study, and understand different perspectives through critical thinking and creativity. Learning is enhanced by opportunities outside the classroom, such as visits to Auckland Museum, Kororāreka/Russell, Blake NZ's VR program, NIWA Ruakākā, and native tree planting on local farms.

Students learn in-depth technological practices to develop products using soft materials to solve a design brief. The course includes planning for practice activities that guide development and enable students to evaluate their work, supporting decision-making. Characteristics of technology are studied to understand its impact on society and the environment.

Students explore Te Reo Māori commonly used to express personal information, such as Pēpēhā, Whai kōrero, and mihimihi, and learn about the structure appropriate to speaking on the Marae and the role of Wāhine as Te Reo tuatahi. They develop a word bank of commonly used kupu for everyday conversations and gain knowledge of complex sentence structures and language conventions. The course includes learning about Tikanga and the history of Mana whenua and other iwi around Aotearoa.

The course provides learners with opportunities to read, write, listen, and speak using English. Four major assessments are conducted throughout the year, each built around these skills. Learners study existing texts and create their own, such as oral presentations in Term 1, formal written texts in Term 2, and critical reviews in Term 3. A formal examination serves as a summative assessment in Term 4. Students are also enrolled to sit the mandated NZQA co-requisite literacy standards.

Tikanga - ā - Iwi combines essential knowledge and skills that prepare students for senior subjects like Geography, History, and Commerce. This course focuses on four areas: Economic Activity, Sustainability, Culture, and Politics. Aotearoa NZ's historical and present-day identity is taught through local and national events and issues that have shaped society. 

The course equips students to write, research, study, and understand different perspectives through critical thinking and creativity. Learning is enhanced by opportunities outside the classroom, such as visits to Auckland Museum, Kororāreka/Russell, Blake NZ's VR program, NIWA Ruakākā, and native tree planting on local farms.

Level 1 Agricultural and Horticultural Science provides foundational knowledge of New Zealand's primary industries. The course covers plant and animal biology, soil science, sustainable practices, and economic significance. Students engage in hands-on learning through visits to local businesses, exploring real-world applications and career opportunities.

This course guides students through an extended visual arts project exploring the theme of navigation, with a focus on Aotearoa New Zealand and the Bream Bay area. Students will begin with research tasks, investigating historical and personal stories of migration and exploration. They will create visual responses to their findings, and then develop ideas connected to their own journeys, their whānau, or their whakapapa. A range of art media will be explored, including painting and printmaking. This project offers the opportunity to gain up to 15 NCEA Level 1 Visual Arts credits.

Students study topics centred around four big ideas that connect Commerce with Māori concepts and real-world organisational contexts. These include cultural and financial decision-making, interdependence, and sustainable practices. The course encourages understanding of stakeholder relationships and financial tools, preparing students for NCEA Level 2 Commerce.

The course begins with programming in Python, building on Year 10 learning. Students then undertake a development process to create a digital technology outcome for a client or stakeholder. They have ownership over their projects and time to develop their skills and outcomes.

This Unit Standard programme covers essential soft skills and practical knowledge, including teamwork, communication, self-management, and workplace health and safety. Students also learn to manage their well-being, handle stress, fill out workplace forms, and build strong CVs, preparing them for the job market.

Year 11 English focuses on the study, use, and enjoyment of the English language and its literature, communicated through oral, visual, or written forms. This course is essential for developing literacy skills, supporting students’ success in NCEA Level 1. Students must earn 10 literacy credits by passing the co-requisite exams (32405-Reading, 32403-Writing), which are available from Year 10 onwards. The course includes two internal assessments and two external assessments.

Level 1 Geography covers topics such as global population patterns, volcanic activity, and coastal processes. Students explore issues affecting the Pacific region, like coastal erosion and climate refugees. The course includes four assessments and a field trip for data collection.

In this subject, ākonga (students) develop understanding of current issues related to food, nutrition, and health, and learn how a range of factors influence hauora (wellbeing). This learning helps ākonga develop strategies to strengthen their sense of identity and self-worth, and foster healthy relationships.

Level 1 History provides a foundational understanding of historical events and perspectives, essential for Levels 2 and 3. The course includes four assessments, focusing on significant events such as the 1975 Māori Land March and the Treaty of Versailles. An additional examination assesses students in a new context, requiring analytical skills developed throughout the year.

This course offers ākonga a hands-on, foundational experience in hospitality, with a strong focus on practical kitchen skills, food preparation techniques, and industry-standard practices. It is designed to develop competency in key areas of food handling, presentation, and safety within a commercial kitchen environment.

This course covers all strands of Mathematics, including number, algebra, measurement, geometry, statistics, and probability. It includes two internal and one or two external NCEA assessments. Successful students can advance to Level 2 Statistics or Level 2 Calculus.

This broad Mathematics course supports students in achieving their numeracy co-requisites. It includes three NCEA assessments and a numeracy assessment (CAA). Students who attain 15 Level 1 credits in Mathematics can progress to Level 2 Statistics.

This course allows ākonga to explore and express their cultural identities through creative and collaborative music-making. Students build confidence as artists while developing skills in performance, composition, aural skills, and understanding music in context. Regular instrumental or vocal lessons and home practice are expected in order to be successful.

Level 1 Performing Arts focuses  primarily on dance with the opportunity to do some broader performing arts (drama, lighting)..  Students research various dance styles and choreograph movement phrases based on stimuli such as NZ artists, tūrangawaewae, or the local environment. Students will develop their performance skills and create dances and possibly dramas that are showcased at Te Tuinga (Performing Arts Evening), Show Quest and smaller showcases.

This course offers an in-depth exploration of movement, strategies, and cultural influences in physical activities. Students develop practical skills, strategic thinking, and cultural awareness through four key standards. The course prepares students for advanced Physical Education studies.

Science explores the natural world through observation, experimentation, and analysis across disciplines like biology, chemistry, physics, and earth sciences. This course fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills, preparing students for future studies and careers in scientific fields. It also addresses global challenges such as climate change and healthcare.

This course explores four big ideas that enhance and complement our connection to Mana Whenua. NCEA Level 1 Te Reo Māori supports pathways through to Levels 2 and 3, focusing on language accuracy, fluency, cultural integrity, and language vitality.

This course involves working with different materials to develop a brief and outcome. Students apply skills from research and development to design and construct their projects, which are self-funded. The course includes literacy credits and a digital portfolio component.

This Unit Standard course leads into apprenticeships in various trades. Students learn about safety, materials, joinery, construction, and make carpentry projects. The course includes written work and follows the BCATS programme, leading into the Level 2 Trade Academy.

Level 2 Agricultural and Horticultural Science builds on the foundational course, offering a deeper exploration of New Zealand's primary industries. The course emphasises practical skills and techniques in horticulture, including plant propagation, pest and disease management, and crop production. Delivered through Unit Standards, the course blends theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience, preparing students for real-world applications and further studies in agriculture or horticulture.

This course involves students in an extended design project, based on the theme Empowering Endangered Animals. Students research conservation issues and develop visual communication strategies to raise awareness or promote action. They produce design outcomes such as logos, infographics, posters, and promotional material for a fictional organisation or campaign.

Students learn and apply digital media skills using tools such as Photoshop and Sketchbook on school-provided devices. While students may benefit from using their own digital devices, it is not required — school tablets and computers are available for all design work. The course is designed to support learners at all levels, and no prior experience is necessary.

Please note: While students who enjoy Art are often tempted to take two Visual Art subjects at Level 2, this option is only available to those with an attendance rate of 85% or higher, a Merit or Excellence average in Year 11 Art, and/or a clear intention to pursue Art at tertiary level, due to the large workload and time commitment required.

This course builds on Level 1 skills, guiding students to explore the theme “Ko Wai Au?” (“Who am I?”) through drawing, painting, and mixed media. Students investigate artists to inspire their own work and develop a personal painting style that reflects their identity, ideas, and experiences. They learn how to plan and refine compositions, apply painting conventions, and use colour, layering, and symbolism effectively. Written work includes artist research and brief reflections on their own process. The year’s work is presented as a cohesive, portfolio-based body of art.

Please note: While students who enjoy Art are often tempted to take two Visual Art subjects at Level 2, this option is only available to those with an attendance rate of 85% or higher, a Merit or Excellence endorsement in Year 11 Art, and/or a clear intention to pursue Art at tertiary level, due to the large workload and time commitment required.

This course allows students to explore topics such as ecology, genetics, and gene expression. They study cell structure and processes, gaining skills to analyse the increasing complexity of biological information. Practical investigations are also a key component. This course is essential preparation for the Level 3 Biology course.

This course encourages creativity as students set up their own business ideas. Some students will do this through the Young Enterprise Scheme (YES). Students conduct market research and develop a real business plan for a new product. They learn marketing techniques and test their ideas in local and regional markets. The course offers 16 NCEA credits, with numeracy credits also available. Students are required to test and sell their product at a minimum of three local and regional markets/events, which may include weekend commitments.

This course covers topics such as bonding and structure of substances, equilibrium principles, acids and bases, redox reactions, and organic chemistry. Students learn analytical techniques to determine the concentration of substances in consumer products. This course is a prerequisite for Level 3 Chemistry and most Science courses at university.

This course guides learners through the process that a developer follows when creating a digital technologies outcome for a stakeholder group or client. Students have autonomy in choosing the type of outcome they want to create and receive ample time to learn how to produce it. During Terms 1 & 2, students conduct an inquiry, create a design, and acquire the necessary skills to develop an advanced outcome. Term 3 is dedicated to creating the outcome, followed by the completion of an externally marked report in Term 4.

This program focuses on essential soft skills and practical knowledge, including teamwork, communication, and self-management. Students learn to manage their well-being, handle stress, and manage time effectively. The course also covers practical skills such as filling out workplace forms, navigating job searches, and understanding legal rights and responsibilities. Additionally, students gain knowledge of workplace health and safety, managing personal presentations, and building a strong CV. This comprehensive approach ensures that students are well-prepared to enter and succeed in the job market.

Year 12 English focuses on the study, use, and enjoyment of the English language and its literature. This is communicated through oral, visual, or written forms, covering a wide range of purposes and audiences. Year 12 English is crucial for developing literacy skills, supporting ongoing academic success. To achieve NCEA Level 2, students must earn 10 literacy credits by passing the co-requisite exams (32405 - Reading, 32403 - Writing), which are offered twice a year from Year 10 onwards. The course also places significant emphasis on connecting texts to real-world contexts. The Year 12 English course offers 18 credits, with two internal assessments and two formal examinations during the NCEA exam period to secure external credits and subject endorsements.

In Level 2 Geography, students study a range of contexts, including the global pattern of maritime piracy, murders in Chicago, the history of segregation, and vegetation patterns in the Tongariro Volcanic Centre. Students are offered a total of 19 credits, with three internal assessments and two external assessments. A field trip to the Tongariro Volcanic Centre (TBC) or a local area for data collection is included.

In Level 2 History, students engage in in-depth analysis of historical contexts, requiring an empathetic and mature approach. Topics include Nazi persecution and Hitler’s rise to power, the Salem Witch Trials, the Tohunga Suppression Act, and an historical conspiracy theory or contentious topic of their choice. The course offers a minimum of 19 credits, with strong literacy capabilities required due to the content-heavy nature of the subject.

During this Unit Standard course students work at a higher level, with greater accuracy and refinement in their cooking. The course covers different cooking methods, knife skills, and food hygiene, leading to a ServiceIQ Cookery Certificate. This qualification is valuable for students seeking part-time or full-time employment in the hospitality industry.

This course builds on the Mathematics and Algebra skills acquired in Level 1 Mathematics. It is recommended for students interested in deepening their knowledge of Mathematics, particularly those planning to study physics, engineering, or architecture at the tertiary level. This course leads to Level 3 Calculus or Level 3 Statistics. Students may take both Level 2 Statistics and Level 2 Calculus as separate subjects in Year 12.

This broad Mathematics course supports students in achieving their numeracy co-requisites. It includes 4 NCEA assessments. This course will allow student to gain their Numeracy credits if they did not pass it prior to Level 2.

This course combines elements of Statistics and Mathematics. Students learn to analyse data and incorporate it into written statistical reports. Probability concepts are expanded upon, equipping students for Year 13 Statistics. This course leads to Level 3 Statistics. Students may take both Level 2 Statistics and Level 2 Calculus as separate subjects in Year 12.

Level 2 Music supports students to develop their unique musical voice through personalised programmes that reflect their interests and strengths. Students extend their creative and technical abilities while engaging with music in everyday life. Ongoing lessons and regular practice are expected at this level.

This course prepares students for careers requiring leadership, practical life skills, and the ability to navigate challenging environments. It provides hands-on experiences that develop skills in risk management, teamwork, and outdoor survival. The course is ideal for students interested in outdoor education, environmental management, or adventure tourism.

Level 2 Performing Arts students explore primarily dance with the opportunity to do some broader performing arts (drama, lighting). Students think critically when choreographing new movements and dance phrases, both solo and in groups. They have the freedom to create dances based on their interests and topics of choice. The course includes participation in cultural dances,and opportunities to engage in workshops with visiting dance companies. Written components are also included. Students have the opportunity to help lead Show Quest as well as perform at Te Tuinga and other showcases.

This course delves into sports science, performance, and social responsibility through various Achievement Standards. Topics include physiology, biomechanics, sports psychology, risk management, and more. The course provides a solid foundation for further studies and practical experiences in Physical Education.

This course explores mechanics, electricity, and waves. Students develop analytical skills and learn to create mathematical models for real-life applications. Practical investigations are also included. This course is a prerequisite for Level 3 Physics and most Engineering courses at university. It is also recommended for students interested in studying medicine.

Students learn about the different approaches to Psychology and ways to explain human behaviour, why people behave the way they do.  It includes topics like personality types, psychological disorders, how the brain works and theories to explain behaviours. Students learn how to design and conduct psychological research, and develop critical evaluation skills that can be applied in many areas of life and future study. It is an academic subject and UE approved at level 3.

Te Ao Haka is founded on mātauranga tuku iho (traditional knowledge), Te Ao Haka is also progressive, embracing the development and evolution of the art form in contemporary contexts. Ākonga will explore elements such as mōteatea, waiata-ā-ringa, haka, poi, and whakawātea, developing performance skills alongside knowledge of tikanga and pūrakau that underpin these practices. This course nurtures leadership, confidence, and identity, and supports students to strengthen their reo Māori through kaupapa Māori contexts, preparing them for further study in Māori performing arts, Te Reo Māori, and related pathways.

Achievement Standard Course

This course develops students' ability to communicate in te reo Māori with some independence and confidence in various contexts, including whānau, marae, and social or workplace environments. The course offers an intermediate level of Māori language, accommodating students who have completed Level 1. The focus is on oral and written Māori, with assessments in Whakarongo, Kōrero, Waihanga Tuhinga, and preparation for external exams.

Unit Standard Course

This course offers a deeper exploration of Tikanga Māori within a Te Ao Māori framework, delivered in English with elements of te reo Māori integrated. Students explore Ngā kupu taka, Ngā kupu kaupapa, and ngā kōrero uiui o ngā kaiuiuinga, gaining a broader understanding of Māori cultural practices.

Level 2 Multi Materials Technology is a design-based, university-approved course where students independently respond to a given context to develop their own brief and outcome. Students apply skills and knowledge from trialling, testing, research, and development to design and construct their outcomes. Projects are self-funded, and students are expected to demonstrate independent thinking and good self-management skills. The course includes literacy credits and a digital portfolio component.

Tourism at Bream Bay College aims to provide students with the skills and knowledge they need to find the job of their dreams in the tourism industry. It is designed to support the NCEA level 3 course (offered in 2026) and to complement the tertiary course at level 4 provided by International Travel College (ITC). The course caters for students who want to work in the tourism industry without having to go to university. Therefore, the course consists of a minimum of 18 and a maximum of 21 NCEA Unit Standards credits. Topics covered include world destinations, New Zealand as a destination, tourism-related numeracy skills, and the characteristics and work roles within the industry.

This Unit Standard course leads to an apprenticeship and further study in the Building and Construction Industry, sponsored through the Te Tai Tokerau Trade Academy and following the BCATS Programme. Students are encouraged to participate in a work placement one day per week. The course covers safety, hand tools, power tools, and includes the creation of two outdoor furniture projects. Additionally, students complete various short courses to gain credits and prepare for successful entry into the workforce.

This course requires students to commit to a Gateway work experience placement, catering to both Year 12 and Year 13 students with multi-level standards available. Students must identify a career pathway they wish to explore, developing a targeted resume and engaging in work experience. 

The course includes industry-specific standards and requires self-motivation and independence, with all units completed online (Students must have a chromebook or laptop to complete the units). Additional courses related to Health and Safety or specific careers may also be completed, funded by the Gateway programme. STAR funding is also available for short courses aligned with students' career interests.

Level 3 Agricultural and Horticultural Science offers advanced learning for students passionate about New Zealand's primary industries. The course covers advanced practical horticulture skills, including plant propagation, soil science, and crop management. Students also study animal anatomy and physiology, gaining a thorough understanding of agricultural productivity. Delivered through Unit Standards, the course emphasises hands-on learning, preparing students for direct entry into the workforce or further studies in agriculture, horticulture, or related sciences.

In Level 3 Design, students work on a self-directed design brief tailored to their interests and career goals — whether branding, social awareness campaigns, or product promotion. They develop visual solutions across a range of media including logo design, packaging, posters, and web or app layouts.

Students use digital tools such as Photoshop, Illustrator, and other relevant apps to create a portfolio that demonstrates creative thinking, technical skill, and clear communication of ideas. While students may benefit from using their own digital devices, it is not required — school tablets and computers are available for all design work. Research and written justification are required as part of the design process.

This course challenges students to explore more advanced painting methods through the theme “Myths and Legends”, using Surrealism and symbolic imagery to spark imagination and personal expression. Students will develop a series of drawings and paintings that extend their technical and conceptual skills.

They will research historical and contemporary artists, experiment with techniques, and produce a cohesive portfolio of work that reflects their individual ideas and style. A significant amount of written analysis and reflection is expected at this level.

This course allows students to explore topics such as ecology, speciation, and human evolution in depth. Students study the responses of plants and animals to their external environment and their adaptations that contribute to gene pool changes. This knowledge helps students understand patterns and processes of evolution, leading to speciation and providing confident knowledge of biological evolution, which is crucial for understanding trends in human evolution. Level 3 Biology is highly relevant for students intending to pursue tertiary studies in nursing, medicine, veterinary science, or similar fields.

This course runs parallel with the Level 2 course, covering similar topics and contexts but requiring more detail and depth in economic and marketing tools. Students have the opportunity to be creative and set up their own business ideas, partnering with the Young Enterprise Scheme (YES), which provides access to up-to-date resources and connections with Business Studies students across Northland. The YES program offers networking opportunities with like-minded students and professionals from the New Zealand business world. Internally, students are assessed on market research and implementing a real business plan for a new product, learning various marketing techniques and testing their ideas through local and regional markets. Externally, students examine external factors influencing business viability in New Zealand and globally. Students can earn a minimum of 15 and a maximum of 19 NCEA credits, with the possibility of gaining numeracy credits. Students are expected to test and sell their products at a minimum of three local and regional markets or events, which may require weekend availability.

Calculus is designed for students with strong Algebra skills, focusing on using Mathematics to solve problems. The course models real-life situations using trigonometry, real and complex numbers, functions and their graphs, and applies the power of calculus to solve a wide range of everyday problems involving change. Calculus is also recommended for students pursuing tertiary studies in engineering, architecture, mathematics, computer science, surveying, finance, and business. Note: Students may take both Level 3 Statistics and Level 3 Calculus as separate subjects in Year 13.

This course broadens students' knowledge of trends in the periodic table of elements, deepens their understanding of inter- and intramolecular bonds, and enhances their knowledge of organic compounds, their preparation, and identification. Students will explore the applications of redox reactions in daily life and conduct investigations to determine trends in substance concentrations, culminating in a written report. The skills acquired in Level 3 Chemistry are essential for students intending to study Chemistry, Health Science, and Engineering and beneficial for those pursuing Biological and Physics Degrees.

In this course, students undertake a process similar to that of a professional developer, creating a complex outcome for a stakeholder or client. The course builds on Level 2 skills, requiring students to conduct a critical inquiry, develop a design, and create a final product. The course concludes with an externally examined report in Term 4.

Year 13 English involves the study, use, and enjoyment of the English language and its literature, communicated through oral, visual, or written forms. The course covers a wide range of purposes and audiences, utilising various text forms. As an essential subject, it supports students' development as mature learners, preparing them for tertiary studies. To achieve NCEA Level 3, students must earn 10 literacy credits by passing the co-requisite exams (32405-Reading, 32403-Writing), which are available twice a year from Year 10 onwards. The Year 13 English course offers 18 credits contributing to the overall NCEA program, including three internal assessments and one formal examination during the NCEA exam period for external credits and subject endorsements. Significant attention is given to connecting the text to real-world contexts at this level.

Level 3 Geography is a University-approved subject that prepares students for further tertiary study. The course covers a range of contexts, including the Muriwai Coastal Environment, the global pattern of maritime piracy, human trafficking, and a local river study, with field trips to Muriwai Beach and a local awa for data collection. Students will complete three internal assessments and two external assessments during the end-of-year examination.

Field Trip: Two one-day field trips—local river data collection and Muriwai Beach, Auckland.

This University approved course focuses on developing and promoting an individual historical voice using academic evidence. The contexts align with Year 12 as this course is often run in conjunction with it, depending on numbers. While the context may be similar, tasks differ slightly to ensure students are working at the appropriate curriculum level.

Level 3 Music offers students the opportunity to refine their musical skills and deepen their artistic identity through individualised learning. Students are encouraged to perform, compose, and share their music within and beyond the classroom. Ongoing lessons and regular practice are expected at this level.

In this course students explore primarily dance with the opportunity to do some broader performing arts (drama, lighting).  It further develops students' knowledge and application of dance concepts and theories. Students will complete a dance production in Show Quest with  focus on choreography and production technologies, participate in dance repertoires or cultural dance, and engage in group choreography tasks. Level 3 Performing Arts -Dance is designed for critical thinkers and explorers of movement who wish to extend their thinking and creative flow.

Note: This course includes written components.

This course offers a dynamic exploration of advanced topics in sports science, performance, and leadership. Through five comprehensive Achievement Standards, students will delve into strategies for lifelong well-being, performance evaluation, and contemporary leadership principles. This course provides an in-depth understanding of physical activities, trends, and the role of leadership, preparing students for future academic and professional pursuits in Physical Education.

This course broadens students' knowledge of motion, electromagnetism, and wave properties. Students will explore the theory of solar and nuclear energy, linking them to socio-scientific impacts on the environment. Using analytical techniques acquired in Level 2, students will conduct investigations to determine linear relationships between variables. The skills acquired in Level 3 Physics are essential for students intending to study Physics, Research Analysis, and Engineering and beneficial for those pursuing Medicine.

Students learn about the different approaches to Psychology and ways to explain human behaviour, why people behave the way they do.  It includes topics like personality types, psychological disorders, how the brain works and theories to explain behaviours. Students learn how to design and conduct psychological research, and develop critical evaluation skills that can be applied in many areas of life and future study. It is an academic subject and UE approved at level 3.

Year 13 Statistics is an in-depth exploration of Statistics and Probability. The course includes two external examinations on Probability Concepts and Probability Distributions, as well as internal assessments requiring students to write statistical reports and gain an understanding of optimization. 

Note: Students may take both Level 3 Statistics and Level 3 Calculus as separate subjects in Year 13.

Te Ao Haka is founded on mātauranga tuku iho (traditional knowledge), Te Ao Haka is also progressive, embracing the development and evolution of the art form in contemporary contexts. Ākonga will explore elements such as mōteatea, waiata-ā-ringa, haka, poi, and whakawātea, developing performance skills alongside knowledge of tikanga and pūrakau that underpin these practices. This course nurtures leadership, confidence, and identity, and supports students to strengthen their reo Māori through kaupapa Māori contexts, preparing them for further study in Māori performing arts, Te Reo Māori, and related pathways.

This intermediate-level course is designed for students who have completed Te Reo Māori at Level 1, aiming to build independence and confidence in using the language across various contexts such as whānau, marae, social, workplace, and academic settings. The course deepens students' understanding of Te Reo Māori, with a strong emphasis on both oral and written communication.

Level 3 Multi Materials Technology is a university-approved, design-based course where students independently respond to a given context, developing their own brief and outcome to meet specific needs. Students will apply skills and knowledge from trialling, testing, research, and development to design and construct their projects. These projects are self-funded, requiring independent thinking and strong self-management skills. The course includes a digital portfolio component, with several Achievement Standards carrying literacy credits.

Tourism at Bream Bay College aims to provide students with the skills and knowledge they need to find the job of their dreams in the tourism industry. It is designed to support the NCEA level 3 course (offered in 2026) and to complement the tertiary course at level 4 provided by ITC (International Travel College). The course should cater for students who are considering taking a combination of vocational pathways and who want to work in the tourism industry without having to go to university. Therefore, the course consists of a minimum of 18 and a maximum of 21 NCEA Unit Standards credits. Topics covered include knowledge of world tourism destinations, the South Pacific as a destination and the socio-economic impacts of tourism in the country of destination.

This Unit Standard course is ideal for students aiming to enter the workforce with practical construction skills, leading to apprenticeships and further study in the Building and Construction Industry. Students will have some choice in their projects, improving both their technical and communication skills. The course focuses on carpentry, following the BCATS (Building, Construction, and Allied Trades Industry Training Organisation) programme.

This course requires students to commit to a Gateway work experience placement, catering to both Year 12 and Year 13 students with multi-level standards available. Students must identify a career pathway they wish to explore, developing a targeted resume and engaging in work experience. 

The course includes industry-specific standards and requires self-motivation and independence, with all units completed online (Students must have a chromebook or laptop to complete the units). Additional courses related to Health and Safety or specific careers may also be completed, funded by the Gateway programme. STAR funding is also available for short courses aligned with students' career interests.