Wellington East Girls’ College

This Health and Physical Education course provides opportunities for students to learn in, through and about movement to enhance their personal health and physical capabilities. Focus is placed on understanding the importance of the Te Whare Tapa Whā model of Hauora in supporting their own wellbeing, the wellbeing of others, and the wider community. Students will learn to use communication skills effectively to manage influences, changes and pressure situations and devise strategies to support their wellbeing. These skills are taught through a range of contexts including sexuality and relationships, drug use and mental health.

This introductory science course develops students’ understanding of what science is and how scientists work. Contexts for learning are Forensic science and sustainable design (Eco Homes). Students will be introduced to working safely in the laboratory and investigating scientifically. 

This course will investigate the impacts of colonisation and Maori responses to it. Students will focus on The New Zealand Wars and Maori resistance to colonialism over time, with specific attention paid to local conflicts.

Can athletes continue to break world records? How can we use this understanding to improve our own sporting performance? This course will look at concepts relating to genetics, mechanics and body systems as well as how scientists investigate our sporting performance. Students will reflect on the role training, technology and sports psychology plays in sports performance.

This course is designed for beginner learners, whether you have enjoyed Year 9 Chinese class or you have not formally engaged in Chinese learning before. In this course, students will develop essential communication skills in Mandarin Chinese. Students will have a great opportunity to discover Chinese history, food, traditional practices, art, and gain a better understanding of one of the richest cultures in the world. By the end of the course, students will be offered an opportunity to sit the International Chinese Proficiency Test (HSK), which will prepare them for the requirements of NCEA Level 1 Chinese.

This course is open to any Year 10 students who are interested in singing in a group. Students will learn vocal technique, group performance practice, music theory, and perform as a choir at The Big Sing Wellington Regional Festival. Students in this class are encouraged to be a part of a co-curricular music group, especially a choir. This course is a great feeder class for any students who may wish to be a part of Rāwhiti in years 11-13.

This is a fun and creative course. No prior experience needed, just enthusiasm and willingness to give things a go. We begin with active games and go on to explore different theatre and dance styles, incorporating costumes, props, lighting and stage make-up in our performances. At times you will work in small groups to create and perform original work about issues that interest you and at other times you will work from a script. We have expert tutors who come in to teach us specialist skills and perform for us. You will go on class trips to see theatre and dance. The balance between dance and drama learning will depend on the interests of the students and we will often combine the two to meet everyone's learning preferences. Past students have shared that this course has significantly improved their confidence through stronger presentation and people skills. If you enjoy a practical and interactive approach to learning this course is for you.

In Design and Make Technology students will learn about how design impacts everyday lives. In this course we imagine, design, draw, create and make. Students will use the design room and workshop spaces to make and model Architecture and Product Design projects. They will learn about the Design Process, freehand sketching, technical drawing and digital based design skills along with making and construction processes. This course incorporates skills in Materials Technology, Design and Visual Communication, and Digital Technologies.  The first project is based on Spatial design : Interior Design project (drawing your design and model making). The second project focuses on product design: students will design a drinking container. Students will also be introduced to the SketchUp software.

The Year 10 Digital Technologies course introduces students to the Python programming language and to animation. Students will develop key skills in programming and animation while using computational thinking to explore core computer science principles. They will learn the fundamentals of Python and gain an understanding of how to write simple programs. In addition, students will learn how to design and create animations using Adobe Animate. Throughout the course, they will design and develop digital outcomes, focusing on creating quality, fit-for-purpose digital solutions.

This course involves extended exploration of the history and ecosystems of our local area. We will use both Science and māturanga Māori along with Te Ao Tangata skills to investigate the biological health of Matairangi. We'll consider how all of these lenses are needed to take effective environmental action for our local area and to combat climate change. We will also look at how people have responded locally and internationally as they work towards environmental justice and then take action ourselves. This course will involve getting your feet wet, your hands dirty and taking a stand for Papatūānuku. Students should take this course as well as Year 10 Science Intensive. In this course students will:

• Learn about the fundamentals of ecology and how introduced predators cause ecosystem imbalance, supported by a trip to Zealandia and regular walks in the ngahere around our school and up Matairangi.
• Learn about climate change science, the causes, impacts and solutions including laboratory experiments to model the causes and effects of climate change. 
• Plan and carry out a student led environmental action project.

This English course is for all students to enjoy learning about texts and language while developing essential literacy, communication and critical thinking skills. You will study a range of texts such as novels, short stories, plays and films including literature from Aotearoa. You will become increasingly skilled in written, visual and oral language. Activities will include formal and creative writing, making films and speeches, and involve working both individually and collaboratively in a group. You will also learn to express your ideas and identity with confidence as you develop the skills necessary for the senior school.

The Year 10 Food Technology - Hangarau Kai course combines practical and theory lessons in a food context. Students will explore ideas through the Technology Design Process and learn the skills needed to make a food based project. Students will work with stakeholders to produce creative food based outcomes. This course incorporates skills in Digital Technologies, Processing Technology, and Design and Visual Communications.

In Year 10 French, you’ll take your language skills to the next level as you learn to talk about your school life, your hometown, and your holiday plans. You’ll build on what you learned in Year 9, expanding your vocabulary and becoming more confident in expressing your ideas in French. This course helps you develop your speaking, listening, reading, and writing through real-world topics and practical language use. You’ll learn how to give opinions, describe places, talk about past and future events, and ask and answer questions.

French culture remains a big part of the course—through music, videos, food, and celebrations. You’ll continue using French actively in the classroom, working with others in fun, interactive activities that make learning meaningful and enjoyable.

Samoan is, for tens of thousands of New Zealanders, a language of family, faith, commerce and culture. The value of learning the Samoan language is significant for our community. In this course, students will further explore and discover the rich Sāmoan culture, and develop communication skills. A focus on using Sāmoan in the classroom encourages students to gain confidence in speaking the language. Students who wish to take this course should have some basic knowledge of the Samoan language. 

This course is aimed at providing students with extra literacy and numeracy skills required for success in all areas of the curriculum, as well as in daily life. The class is of a small size so that teaching and learning can be focused at the student's next learning steps. Students will still take Maths and English. 

• The Mathematics learning introduces concepts that will be taught in core classes and gives time for practising fundamental numeracy skills. 
• Learning in English will boost their writing and reading, as well as learning techniques to support them to understand written text in other curriculum areas. There is a particular focus on structured literacy as well as approaches and attitudes which support learning.

The Year 10 Materials Technology course builds on students’ design and sewing skills using fabric and mixed materials. Students will follow the Technology Design Process and work with a stakeholder who provides feedback to help develop their designs. Throughout the course, students will complete two projects: designing and constructing a wearable arts outfit for a competition, and sewing a pair of pyjama pants with an applied design such as embroidery or vinyl. Students will continue to develop their ability to plan, problem-solve, and produce outcomes that are both creative and practical.

Mathematics helps us understand the world and provides an effective way of building mental strategies. Maths encourages logical reasoning, critical thinking, creative thinking, abstract or spatial thinking, problem-solving ability, and even effective communication skills. Our vision at WEGC is that Mathematics is challenging, engaging and important. The Year 10 Maths course will build on mathematical skills learnt from previous years, and start preparing you for senior levels of study. 

This is a compulsory full year mathematics course that every Year 10 student must take. The course includes preparation for the Numeracy CAA (Common Assessment Activity).

Students complete units in Solo and Group Performance, Composition, Listening Skills, Theory, History and Music Analysis. Previous musical knowledge is extremely helpful, but not essential, and students must be open to studying music of all styles. It is strongly encouraged for Year 10 Music students to be learning an instrument - which can be supported by the itinerant instrument programme - and they must take part in an extra-curricular music group. Students are also expected to attend public concerts (outside school) when tickets are offered at a substantially discounted rate. This course is structured as a stepping stone to Year 11 Music. 

Music Practical/Performance

By learning in, through and about movement, students gain a more in-depth understanding of factors that influence physical activity and develop positive attitudes towards regular participation. Focus is placed on students taking action to promote and support their own hauora, and the wellbeing of others. Students will continue to build on their knowledge and understanding of current health issues including alcohol and drugs, mental health and healthy relationships whilst also enhancing their problem-solving and critical thinking skills.

This course takes a close look at how governments impact the lives of the people they govern, and compares different types of rule from the past and the present. You will examine the impacts of democracy, fascism and communism by studying the government systems of modern New Zealand, Nazi Germany, and Communist Russia and China.  

Ākonga will learn about relationships as well as gender, sex and sexualities. They will discuss social and emotional learning and look at how young people can come to understand the physical and social contexts of gender, bodies, and sexuality. This will enable ākonga to enhance their interpersonal relationships, now and in the future. The formation of young people’s sexual and gender identities is viewed as an ongoing lifelong process.

This course builds on the big ideas in Year 9 Science that help us to explain how the natural, physical world and wider universe operates and how science works as a knowledge generating system and a body of knowledge itself. Students will work in the contexts of  Rocket Science and Science in the Media to explore relevant, science based issues. Students will: 

• Combine their knowledge of the scientific concepts they learn about (energy, forces, chemistry of combustion, and states of matter), and connect this understanding to the various rockets we build and launch in class.
• Demonstrate their ability to identify and critique the use of science ideas in published information. Many publications present information as ‘science’ without verifying their sources. They can make claims based on partial information, misinformation, and disinformation. Students will use their science literacy skills to examine data and the use of scientific vocabulary, graphics, and conventions in publications. They will also need to think critically about sources of information and the influences on authors in the way that they represent ideas in their writing.

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ShowQuest is a performing arts festival where students perform multi-disciplinary theatre pieces that tell a story through dance, drama, music and technology. ShowQuest is based on Stage Challenge and is run by the creators of Rock Quest and Pasifika Beats. At WEGC, the ShowQuest class is open to all Year 10 students and those who have prior knowledge in any performing arts disciplines will have the chance to take on a leadership role within this class. The class will perform their student lead theatre piece at The Michael Fowler Centre or The St James Theatre in June. This is a practical, performance based class that offers all students the chance to develop their performing arts skills further and perform at one of the top venues in Wellington.

The learning in this course will involve learning the Kapa Haka bracket to be able to perform. There is also the opportunity for those wishing to lead behind the scene in Kākahu design, hair and makeup, moko application, music and logistics. In Years 11, 12, and 13 students will have the opportunity to take Senior Te Ao Haka  to be able to continue this course.

In 2025 our Kapa Haka rōpū will competed in the Wellington Regional Kapa Haka competition. In 2026 the rōpū will continue to perform and prepare for the next regional competition in 2027.

Students will work to increase and strengthen their language skills in Te Reo Māori, to also build their confidence in speaking basic Reo and normalising te reo within their learning. Formal Assessment and learning objectives are focused on Reading & Listening Comprehension, Formal Speeches and Writing in Te Reo Māori. The Students are encouraged to participate in Pōwhiri and Marae protocol activities, Waka Ama Sports and Rāwhiti-Kapa Haka to improve their understanding of Tikanga Māori (Cultural Customs).

This course will be taught to a small group of ākonga from years 9 -10. Ākonga will spend time together exploring the beauty and power of Māori art. Investigations into customary processes will inform the production of personal and collaborative artworks.

This Year 10 Art programme is a creative course that supports students to explore and develop practical skills in drawing, painting, sculpture, and printmaking. Playful approaches to problem-solving are encouraged while students investigate and build on their understanding of established art practice. This course prepares students for Year 11 Visual Art.

In this course, students will learn what robots are, how they're currently used, and how they might shape the world in the future. Students will build robots and program them to perform a variety of tasks using computer programmes. Students will develop skills in computational thinking, algorithms, computer programming and scientific investigation. They will apply their skills to complete  STEM/robotics based projects.

The learning in this course will involve learning the Kapa Haka bracket to be able to perform. There is also the opportunity for those wishing to lead behind the scene in Kākahu design, hair and makeup, moko application, music and logistics. In yr 11, 12, and 13 students will have the opportunity to take Senior Te Ao Haka to be able to continue this course.

In 2025 our Kapa Haka rōpū will competed in the Wellington Regional Kapa Haka competition. In 2026 the rōpū will continue to grow and perform looking forward to 2027 when the next regional competition happens in the region.

This course provides students with the opportunity to develop their Te Reo Māori skills through reading, writing, listening and oral exercises. They will increase their confidence in speaking through communicative activities and practising cultural protocols. Students will develop poi and tī rakau coordination and experience regional initiatives such as Ngā Manu Kōrero and Kapa Haka events. Year 9 Te Reo is grouped to allow students with existing fluency to work separately from beginning learners, building on their prior knowledge and competency.

Te Whare Whakapakari is a combined Health PE and Te Ao Māori course. It takes students through physical activities with an awareness of the world around us through the lens of the Māori world view.

In Year 10 Spanish, you’ll build on everything you learned in Year 9 and start using the language in more depth. You’ll learn to talk about your school life, describe your hometown, and make plans for holidays! You’ll keep developing your skills in speaking, listening, reading, and writing, while expanding your vocabulary and sentence structures.We’ll continue exploring the diverse cultures of the Spanish-speaking world through music, festivals, traditions, and everyday life. Lessons are interactive and focused on real communication, helping you gain confidence in expressing yourself in Spanish.

Whether you're thinking about travel, future study, or just love learning about new cultures, Year 10 Spanish opens the door to exciting opportunities.

Mathematics and Statistics is a compulsory subject for all students in Year 11. All aspects of the New Zealand Curriculum will be covered in this course and throughout  the year students will plan their programme with their teacher. This will be based on their goals, previous successes and future pathways. Our vision at WEGC is that Mathematics is challenging, engaging, and important.

This English course is for all students to enjoy learning about texts and language while developing essential literacy, communication and critical thinking skills. You will study a range of texts such as novels, short stories, plays and films including literature from Aotearoa. You will become increasingly skilled in written, visual and oral language. Activities will include formal and creative writing, making films and speeches, and involve working both individually and collaboratively in a group. You will also learn to express your ideas and identity with confidence as you develop the skills necessary for the senior school.

Samoan is, for tens of thousands of New Zealanders, a language of family, faith, commerce and culture. The value of learning the Samoan language is significant for our community. In this course, students will further explore and discover the rich Sāmoan culture, and develop communication skills. A focus on using Sāmoan in the classroom encourages students to gain confidence in speaking the language. Students who wish to take this course should have some basic knowledge of the Samoan language. 

In this course students will learn how to play and/or sing songs in French, and extend their knowledge of French language, culture and sounds. Students will learn how to play a variety of instruments - ukulele, guitar, bass, keyboards, drums, and vocals - in order to perform as a group. They will also explore language features, cultural aspects and background context conveyed in the songs’ lyrics. Students will improve their comprehension, pronunciation and articulation skills in both French and Music, following a task-based approach in a fun environment. The repertoire will comprise classic French songs, modern hits and playful compositions and might extend to songwriting workshops. 

The learning in this course will involve learning the Kapa Haka bracket to be able to perform. There is also the opportunity for those wishing to lead behind the scene in Kākahu design, hair and makeup, moko application, music and logistics. In Years 11, 12, and 13 students will have the opportunity to take Senior Te Ao Haka  to be able to continue this course.

In 2025 our Kapa Haka rōpū will competed in the Wellington Regional Kapa Haka competition. In 2026 the rōpū will continue to perform and prepare for the next regional competition in 2027.

Students will work to increase and strengthen their language skills in Te Reo Māori, to also build their confidence in speaking basic Reo and normalising te reo within their learning. Formal Assessment and learning objectives are focused on Reading & Listening Comprehension, Formal Speeches and Writing in Te Reo Māori. The Students are encouraged to participate in Pōwhiri and Marae protocol activities, Waka Ama Sports and Rāwhiti-Kapa Haka to improve their understanding of Tikanga Māori (Cultural Customs).

How are the indigenous people of Aotearoa and the South Pacific linked? What has been the impact of the waves of people coming from Europe, and how have Māori and Pasifika people responded? In this subject you will have the opportunity to begin to answer these questions by looking at activism, art beliefs and perspectives on these, in Aotearoa and the Pacific.  As we do look at religion in this course, it is important that students are comfortable with thinking critically about the beliefs of other faiths.

This course is based on the Level 6 Achievement Objectives of Chinese in the New Zealand Curriculum. Students will have the opportunity to further develop their language skills and immerse in the vibrant culture of China and other Chinese-speaking countries. A variety of captivating topics are covered such as Chinese history, art, cuisine, and pop culture. Students will be able to actively participate in daily conversations, navigate real-life situations with confidence, enjoy Chinese culture and begin to explore the vast world of written Chinese. This course serves as a solid foundation for further language learning and pathway for NCEA Level 2 study in the future.

Money makes the world go round, right? If you want to know about how financial decisions are made, and get some valuable life experience making decisions yourself, then Commerce is a subject that you shouldn’t pass by. This course explores why we need to make choices about how to use our time, skills and money. Additionally, we’ll learn about various tools that individuals, whānau, businesses, and government can use to help them with their decision-making. You’ll put these tools to work in your own personal life as you develop a business idea and take a product to market. We’ll also look at how the economy works as a whole, and how outside events or decisions made by one person or group can have far-reaching impacts on other people and groups. Year 11 Commerce develops understanding of the key skills and concepts that students need to know for Economics, Business Studies, and Accounting in Level 2 and beyond.

In Design and Visual Communication Technology you will learn about how design impacts everyday lives. In this course students will imagine, design, draw, create and make. They will use the design room and workshop spaces to research, plan, model and present two main projects: an Architectural and a Product Design project. Students will continue working within the Technology Design Process using freehand sketching, technical drawing and digital-based 2D and 3D design skills along with making and construction processes using a wide range of materials. There is a focus on sustainable design practices and the ability of good design to influence society.

Year 11 Drama is a time of laying down strong foundation skills for becoming a confident actor, an innovative theatre maker and a team player.

Students will work collaboratively with their teacher to select a scripted drama that is performed to friends and family. They will make choices about costume and staging to support character development, and will share in the responsibility for lighting and sound decisions. Students will learn about different theatre forms and engage with these features to enact performances. They will explore a range of theatre making techniques as they work in small groups to devise an original drama about a given theme. It’s an exciting and fun-filled learning adventure that provides numerous opportunities to build interpersonal skills as we work together to solve creative problems and bring out the best in each other.

Students will attend a minimum of two professional drama performances as part of the program.

This is a general English course. It includes the study of written texts such as novels, poetry, short stories, as well as film. There will be creative and formal writing, and the opportunity to create a presentation such as a speech, static image or monologue.

This is a course designed for students with an interest in writing. Your interest could lie with either creative or formal writing or both! You will have the opportunity to develop writing of your own choice. This course also includes the study of written texts such as novels, poetry, short stories, as well as film. You will create a presentation such as a speech, static image or monologue.

This course is for students who have an interest in food and the development of food products. Students will use the Technology process to develop food products; they will design and create their own food products. Students will generate design ideas that are informed by research and creativity based on given contexts. Students will work on one project that will be tailored to suit the individual’s needs.

This course will appeal to students who already have some prior French study and who are keen to become more fluent in a language that is spoken on all 5 continents.The four skills of reading, writing, listening and speaking are developed using online activities, games, individual and group work and out of class activities, where appropriate. Topics include L’Amitié, En Vacances,  Au Lycée, Les Fêtes, and La Santé  among others. All learning in this course integrates culture and language.  This course is based on the Level 6 Achievement Objectives of French in the New Zealand Curriculum and students will complete one NCEA Assessment standard. 

Year 11 Samoan will be offered to students with a moderate knowledge of the language. This course is based on the Level 6 Achievement Objectives in The National Curriculum for Samoan. Students entering the course should have good basic knowledge of the language/culture. The four basic skills of reading, writing, speaking and listening are practised and assessed, in addition to knowledge of the cultural background.

Why are there deserts in some parts of the world, and rainforests in others? Why do people choose to settle in different areas? Why does Wellington have wind and floods and why do we get so many earthquakes? Why do some countries have bigger populations than others and what does this mean for the future? How will climate change affect our planet? 

In answering these questions, students will develop their skills in analysing and using maps and written resources, developing and interpreting graphs, and better understanding the world we are in and how we relate to it and work with it. There will be an emphasis on current global and local geographic challenges and opportunities. This is a relevant and engaging course, preparing students for real life issues and teaching skills that are in demand in the workforce.

This course provides students with opportunities to develop critical thinking skills by exploring a range of health issues. Students will develop strategies to promote positive changes to wellbeing for both self and others. Students will partake in the practical application of interpersonal skills that focus on relating to others and gaining new skills for learning and life.

Topics covered: wellbeing, interpersonal skills, positive sexuality, decision making, socio-ecological perspectives, attitudes and values and health promotion.

How have groups fought against discrimination and injustice in the past? This course explores the theme of Intolerance and Resistance in the 20th century. We will examine the causes and consequences of different events, including the formation of the Black Panther Party in America and its connection to Aotearoa.

This course emphasises developing skills used across the Social Sciences. Students will begin to learn to analyse sources for their reliability and usefulness, to understand contrasting viewpoints and to write sustained responses to open-ended questions.

The Year 11 Hospitality course is an Industry Unit Standard based course which gives students basic skills and experiences to help prepare them for a possible future career in the Hospitality Industry. It covers Service IQ Unit Standards which covers various skills and techniques as well as possible catering experiences. There are a lot of practical experiences in this course as well as opportunities to be involved with other workshops and competitions.

The whakataukī for our course is ‘Poipoia te kākano kia puāwai’ which means ‘Nurture the seed, and it will blossom’. In 2026 we will explore different subjects and will include English and Mathematics. The topics covered will be a collaboration between the students and teacher, driven by the students and teachers interests and passions. Integrated Studies is an academic course aimed at students who would benefit from additional time, teacher support and a more holistic approach to learning. The course is fully internally assessed, and you will work at your own pace to complete assessment tasks. 

Integrated Studies is the equivalent of three subject lines taught by two teachers, so students also choose IS101 and IS102 in selecting courses. Students taking this course do not need to choose English and Mathematics as it is integrated into this course. Further information will come out shortly in regards to the other learning being covered.

The Year 11 Materials Technology course is for students who have an interest in fashion and textile design. It focuses on developing skills in garment construction, textile decoration, and basic pattern making. This course builds on students’ design and sewing skills through three projects. Students will follow the Technology Design Process, work with stakeholders, and use research and experimentation to test their ideas before making final outcomes. Students will create a quilt to donate to a charity, redesign an aspect of the school uniform, and make a hoodie with an applied design such as embroidery or vinyl. 

Students start to look at what media products are and how they relate to their audience. Year 11 includes a genre study (film or TV), researching an ethical media issue and close reading film. The practical element of the course is planning and creating a short film piece, either a trailer or a music video.

This course includes the development of music appreciation through listening skills, understanding the musical elements and how they come together in a piece of music and composition skills. It is essential that students have an instrument (or voice) for performance assessment which will be supported by the itinerant music programme.

This course offers students a wide variety of learning contexts in, through and about movement. Topics that may be covered include factors that influence participation, sport and exercise science, quality movement/sport performance, interpersonal skills and leadership, critical thinking around societal issues and safety/risk management. This course consists of both theory and practical components and all assessments are internal. Students will work with their teacher to select some of the learning contexts.

Students will audition for this class and work alongside other students from years 11-13. This course offers music learning through being a member of WEGC's only auditioned choir, Rāwhiti.

Students will gain vocal technique, music theory, composer knowledge, language and musicianship skills and perform in many different performance contexts. Students will gain NCEA credits at a level that is appropriate to their learning level and will develop their music learning skills through performing and being a member of the choir.

This foundational science programme will prepare students for any of the individual Science courses at Year 12. The topics to be studied will relate to Physics (Mechanics – forces, motion & energy), Chemistry, (Chemical Reactions) and Biology (Genetic Variation). Students will also complete a report on a biological health issue (microbes). Students will:

• Carry out a range of chemistry experiments in the laboratory and will be able to identify and give definitions for which type of chemical reaction is happening in 3 different types of reaction. They will make observations and write chemical formulae, word and balanced chemical equations.
• Apply mathematical analysis to Physical phenomena. This involves making measurements, graphing data and interpreting graphs, and using formula to solve problems about forces, speed, acceleration of an object and energy, work and power. 
• Explore how the chemical DNA codes for traits in living things that are passed on through generations in predictable patterns. Recognise how the diversity of life has evolved. 
• Investigate a public health issue (school sores) and the microbiology behind the cause and the spread. Recognise that there are different models of health and that multiple perspectives are needed to solve complete community health issues.

Māori and Pasifika people have always been scientists, are scientists and need to be scientists in the future. This course explores both science and indigenous knowledge from Aotearoa and around the Pacific, with a focus on mātauranga Māori. The topics to be studied will relate to Physics (preparing for Year 12, in a context of students’ choosing), Pasifika wayfinding, Biology (biological issues relevant to NZ/The Pacific) and Chemistry (climate change in the Pacific). Students will:

.Research traditional indigenous knowledge about ocean navigation and learn about astronomy related to celestial cycles. They will experience for themselves what it's like sailing a waka hourua and an optimist boat at Worser Bay. 

• Investigate the chemistry of climate change through laboratory experiments and research the causes, impacts and solutions for climate change in the Pacific. 
• Use a range of different scientific investigations and mātauranga Māori to identify which plants in our local area can be used to fight infection.
• Learn about key concepts related to genetics and how DNA codes for traits that can be passed on through generations. 
• Use mathematics by making measurements, graphing data and interpreting graphs, and using formula to solve problems about forces, speed, acceleration of an object and energy, work and power. 

In this course, students will be working towards achieving Te Ao Haka Achievement Standards at Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3. The students will be encouraged to explore the traditional art of Kapa haka and cultural movements on a learning experience level right through to competitive haka. There is an expectation for students in Te Ao Haka to participate in most Māori cultural performances such as pōwhiri,and local fundraising performances in the community.

This NCEA Level 1 course continues learning from Years 9 and 10. The formal assessment and learning objectives are focused on Reading & Listening Comprehension, Formal Speeches and Writing in Te Reo Māori. There is an expectation that the students should participate and be involved with as much Kaupapa Māori conducted by the Learning Area as possible.

We offer ONE Level 1 Achievement Standard, which the class will choose as a group.

The Year 11 Visual Art programme is open to all students who have studied either a Visual Art or Toi Māori course at Year 10. Students will explore four different approaches to art-making in this course - Photography, Design, Painting and Sculpture. These will each be offered as intensive 8 week programmes of work. This exposure will enable students to develop a strong understanding of each Visual Arts discipline offered at Wellington East, in order to select their preferred subject choice at Level 2. Students will have the opportunity to gain Level 2 credits within a Painting standard. 

This course is an introduction to Mathematical Modeling and Problem Solving. Students studying this course will learn some more sophisticated algebraic and graphical techniques that can be used to solve both real world and mathematical problems. They will extend their knowledge of Statistics and Probability and be introduced to Calculus, an important concept in Mathematics. The course consists of two internal assessments, one statistical methods and one graphical modelling. The remainder of the course is externally assessed with an exam for Algebra, Calculus and Probability. This course provides a good foundation for STEM careers and all possible Level 3 courses: MC300, SP300 or SR300.

Students studying this course will gain more familiarity with data and statistical thinking, sampling and analysing data from real world contexts. They will also learn about Networks and Critical Path Analysis, which have many modern applications. There may be some algebraic content in a couple of topics. There is one compulsory externally-assessed topic. * Course content may change depending on the Minstry of Education Curriculum annoucments.

This course develops students’ understanding and skills in computational thinking (including programming), and designing and developing digital outcomes (including websites).

Students will:

• develop and test computer programs written in Python
• develop a website using an Agile methodology - to support this, students will learn to code in HTML and CSS to make a simple and effective website
• learn about human-computer interaction - i.e. how to design computer systems and devices that are user-friendly.

In this course, students will be working towards achieving Te Ao Haka Achievement Standards at Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3. The students will be encouraged to explore the traditional art of Kapa haka and cultural movements on a learning experience level right through to competitive haka. There is an expectation for students in Te Ao Haka to participate in most Māori cultural performances such as pōwhiri,and local fundraising performances in the community.

This NCEA Level 1 course continues learning from Years 9 and 10. The formal assessment and learning objectives are focused on Reading & Listening Comprehension, Formal Speeches and Writing in Te Reo Māori. There is an expectation that the students should participate and be involved with as much Kaupapa Māori conducted by the Learning Area as possible.

We offer ONE Level 1 Achievement Standard, which the class will choose as a group.

How can you tell if a business or organisation is operating successfully, and how do you work out what they could do better? You look at their bottom line, and check their processes, of course! In Level 2 Accounting you will learn how to prepare financial statements and how to tell the story of what these mean so that you can make informed decisions for a business. You will also build an understanding of how information related to inventory and accounts receivable is processed, and what systems a business can put in place to reduce losses and maximise their profits. Not only this, but you will get to experience the use of Xero, the most up-to-date cloud accounting package created right here in Wellington.

This subject examines aspects of culture in both Aotearoa and the Pacific. We will look at the use of Māori and Pasifika motifs and symbols in art, and the idea of cultural appropriation. You will investigate religious traditions in Aotearoa and look at the emergence of Māori prophets in response to colonialism. There is also an analysis of perspectives relating to resource extraction and the impact this has had on Pacific people.

This course examines French art, architecture and sculpture from the time of the French Revolution (1789) through to the beginning of the twentieth century. It looks at the way artworks were made, the stories behind them and the political, social and scientific context in which they were made. We study artists such as van Gogh, Manet, Monet, Renoir, Ingres, and David as well as many others. You do not have to be taking a practical art subject in order to do this course.

This NCEA Level 2 subject is a general course that covers a range of topics within Biology including biological investigation, cell biology and microscopy, genetic variation and change, and New Zealand ecology. It is recommended for students intending to study Biological Sciences, Environmental Studies or Medicine at university. Students will:

• Investigate ecological patterns in Aotearoa New Zealand, by researching the plight of the Takahe using population data, ecological ideas and observations from a field trip to Zealandia. 
• Understand how life processes occur at the cellular level in plants and animals, including exploring cell structures with microscopy.
• Build on their understanding of genetic variation and change by understanding how processes in cells like DNA replication and meiosis lead to more complex inheritance pattens and changes to the gene pool over time.
• Investigate factors that affect enzymes by planning and carrying out a lab based investigation to the effect of temperature on enzymes. 

This NCEA Level 2 subject is set in the context of human health sciences, including carrying out a practical investigation into fitness, psychology fields, cell biology including microscopy and indigenous plant medicines of the Pacific. Students have the opportunity to complete a first aid certificate with 3 Unit Standards at the beginning of the year. It is suitable for students wishing to study in areas such as nursing, paramedicine, occupational therapy or sports science. Students will:

• Undertake a full day first aid course at the beginning of the year.
• Learn about different theories in psychology and apply approaches from different fields to the treatment of hazardous drinking in Aotearoa.
• Understand how life processes occur at the cellular level in plants and animals, including exploring cell structures with microscopy.
• Plan and carry out an investigation into factors that affect cardiovascular fitness.
• Research how plants have been used in traditional medicine in Aotearoa and the Pacific. 

Students wishing to study medicine are advised to take Biology 200 (BL200), along with Chemistry 200 and Physics 200.

Have you got ideas about products that could make people better off, but aren't quite sure how to turn those into reality? If you’re going to make it happen, then you’ll need to gain some hands-on experience and develop your business knowledge. The Level 2 Business Studies course is designed to do just that, with students conducting market research and developing a product with an aim to enhance community wellbeing. They will also learn about the nuts and bolts of internal operations and motivation theories used by larger businesses. This will give students a great foundation to pursue their own business ideas or further study in the field, as well as getting an insight into how a range of organisations operate in practice.

This course studies different areas of chemistry under the headings: “Structure, Bonding, Properties & Energy Changes”, “Organic Chemistry”, “Oxidation-Reduction” and “Qualitative Chemistry”. Internal assessments focus on the ability to carry out practical work to support/develop conclusions, as well as content knowledge. Chemistry involves some calculations and because of this, students doing Chemistry should also be taking a Level 2 Mathematics course. Learning in this course includes:

• Redox: Carry out practicals that involve the transfer of electrons from one species to another, usually resulting in colour changes and substances in new states forming.
• Structure & Bonding: Explore different solids and their properties and what's happening at a particle level to explain the properties. Observe the temperature changes during chemical reactions and relate this to energy changes.
• Organic Chemistry: Carry out lots of practicals showing the chemical and physical properties of different families of organic substances (substances containing carbon).  
• Qualitative Chemistry: Investigate the types of organic compounds found in kūmara and discuss the significance of these compounds to people.

This course is based on the Level 7 Achievement Objectives of Chinese in the New Zealand Curriculum. Students will further develop linguistic and cultural competency. Traditional Chinese values and practices will be explored and discussed. The Level 2 Chinese course will allow students to engage in meaningful conversations, express themselves confidently in writing, comprehend authentic materials, and immerse themselves in Chinese culture. The four skills of reading, writing, listening and speaking are practised and assessed. Cultural aspects are integrated into the course.

Design is a practical programme offered in Visual Art. The course involves strengthening skills in a range of design conventions and developing ideas appropriate to established design practice. Students will use Photoshop and Illustrator alongside practical art-making techniques to explore ideas within either a Branding or Character based Portfolio. Students will benefit from having access to the Adobe suite on their personal device to complete work outside of class time. The external two-panel portfolio of design work demonstrates understanding of design conventions and ideas.

In Design and Visual Communication Technology you will learn about how design impacts everyday lives. In this course students will imagine, design, draw, create and make. They will use the design room and workshop spaces to research, plan, model and present two main projects: an Architectural and a Product Design project. Students will continue working within the Technology Design Process using freehand sketching, technical drawing and digital-based 2D and 3D design skills along with making and construction processes using a wide range of materials. There is a focus on sustainable design practices and the ability of good design to influence society.

This course builds on skills learned in Year 11 and enables students to further develop their performance skills and capacity to work innovatively as part of a team. Units of work reflect the interests of the students as we endeavour to make meaningful connections to the world around us through drama. Students are involved in a range of individual and group activities, which may include script writing, directing, devised scenes, the study of a theatre form and a class production. This program encourages the development of strong self-management skills, as well as tools for analysis and reflection as students work to bring creative projects to a high level of performance. It is expected that students will attend a minimum of two professional drama/theatre productions.

If you like the idea of exploring topical big issues that affect all of us, such as the “cost of living” and the quality of life that we are able to enjoy, then Level 2 Economics could be an eye-opening course for you. We will learn about a number of economic models to help us analyse the effects of different events and tell a story of how they impact the macroeconomic issues of economic growth, inflation, and unemployment. We will also look at how different groups are affected by changes in key issues, and what (if anything) the government can do to respond to changes and improve outcomes for different participants in the economy. This subject will give you a greater understanding of what’s going on in the news, and will also give you the tools to navigate arguments about how we should allocate resources for the greatest good.

The course includes the exploration of texts such as novels, plays, poetry, short stories and films. Close reading of unfamiliar texts is also covered.  You will develop your creative and formal writing skills.  There will be the opportunity to choose between making an oral or visual text.

This course is designed for students to develop key literacy skills while gaining Level 2 credits or for students who do not have Level 1 Literacy. It includes the study of a novel, short stories and film. Two internally assessed standards build reading and writing throughout the year: a writing portfolio and a research activity. There will also be the opportunity to choose between making an oral or visual text.

This course is designed for students to design and develop food products to fit a brief and stakeholder’s requirements, using a context of their choosing. Students will use the Technology process as a framework to develop food products. Students will generate design ideas that are informed by research and creativity. Students will work on one major project that will be tailored to suit individual needs.

This course is based on the Level 7 Achievement Objectives of French in the New Zealand Curriculum. In Level 2 French, students will develop their ability to communicate in French and to express personal viewpoints on a wide range of topics and in many different situations, using the four language skills – listening, speaking, reading and writing. Topics may include Les Jeunes, Le Monde du Travail, La Santé, L’Environnement, La Francophonie, and Le Cinéma, and will be based on student choice. All learning in this course integrates language and culture.

This course is suitable for students who would like help planning their future and to have opportunities to develop skills and competencies to enable achievement of education and future employment goals. Students in this class may choose to participate in a one- or two-day Trade Academy programme at a tertiary institution like WELTEC/Whitireia.

Students will have the opportunity to select from a range of course modules and experiences including these topics:

• Produce a plan for their future direction
• Produce a plan to enhance their learning
• Produce a personal targeted CV (Curriculum Vitae)
• Deal with stress and time management
• Assertiveness and budgeting skills

NCEA Level 2 Samoan will be offered to students with a good knowledge of the language. The course is based on the Level 7 Achievement Objectives in The National Curriculum for Samoan. Students entering the course should have good basic knowledge of the language/culture. The four basic skills of reading, writing, speaking and listening are practised and assessed, in addition to knowledge of the cultural background.

Water, malaria and public safety are themes of this course. Explore the health of our local streams through studying and taking a field trip to conduct research. We will also probe social issues such as the extent and causes of the disease malaria and look at the issue of safety in Courtenay Place and what is being done about it. Within this course you’ll marvel at our awesome natural environment and also cringe at the confronting social issues facing us right here in New Zealand. 

Through these topics, you will enhance your skill in analysing and using maps and written resources to add evidence to your writing. You will conduct fieldwork and create and interpret graphs, in order to better understand the world we are in and how we relate to it and work with it. This is a relevant and engaging course, preparing you for real life issues and teaching skills that are in demand in the workforce.

This NCEA Level 2 course allows students to explore key influences that support or undermine the wellbeing of themselves, others and society. Students are given the opportunity to take action on a health promotion initiative to enhance the wellbeing of the school community. Students will seek to challenge and explore values, beliefs and opinions relating to a range of health topics with many contexts being selected by the students.

Topics covered include: wellbeing, discrimination, gender and sexuality, managing change, adolescent health issues, health promotion to support wellbeing.

This is a Women’s History course that begins with the rise of first-wave feminism in the late nineteenth century and examines issues still facing women in the present day. We will examine such questions as - what is gender? What led to the rise of feminism in the 1960s and 70s? How have women’s roles changed over time? We will also meet many amazing characters who fought for social justice and equality.

Year 12 History is a literacy-rich programme that develops the skills of research and essay writing. It encourages critical thinking about sources, viewpoints and the complexity of evaluating the significance of the causes and consequences of historical events. It is excellent preparation for any course in Year 13 where analysis and writing are key. 

Year 12 Hospitality is an Industry Unit Standard based course which gives students skills and experiences to help prepare them for a possible future career in the Hospitality Industry. It covers Service IQ Unit Standards which covers various skills and techniques as well as catering experience.

Who are the mana wāhine in our world and what can we learn from them? This course focuses on the theme of strong women and covers learning in English, Mathematics, Social Science, and Media Studies while having a  focus on literacy and numeracy development. This is an academic programme that offers flexible deadlines and smaller class sizes. It is designed to develop literacy and communication skills and is fully internally assessed. The opportunity to complete a level of the Duke of Edinburgh Award may be included in this course. 

Integrated Studies is the equivalent of three subjects, so students also pick IS201 and IS202 in selecting courses.

Students taking IS200 do not need to choose English and Mathematics as they are integrated into this course

The Year 12 Materials Technology course is for students who have an interest in fashion and textile design. It focuses on developing skills in garment construction, textile art, and pattern making. The course builds on students’ design, sewing, and construction skills through a range of projects. Students will follow the Technology Design Process, work with stakeholders, and use research and experimentation to test and refine their ideas. Students will explore sustainability by creating a zero-waste garment of their choice, design and construct a textile art piece for display, and develop their pattern making skills by drafting and sewing a custom top. An optional external assessment is also available.

Students look at narrative, genre and representations. The practical units are on journalism and short film. Students produce a feature article on a topic of their choice, from conducting the interview to writing it out, and then plan and film a short film.

This course continues to develop music appreciation through performing in solo and/or group capacities, composing in different genres, learning about how various instruments function and building harmony and aural skills.

This course aims to develop an awareness of the opportunities the outdoors provides for recreation. Students will have the chance to develop self-confidence, leadership and perseverance through challenging outdoor activities. This course is both theoretical and practical. Practical sessions involve part day, full day or multi-day activities. All students accepted for this course must participate in all activities, including camps.

Topics covered include - but are not limited to - surfing, paddleboarding, rock climbing, environmental sustainability, adventure-based learning and leadership development.

Painting is a practical programme offered in Visual Art. The course involves strengthening skills in a range of painting conventions and developing ideas appropriate to established painting practice. The external two-panel portfolio of work needs to demonstrate understanding of painting conventions and ideas.

Photography is a practical programme offered in Visual Art. The course is digitally based, using quality digital cameras, Photoshop for the manipulation of images and digital printing processes. The work of established photographers is studied and applied to students’ own work. The course involves strengthening skills in a range of photographic conventions and developing ideas appropriate to established photographic practice. Students will need to have access to a digital SLR camera and would benefit from having access to Photoshop at home.

The NCEA Level 2 course allows students to explore movement in a variety of contexts. Students will have the opportunity to develop knowledge, skills and understanding that relates to improving performance, constructing training programmes, physical activity leadership, event management and sports science. A significant part of this course is organising the winter sports festival for the central zone Wellington primary schools. The course consists of both theory and practical components with an emphasis on learning in, through and about movement.

This course studies Mechanics, Electricity and Magnetism and Atomic Physics. If a career needs Chemistry, then Physics should be considered too. Physics involves application of mathematical skills, so students wishing to take Physics should be studying a Level 2 Mathematics course.

Students will audition for this class and work alongside 29 other students from years 11-13. This course offers music learning through being a member of WEGC's only auditioned choir, Rāwhiti.

Students will gain vocal technique, music theory, composer knowledge, language and musicianship skills and perform in many different performance contexts. Students will gain NCEA credits at a level that is appropriate to their learning level and will develop their music learning skills through performing and being a member of the choir.

Sculpture is a practical programme offered in three-dimensional Visual Art. The course begins with an investigation into methods and ideas used in established sculpture practice. Drawing is the basis for idea development, and a variety of materials are used to explore three-dimensional problem solving. The externally assessed two-panel folio demonstrates understanding of art-making conventions and ideas.

Students who would benefit from additional literacy and numeracy support will be invited to join this course. This course will also include study skills, life skills, and support to engage well in their other subjects. Please speak to your Dean if you think this course could benefit you. 

Why do people have such strong opinions on social issues? How do people's perspectives and values shape their actions? How have different groups worked to fight against the problems they see in our society? These are the questions that underpin this course. 

It is an ideal class for students who are interested in understanding how people bring about change.  This course looks at conflicts both here in New Zealand and abroad. Students will take action on a local issue, where you work as a group to organise and plan your own social action. 

Sociology requires research and literacy skills. Students are provided with highly structured writing tasks to build their skills, and students develop their organisation and critical thinking.

In this course, students will be working towards achieving Te Ao Haka Achievement Standards at Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3. The students will be encouraged to explore the traditional art of Kapa-Haka and cultural movements on a learning experience level right through to competitive haka. There is an expectation for students in Te Ao Haka to participate in most Māori cultural performances such as Pōwhiri,and local fundraising performances in the community.

This NCEA Level 2, Level 3 combined course continues learning from NCEA Level 1. The formal assessment and learning objectives are focused on Reading & Listening Comprehension, Formal Speeches and Writing in Te Reo Māori. There is an expectation that the students should participate and be involved with as much Kaupapa Māori as possible that is conducted by the Learning Area, Tikanga and Kapa-Haka Committee at WEGC.  

This Level 2 NCEA course offers students a clear understanding of the skills and knowledge required to work in the tourism and travel sector. Students will explore the nature of the tourism industry and how it works in New Zealand. They will increase their awareness of travel terminology and world geography while developing skills in planning and marketing.

The purpose of Wellington Trades Academy courses is to provide students with the opportunity to get a head start, continue with education and learn new skills in a variety of vocational pathways not offered within secondary schools. You will select one area of interest and attend classes either one or two days per week, whilst still attending WEGC for the other three or four days. The pathway you choose will allow you to gain credits towards NCEA and across other national qualifications within vocational pathways.

These skills will assist in preparing you for either further study in your chosen area, or entry into employment or apprenticeships. It is an exciting opportunity for you to start developing the skills and attributes that are valued by employers alongside gaining you qualifications. You are support by a tertiary provider, along with teachers at WEGC, in planning your next stage to identify what that may look like.

Students do not choose Trades Academy through the course selection process. Instead, they should contact the Careers Department for more information.

Students studying Calculus will learn about differentiation and integration, and further extend their knowledge of number systems to complex numbers. They will also learn to model real-life situations using trigonometric functions. Recommended for students doing Physics and continuing with mathematically-based disciplines, for example Engineering, Finance, etc. Students can take both MC300 and SP300 for a full mathematics programme in L3. 

Explores methods of statistical analysis and evaluation of real-world evidence, with a focus on report writing. Teaching covers forecasting future trends, predicting outcomes and comparing different groups. Students will also learn about the principles of experimental design. This course is a good introduction to university courses that have subject-specific use of statistics, for example Commerce or Ecology. The course structure allows students to choose between standards offered, with students aiming for 14 or more credits for L3.

Statistics and Probability covers a range of topics exploring fundamentals of statistical and probability methods. This includes forecasting, modelling and a range of new probability distributions. Recommended for students continuing in disciplines (e.g. Psychology or other Social Sciences, Environmental Sciences) which require a solid grounding in statistical methods or heavy statistical and mathematical content. Students can take both MC300 and SP300 for a full mathematics programme in L3. This course contributes between 19- 20 Credits depending on the chosen pathway with extra optional assessment credits. This is a University Entrance approved course which can be gained with endorsement. 

This course further develops students’ understanding and skills in computational thinking (including programming), and designing and developing digital outcomes (including databases and websites).

Students will:

• develop and test advanced computer programs written in Python
• design, build, manage and query a database (using SQL), and present the results effectively by embedding these in a website
• expand their knowledge of basic web technologies by learning SQL and Flask, and developing software using an Agile methodology

In this course, students will be working towards achieving Te Ao Haka Achievement Standards at Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3. The students will be encouraged to explore the traditional art of Kapa-Haka and cultural movements on a learning experience level right through to competitive haka. There is an expectation for students in Te Ao Haka to participate in most Māori cultural performances such as Pōwhiri,and local fundraising performances in the community.

This NCEA Level 2, Level 3 combined course continues learning from NCEA Level 1. The formal assessment and learning objectives are focused on Reading & Listening Comprehension, Formal Speeches and Writing in Te Reo Māori. There is an expectation that the students should participate and be involved with as much Kaupapa Māori as possible that is conducted by the Learning Area, Tikanga and Kapa-Haka Committee at WEGC.  

Could you be in charge of a department? Do you have aspirations of becoming a leader in a large organisation or owning your own business in the future? Would you like to work in a financial role? In Level 3 Accounting you will learn more about how the financial statements of a company are prepared so that you can be financially savvy and make good managerial decisions. You will also navigate around an annual report of a NZ company listed on the stock exchange which will provide you with an insight on what happens in these large companies. Through doing this course you will gain valuable financial literacy skills which you can use to make wise investment decisions for yourself in the future.

This course looks at the art made in Europe at the start of the twentieth century during the period known as Early Modernism. It begins with an in-depth study of the work of Picasso and how Cubism influenced other modern art movements. It includes works by other key artists such as Matisse, Mondrian and Kandinsky. The second part of the course looks at German Expressionism and the impact of the First World War on art and artists. The third part of the course examines Surrealism and the impact of Freud’s theories of psychoanalysis and art. You do not have to have taken Level 2 Art History or be taking a practical art subject in order to do this course.

This Level 3 NCEA course provides a good general background for any area of biological study at the tertiary level. The course covers evolution, animal behaviour and plant responses to the environment, biological investigation, and socio-scientific issues in Biology. You cannot take both BH300 and BL300. Students will:

• Plan and carry out a laboratory based biological investigation, with guidance. 
• Research and develop an informed response to a current socio-scientific issue, of their choosing and write a report on this.
• Understand animal behaviour and plant responses to the environment, including a zoo trip to observe animal behaviour. 
• Learn about current techniques in biotechnology for manipulating genetic material and compare and contrast a case study of transgenesis with selective breeding. 

This Level 3 NCEA course follows on from the Level 2 Health Science course, using contexts related to human health. This course covers cultural health perspectives, a practical investigation into fitness, homeostasis, and human evolution. It is suitable for students wishing to study in areas such as nursing, paramedicine, occupational therapy, sports science or medical laboratory science. Students wishing to study medicine are advised to take BH300 or BL300, along with Chemistry 300 and Physics 300.  You cannot take both BH300 and BL300. Students will:

• Research and develop an informed response to a chosen socio-scientific issue, such as vaccination, and write a report.
• Learn how the human body maintains stable internal conditions such as temperature, blood glucose levels and pH and apply their understanding of thermoregulation to a scenario. 
• Learn about patterns of human evolution including trends in biological and cultural changes as well as dispersal patterns of early humans around the planet. 
• Plan and carry out an investigation into a factor that affects a chosen aspect of fitness, with guidance.

What do Jacinda Ardern, Brooke Roberts, Nathalie Whitaker, Mike McRoberts and Rod Drury have in common? They all participated in the Lion Foundation Young Enterprise Scheme (YES) and are among many hugely successful YES alumni. Whether you are the next Sir Peter Beck or Nadia Lim, or our future Prime Minister, Level 3 Business Studies will provide opportunities for you to consult with business mentors and carry out an innovative and sustainable business activity whilst participating in YES. Through running your business, you will learn many transferable skills including organisation, collaboration, communication, negotiation, leadership, and financial management which will be useful wherever your future aspirations might take you.

Topics in this course build on those studied at Level 2 at a more theoretical level and include “Thermochemistry”, “Aqueous Solutions”, “Spectroscopy”, “Oxidation-Reduction” & “An Environmental Issue”. Students will:

Redox: Carry out practicals that mimic how the batteries in phones/laptops/cars work - converting chemical potential energy to electrical energy and vice versa.

Spectroscopy: Undertake problem-solving - what's the mystery compound, given 3 spectra (graphs) produced by the mystery sample in 3 different types of spectroscope (instrument that measures light)?  These are highly used skills at university.

Aqueous systems: Build on their understanding of acids and bases, involving lots of calculations. This learning also helps with the chemical processes internal report on ocean acidification - looking at how this acidification affects shellfish.

Thermochemistry: Build on their theoretical understanding of Structure and Bonding from Level 2 Chemistry. .

This course is based on the aims and Achievement Objectives of Level 8 of Chinese in the New Zealand Curriculum and students need to have mastery of the material in all previous levels of the curriculum. The four skills of reading, writing, listening and speaking are practised and assessed. Cultural aspects are integrated into the course. In the Level 3 Chinese course, you can engage in meaningful conversation and produce well-developed written texts. You will be at the stage that propels you towards advanced proficiency and opens doors to further academic, professional and personal opportunities.

In this course we will study the political, social and religious changes Rome's first emperor, Augustus, introduced and his skilled use of art and literature as propaganda. We will also examine how Cleopatra has been remembered over time, and the poetry of Horace. Classical Studies fosters the development of various skills, including text analysis, composing comprehensive essays, and engaging in critical thinking about both historical and contemporary societies. By undertaking this course, students can develop their written communication abilities, preparing them well for any tertiary course requiring strong writing skills.

The Y13 Design course includes investigating the relationships between relevant recent design practices and the development of ideas in a drawing study.

Students will develop a brief and produce relevant outcomes in response to a design issue. Students will use Photoshop and Illustrator alongside practical art-making techniques to explore ideas within either a branding or character-based portfolio.  Having access to the Adobe suite on their personal device to complete work outside of class time is reccomended. The Design course consists of 1 internal assessment and 1 external portfolio submission. The external 3 panel portfolio of original design work demonstrates knowledge of art-making methods and ideas.

In Design and Visual Communication Technology you will learn about how design impacts everyday lives. In this course students will imagine, design, draw, create and make. They will use the design room and workshop spaces to research, plan, model and present two main projects: an Architectural and a Product Design project. Students can choose an area of design that they find fascinating or inspiring. Students will continue working within the Technology Design Process using freehand sketching, technical drawing and digital-based 2D and 3D design skills along with making and construction processes using a wide range of materials. There is a focus on sustainable design practices and the ability of good design to influence society. At Level 3, students will be able to focus on an area of interest within their design practice to resolve and refine a real-world design problem.

This course further develops students’ understanding and skills in computational thinking (including programming), and designing and developing digital outcomes (including databases and websites).

Students will:

• develop and test computer programs written in Python that focus on complex programming techniques, object-oriented programming using classes and objects, and writing code for a graphical user interface
• design, build, manage and query a database (using SQL), and present the results effectively by embedding these in a website
• expand their knowledge of basic web technologies (HTML and CSS) and further develop their knowledge of SQL and Flask

This course builds on skills learned in Level 2. Students are encouraged to develop their drama techniques and analytical skills to a more mature level, reflecting on the place of theatre in society. Students will research, devise and perform a solo or small group theatre piece, investigate a theatre form and/or practitioner and perform in a polished class production. It is expected that they will reflect critically on the drama process with a high level of perception. Assessment relates to practical, individual and group activities. It is expected that students will attend at least two professional drama/theatre productions.

Have you ever wondered why we, as consumers, behave the way we do with our purchases? Why do producers of some products frequently offer sales while others hardly ever do? Have you noticed any differences in how prices are determined in the petrol industry versus what happens at the Sunday markets? Level 3 Economics explores micro-economic theories that seek to explain these phenomena.

We often hear that “nothing is what it seems” and the same can be said about the consumption and production of some goods and services. There are hidden costs and benefits not directly factored into the production or consumption of these goods and services. In this course, you will also learn what these are and how the government can respond.

This course involves exploring literature and language while developing your critical thinking, writing skills and creativity. Written and visual texts will be studied in-depth. You can select your own texts to make connections and apply a literary lens to explore current issues. You will create a writing portfolio and be able to select activities based on your interest, including making a visual or oral text.

This is an internally assessed course for Level 3 students who do not need a full academic English course. It will be possible to gain Level 2 or Level 3 credits, credits towards UE Literacy, and strengthen English skills. You will study visual texts and select your own texts to make connections.  You will create a writing portfolio and be able to select activities based on your interest, including making a visual or oral text.  This is an approved course for English.

This course is designed for students to design and develop food products for a real-life situation. Students will use the Technology process as a framework to develop food products, and will work with stakeholders to solve real-life problems. Students will generate design ideas that are informed by research, critical analysis and knowledge of the functional properties of food. Students will choose their context and work on one major project for the year.

This course is based on the Level 8 Achievement Objectives of French in the New Zealand Curriculum. This course concentrates on expanding vocabulary, increasing fluency and developing a good style in written French, with the aim of developing communication skills and accuracy. Students will learn to express and justify their opinions and challenge the opinions of others Topics may include Gagner sa vie, Pour un monde meilleur, L’Immigration, La Culture Française. All learning in this course integrates culture and language.

This course focuses on individual students’ needs and career interests, and caters for students intending on transitioning into work directly from school and those planning to study at tertiary level. Students in this class may choose to participate in a one- or two-day Trade Academy programme at a tertiary institution like WELTEC/Whitireia.

Students will have the opportunity to select from a range of course modules and experiences including these topics:

• Career and education pathway planning
• Work readiness skills (skills that relate directly to the employment process)
• Communication skills
• Financial capability

The Level 3 Samoan course is based on the Level 8 Achievement Objectives in The National Curriculum for Samoan. The four basic skills of reading, writing, speaking and listening are further developed across a variety of topics with knowledge of cultural background integrated into the course.

This course focuses on the way people interact with our natural and cultural environments. Is tourism a sustainable industry? We will take a field trip to Rotorua to explore this question. We explore the beautiful Great Barrier Reef and the dangers it is facing and also analyse the causes, effects and processes involved in the global pattern of coral reefs.

Through these topics, you will advance your skills in drawing evidence from interpreting maps, graphs and written resources, conducting fieldwork, creating and interpreting graphs and maps, and analysing the world we are in and how we relate to it and work with it.

Health is a growing industry with many diverse opportunities for employment and research. This is a course suitable for students whose futures may involve a career in health or community services or those interested in contemporary health issues. Students studying health at this level will analyse national and international health issues and ethical issues, and compare and contrast western scientific practices and traditional medicine. Students will develop a positive and responsible attitude to their personal wellbeing and care and concern for other people in their communities. Students in this course may also choose to enter the Health & Physical Education scholarship programme.

How close is Disney Princess Pocahantas to the real woman? Were the Ngā Tamatoa activists in New Zealand a bunch of trouble-makers or revolutionaries? This course will myth-bust contested histories in North America and Aotearoa by looking at the origins of inequality around the globe and the actions people have taken to fight for their rights. You will explore the complicated legacies of colonialism globally and Aotearoa through personal research projects, and wrestle with the difficulties of how nations represent the events of the past.

At Year 13 History students significantly develop their research skills, critically analyse historical debates and evaluate key historical perspectives. It is a course that pushes students to build their writing to a level that will support them into a wide range of courses at the tertiary level.

Year 13 Hospitality is an Industry Unit Standard based course which gives students skills and experiences to help prepare them for a possible future career in the Hospitality Industry. It covers Service IQ Unit Standards which covers various skills and techniques as well as catering experience. 

In this course we will explore the theme of social justice through learning in English and other subjects such as Sociology and Media Studies. This programme allows students to work at their own pace and is designed to strengthen literacy and communication skills in preparation for tertiary learning or employment. The opportunity to complete a level of the Duke of Edinburgh Award may be included in this course. 

The course is fully internally assessed and gives students the opportunity to gain two UE approved subjects. 

Integrated Studies is the equivalent of three subjects, so students also pick IS301 and IS302 in selecting courses.

The Year 13 Materials Technology course is for students who have an interest in fashion and textile design. It focuses on advanced garment construction, pattern drafting, and preparing work for exhibition or competition. The course builds on students’ existing skills in design, sewing, and construction. Students will follow the Technology Design Process, work with stakeholders, and use research and experimentation to support decision-making and refine their work. Students will design and make a complete outfit to enter into the Hokonui Fashion Design Awards, create a coat or jacket using advanced construction techniques, and develop their pattern making skills by drafting a skirt block and making adaptations. An optional external assessment is also available.

This level builds on previous ones, looking into wider implications and societal connections for a chosen genre and media industry. Students will also research readings of a media text or look at one contemporary media issue. There is some flexibility in this course so that students can opt into the standards that suit their strengths and work-loads, as long as they complete at least 14 credits.

This course is a flexible course and students work on an individual plan where they can focus on areas of strength from any of the 11 Achievement Standards offered at this level. Options include:
- solo performance
- group performance
- composition
- song-writing
- research
- analysis
- harmony
- arranging
- music works

This course involves planning, implementing and evaluating safe recreational activities in the outdoors. Students will be able to reach basic levels of proficiency as well as develop knowledge of the safety aspects in a variety of pursuits. This course is both theoretical and practical. Practical sessions involve part day, full day or multi-day activities and provide considerable opportunities for personal growth and development. All students accepted for this course must participate in all activities, including camps. Students wishing to extend their knowledge and skills of outdoor pursuits will also find the course stimulating and challenging.

Topics covered include - but are not limited to - mountain biking, tramping, outdoor first aid, bushcraft and survival skills, surfing, stand up paddleboarding, snorkeling, adventure based learning and leadership development.

The Painting course includes investigating the relationships between relevant recent painting practices and the development of ideas in a drawing study. The external 3 panel portfolio of original work demonstrates knowledge of art-making methods and ideas.

The Y13 Photography course consists of 1 internal assessment and 1 external portfolio submission.

Students begin the year building on a variety of technical skills in photography in response to a photographic investigation. Students are investigating the relationships between relevant recent photographic practices and the development of ideas in a further study. The work of established photographers is studied and applied to the student’s own work The external three-panel portfolio of original work demonstrates knowledge of photographic conventions, methods and ideas.

The course is a digitally based programme using a range of digital cameras, predominantly digital DSLR cameras. Photoshop is used for the manipulation of images and digital printing processes. Students will benefit from having access to a digital camera and access to Photoshop on their personal device to complete work outside of class time.

Arts have a small number of DSLR cameras that can be loaned out to individual students if needed.

This course draws on a broad range of biophysical and sociocultural concepts in relation to human movement. The course consists of both theory and practical components with an emphasis on learning in, through and about movement. Topics may include, but are not limited to, the impact of sport and physical activity on society, health promotion, wellbeing, sport and exercise science, performance improvement and quality movement. PE300 consists of both practical and theoretical components and provides a university entrance domain through the learning area of PE. Students in this course may also choose to enter the PE scholarship programme.

This course extends and expands on the material covered in the Level 2 course. The internal Achievement Standards involve the study of Modern Physics (there is an optional internal investigating the application of Physics to a context). The externally assessed topics cover electrical systems, mechanical systems and waves.

Students will audition for this class and work alongside 29 other students from years 11-13. This course offers music learning through being a member of WEGC's only auditioned choir, Rāwhiti.

Students will gain vocal technique, music theory, composer knowledge, language and musicianship skills and perform in many different performance contexts. Students will gain NCEA credits at a level that is appropriate to their learning level and will develop their music learning skills through performing and being a member of the choir.

A practical programme is offered in three-dimensional Visual Art. The course includes investigating the relationships between relevant recent sculptural practices and the development of ideas in a further study. Drawing is the basis for idea development, and a variety of materials are used to explore three-dimensional problem solving. The externally assessed three-panel portfolio displays original work and demonstrates knowledge of art-making methods and ideas.

Students who would benefit from additional literacy and numeracy support will be invited to join this course. This course will also include study skills, life skills, and support to engage well in their other subjects. Please speak to your Dean if you think this course could benefit you.

Throughout history people have tried to make the world we live in a better place by taking action for social justice. In this subject students will look at what makes an effective social justice campaign, examine fairness in Aotearoa, and plan and carry out a social justice action of their own.

This course enables students to build deeper critical thinking skills as they examine how different people and groups take action based upon their values and perspectives. There is a strong literacy component to this course, and students will grow their research skills through social inquiry. They will also get a chance to work as a group to implement their own action, building teamwork and organisational skills, and laying a foundation for the workplace or tertiary training.

In this course, students will be working towards achieving Te Ao Haka Achievement Standards at  Level 3. The students will be encouraged to explore the traditional art of Kapa-Haka and cultural movements on a learning experience level right through to competitive haka. There is an expectation for students in Te Ao Haka to participate in most Māori cultural performances such as Pōwhiri,and local fundraising performances in the community.

This NCEA Level 2, Level 3 combined course continues learning from NCEA Level 1. The formal assessment and learning objectives are focused on Reading & Listening Comprehension, Formal Speeches and Writing in Te Reo Māori. There is an expectation that the students should participate and be involved with as much Kaupapa Māori as possible that is conducted by the Learning Area, Tikanga and Kapa-Haka Committee at WEGC.  

This Level 3 NCEA course offers students a clear understanding of the skills and knowledge required to work in the tourism and travel sector. Students will explore the nature of the tourism industry and how it works in New Zealand, the Pacific and other locations. They will increase their awareness of travel terminology and world geography while developing skills in planning and marketing. This is not an approved subject for University Entrance.

The purpose of Wellington Trades Academy courses is to provide students with the opportunity to get a head start, continue with education and learn new skills in a variety of vocational pathways not offered within secondary schools. You will select one area of interest and attend classes either one or two days per week, whilst still attending WEGC for the other three or four days. The pathway you choose will allow you to gain credits towards NCEA and across other national qualifications within vocational pathways.

These skills will assist in preparing you for either further study in your chosen area, or entry into employment or apprenticeships. It is an exciting opportunity for you to start developing the skills and attributes that are valued by employers alongside gaining you qualifications. You are support by a tertiary provider, along with teachers at WEGC, in planning your next stage to identify what that may look like.

Students do not choose Trades Academy through the course selection process. Instead, they should contact the Careers Department for more information.

In this subject you will learn the basic principles of the "big five" faiths: Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism and Buddhism. You will visit local sites of worship during the year including a Hindu mandir, Muslim masjid, Jewish synagogue, Buddhist temple and the Sisters of Compassion. This is a secular subject. As we do look at religion in this course, it is important that students are comfortable with thinking critically about the beliefs of other faiths.

In this course, students will be working towards achieving Te Ao Haka Achievement Standards at  Level 3. The students will be encouraged to explore the traditional art of Kapa-Haka and cultural movements on a learning experience level right through to competitive haka. There is an expectation for students in Te Ao Haka to participate in most Māori cultural performances such as Pōwhiri,and local fundraising performances in the community.

This NCEA Level 2, Level 3 combined course continues learning from NCEA Level 1. The formal assessment and learning objectives are focused on Reading & Listening Comprehension, Formal Speeches and Writing in Te Reo Māori. There is an expectation that the students should participate and be involved with as much Kaupapa Māori as possible that is conducted by the Learning Area, Tikanga and Kapa-Haka Committee at WEGC.