Opihi College

This course offers a range of activities related to a variety of written, oral and visual texts. You will be required to demonstrate a high level of thinking in both written and oral responses. The Internal Assessments in this course are compulsory, and there is an expectation that you will sit at least one of the two External Examinations.

Who is this subject intended for:
This subject is compulsory for all students at Year 11. 

• English 101: Both internal and external standards - up to 20 credits offered

What you will learn in this subject:
● Skills:
In Year 11 you will build on the skills you learnt in Years 7 - 10, by analysing a variety of written and visual texts. You will learn to sustain your ideas using a range of written and oral techniques.
● Content:
The courses are based on the Making Meaning strand (Reading, Listening, Viewing) and the Creating Meaning strand (Writing, Speaking, Presenting) from the New Zealand Curriculum. You will write in a range of styles, read and respond to written and visual texts.

Where this subject will lead:
Level 2 English for students who have successfully completed English 101
Level 1 or 2 for students who have only gained their Literacy Standards.

Who is this subject intended for: This course is for students who have had some achievement at Year 10 Japanese, but more than that we are continuing the journey on the path to becoming bilingual. We know that if we remain monolingual we will stunt our educational development, restrict our communication and thinking abilities, and deny ourselves the ability to fully appreciate and understand the world in which we live. 

What you will learn in this subject: 

Skills: You will practice further the skills already learnt at Year 9 and 10 and acquire a sense of achievement in the practical use of a foreign language. Students gain confidence and motivation as their vocabulary and cultural understanding increase. 

Content: 

• Hiragana and Katakana Revision; Introduction to Kanji 
• Home and Family 
• Free Time 
• Shopping, Health, School 
• Travel 
• Japanese Culture 

Where this subject will lead: 

•Japanese Level 2 

•Now that you are a senior student, you can use your skills on the Japanese Language Study Trip to our sister city, Eniwa, Japan! 

•You will broaden your knowledge beyond cultural stereotypes and national boundaries and become more tolerant and have a positive attitude to people of different linguistic, cultural and national backgrounds. 

•You will become confident in communication with native Japanese speakers in the contexts of trade, travel, or tourism and in other professional, educational, or social situations. 

•You will broaden your employment options, both in New Zealand and internationally. 

•You will develop an awareness of the interdependence of all people.

L1 Ready for Work

Do you want to develop your skills to get ready for work when you leave school?  Then this course could be for you.  We know that employers are wanting to employ people that are resilient, hardworking, reliable, intuitive - but how do you develop those skills?  In this course you will have the opportunity to learn and develop skills that make you more ready for work.  

This course includes 

• Applications, enrolments & job-seeking skills,
•  C.V.s 
•  Self-management skills, 
• Social & community skills 
• Financial skills.
  
  This course will strengthen your literacy. You will practice and improve your ability to follow instructions, access information and explain yourself clearly. This will help you with course and job applications, skills for work and living, and law (your rights and obligations).  This is a great course which could lead onto Gateway at Level 2 or 3.

This is a specialized, year-long program designed for selected students who demonstrate a strong interest in pursuing practical agricultural and horticultural learning pathways. Entry into this course is by invitation only. Students may take this course in addition to Level 1 Agriculture. 

The Agriculture Academy course provides foundational and advanced skills in both farming and horticulture contexts. It is tailored to support students’ strengths and interests, with a strong emphasis on preparing students for on-farm and industry placements. 

Topics may include:

- Livestock handling and health observation

- Electric fencing systems and safe usage

- Chainsaw and tractor safety (theory and practical elements)

- Pasture and crop monitoring

- Soil and plant science basics

- Weed and pest management

- Agricultural tools and equipment use

- Sustainable farm practices and environmental awareness

- Horticultural planting and maintenance practices

- Irrigation and water systems

Assessment:

Students will be assessed against a range of Unit Standards from the Primary Industries Training Organisation (PITO), focusing on practical, real-world competencies. A typical student may complete between 20 to 40 credits throughout the year, depending on ability, engagement, and placement involvement.

Entry Requirements: 

Please only select this course if you have been invited to join the Agriculture Academy by Mr Mills.

Level 1 Agriculture Course

This course is designed for students eager to deepen their theoretical knowledge and practical skills in Agriculture and Horticulture, with a focus on real-world applications. Students will cover a range of topics across Level 1 Achievement Standards and Level 2 Unit Standards, offering at least 20 credits. These may include things like small engines, tractors, fencing, pruning and spraying, working with livestock and health and safety. 

Throughout the year, students will work on real farming and horticultural projects, building essential skills that are directly applicable to future careers in these industries. This course is perfect for students who learn best by doing and want to take their skills to the next level. 

Students may take this course in addition to the Level 1 Agriculture Academy, which is invitation only. 

Who is this subject intended for:
This subject would suit those students who are interested in the Visual Arts and who are keen to develop their skills while completing a significant body of work. 

Students need to have good work habits and be prepared to develop their own creativity while following a structured programme.

At Level 1 in Visual Arts,  ākonga participate actively and authentically in a visual inquiry. Ākonga will use the visual arts process, materials and techniques to record visual and cultural elements from an Aotearoa New Zealand Māori context. Through recording, experiencing, and reflecting, ākonga will develop a deeper understanding of how artworks are made, viewed, and valued. 

What You Will Learn in This Subject:

●Skills:
You will have the opportunity to use practice-based visual inquiry to explore an Aotearoa New Zealand Māori context and other cultural contexts. 

You will explore visual arts processes and conventions to inform your own art making.

You will build research using a range of media, creating a significant body of work. 

●Content:
Use drawing methods and skills for recording information using wet and dry media.
Use drawing conventions to develop work in more than one field of practice.
Produce a body of work informed by established practice which develops ideas, using a range of media.
Produce a finished work that demonstrates skills appropriate to cultural conventions.

Design and Visual Communication (DVC) focuses on communicating ideas and precise information through drawing. DVC still retains most of the technical drawing skills but has an emphasis on design process, creativity and individual choices. The flexibility of design briefs provided by the course, allows all students to explore different areas and levels of design and drawing. DVC involves a rich variety of learning experiences leading to a wide range of career opportunities, including all the design fields, Engineering, Architecture and Drafting. To develop a rich variety of learning experiences that will lead to a wide range of career opportunities, including all the design fields, Engineering, Architecture, Drafting, Product and Spatial. Course will include instrumental working drawings, freehand sketching, rendering and presentation of work, design process, evaluation and research, pictorial instrumental drawing and design principles.

Who is this subject intended for:
This subject will best suit those students who enjoy working through design ideas and have a certain sense of creativity. Students taking this subject will need to enjoy drawing as well as using computers to create completed design ideas as well as explaining how things work and go together. DVC students will need to be reasonably neat and enjoy taking a pride in their work.

At the HOF/teachers discretion, new students to this subject may do a full internal assessment course.

What you will learn in this subject:
●Skills:
You will continue to develop the skills that you have had a taste of in either or both Year 9 and 10. You will learn to develop both freehand sketching and formal drawing techniques and will explore different ways of presenting your design work.
●Content:
○Product design
○Architectural and Environmental Design
○Design Presentation
○Understanding Design
○Exploring the Work of Famous Designers

Where this subject will lead:
Level 2 NCEA Design and Visual Communication

Who is this subject intended for:
Anyone who has a passion for computer programming and digital design.

What you will learn in this subject:

The aim of this course is to give students skills in designing and developing digital outcomes, programming, and presenting information digitally in a variety of forms.

Course content

The main topics studied will be the following:

• Students will learn the principles of design and apply these using printed and web based materials.
• Students will develop skills and understanding of html and css to create a multi-page website
• Students will develop skills and understanding of programming.

Student interested will be taken into account. Robotics may be an option if students have a particular interest.  

Where this subject will lead:
Digital Technologies Level 2. To enhance technological skills and career opportunities in the future.

This course offers a range of activities related to a variety of written, oral and visual texts. You will be required to demonstrate a high level of thinking in both written and oral responses. The Internal Assessments in this course are compulsory, and there is an expectation that you will sit at least one of the two External Examinations.

Who is this subject intended for:
This subject is compulsory for all students at Year 11. 

• English 101: Both internal and external standards - up to 20 credits offered

What you will learn in this subject:
● Skills:
In Year 11 you will build on the skills you learnt in Years 7 - 10, by analysing a variety of written and visual texts. You will learn to sustain your ideas using a range of written and oral techniques.
● Content:
The courses are based on the Making Meaning strand (Reading, Listening, Viewing) and the Creating Meaning strand (Writing, Speaking, Presenting) from the New Zealand Curriculum. You will write in a range of styles, read and respond to written and visual texts.

Where this subject will lead:
Level 2 English for students who have successfully completed English 101
Level 1 or 2 for students who have only gained their Literacy Standards.

This course is a combination of some Geography standards and some History standards.

Who is this subject intended for:
This course is for students who have an interest in people and places and who want to understand the changing world around them. It also deals with the past by connecting students with the wider world as they develop their own identities and sense of place.

What you will learn in this subject:
●Skills:
Transferable skills including thinking; writing; conducting inquiry; exploring values; goal setting; plus, interpreting and constructing visuals such as graphs and maps. You will use both human and physical geography to study the distribution of volcanoes around the world and tourism at Mt Cook.

History is a research-based subject where the skills of inquiry will be fully developed. You will be able to interpret and understand a wide range of resources and to communicate effectively in different ways. The course should help you to become confident around questioning as well as to develop empathy for others.

•Content:
To help understand how the natural environment works, you will learn about the causes and effects of volcanoes with a focus on NZ and the Pacific Ring of Fire.

Where this subject will lead:
Skills: Geography/History will help you develop an increasing awareness of your responsibilities towards other people and to the environment. The course will set you up with the foundation skills and knowledge to advance to higher levels of Geography and History. You will gain credits towards NCEA with all standards counting towards literacy and some towards numeracy. 

Who is this subject intended for:
This course is available for all year 11 students who are interested in a career in any Health promoting sector. Both internal and external achievement standards are available, 10 credits internal, 10 external.

What you will learn in this subject:
Health is a valued subject where students learn about themselves, their identity, strengths and attributes in a safe and inclusive environment. This course aims to establish relationships and understanding for students to become knowledgeable and reflective about their personal health and well-being, while gaining mana and confidence to grow into a resilient and strong individual. These objectives accommodate other curriculum subjects such as Physical Education, English and Te Ao Māori. This course is an influential platform for the students to be engaged with New Zealand’s multicultural society.

Health Promotion:
Health promotion requires involvement of all members surrounding an individual (students, teachers, whānau, and other community members). In this course, students will use health promotion techniques to learn and teach others about safe and healthy environments. Through acknowledging socio-ecological perspectives and the ability to implement multiple attitudes and values, students will learn about the different affects society has on them, other people and their wider community.

Where this subject will lead:
Students interested in health promotion careers such as nursing, youth workers, community/social workers, physical education, teaching, counselling, nutrition and more.

Health Life Skills

This course is for students who are interested in improving their health and well-being with real, applicable life skills.

Topics covered:

• Strategies for dealing with cyber-bullying
• Self management skills
• Improving personal well-being
• Understanding the impact of drugs and alcohol
• Resilience skills

There are up 15 Unit Standards available for this course.

Who is this subject intended for:
This course is designed to assist students to continue to extend their knowledge and skills developed from Year 10. This course is for students who have a keen interest in learning and applying these skills to planning and preparing food for themselves as well as others.

What you will learn in this subject:
●Skills:
Practice further and extend the skills already learnt at Year 9 and 10 and acquire a sense of achievement in the practical application of preparing and cooking food. Students gain confidence and motivation as their skills are extended.
●Content: some or all of the following will be covered(dependent upon the student needs)
○Safe food handling practices and strategies.
○Interpreting and applying food and nutritional information.
○ Basic cookery skills


Where this subject will lead:
Gaining credits towards NCEA Level 1 and on towards gaining entry into the Level 2 and 3 Food and Hospitality course. This subject can lead to employment or career opportunities in the Food Hospitality industry.

Who is this subject intended for: This course is for students who have had some achievement at Year 10 Japanese, but more than that we are continuing the journey on the path to becoming bilingual. We know that if we remain monolingual we will stunt our educational development, restrict our communication and thinking abilities, and deny ourselves the ability to fully appreciate and understand the world in which we live. 

What you will learn in this subject: 

Skills: You will practice further the skills already learnt at Year 9 and 10 and acquire a sense of achievement in the practical use of a foreign language. Students gain confidence and motivation as their vocabulary and cultural understanding increase. 

Content: 

• Hiragana and Katakana Revision; Introduction to Kanji 
• Home and Family 
• Free Time 
• Shopping, Health, School 
• Travel 
• Japanese Culture 

Where this subject will lead: 

•Japanese Level 2 

•Now that you are a senior student, you can use your skills on the Japanese Language Study Trip to our sister city, Eniwa, Japan! 

•You will broaden your knowledge beyond cultural stereotypes and national boundaries and become more tolerant and have a positive attitude to people of different linguistic, cultural and national backgrounds. 

•You will become confident in communication with native Japanese speakers in the contexts of trade, travel, or tourism and in other professional, educational, or social situations. 

•You will broaden your employment options, both in New Zealand and internationally. 

•You will develop an awareness of the interdependence of all people.

In Year 11 Materials Technology, the focus will be on carpentry and the completion of Level 1 BCATS standards. 

Who is this subject for?

This subject is intended for those students who enjoy working in a practical workshop environment with the focus on wood and metal as materials. 

What will you learn in this subject?

The purpose of this course is to lay a good, solid foundation in the building and construction industry. It will prepare you to confidently complete larger and more complicated projects at level 2. You will learn to read basic working drawings, prepare cutting lists and orders as well as how to keep a basic work diary. The main focus, however, will be on ensuring that you gain a wide variety of skills as you’re given the opportunity to complete the following standards (Lvl 1: 19 Credits):

• 24352 - Safe Working Practices (Lvl 1: Credits 2)
• 24355 - Materials (Lvl 1: Credits 4)
• 24356 - Workshop Procedures and Processes (Lvl 1: Credits 8)
• 25919 - Hardware (Lvl 1: Credits 2)
• 25920 - Joints (Lvl 1: Credits 3)

*Extension projects and credits may be available to those students who complete work ahead of schedule and show a high level of competency and understanding.

Where will this subject lead?

This subject leads on to Year 12 Materials Technology where the focus will be on completing carpentry focused Level 2 BCATS standards. It would be great advantage to complete the Level 1 course before attempting Level 2. 

Year 11 Mathematics is a compulsory course for all students.  This course offers a strong academic grounding across the fields of Geometry, Statistics, Algebra and Probability. There is an opportunity to choose between an Internally assessed course or a mixed course of Internals and Externals.

Who is this subject intended for:
This course is for all Year 11 students

What you will learn in this subject:
This course covers a wide range of mathematical topics:
Number, Graphs, Measurement, Statistics and Probability.
Students will also learn to communicate their thinking and conclusions clearly.

Where this subject will lead:
Students who are successful in this course will be well prepared to take Maths 201.

Who is this subject intended for:

In this subject, ākonga can develop confidence in their ability to express themselves creatively and emotionally through making original music and performing to an audience. Ākonga may work both independently and collaboratively as they continually develop their craft through feedback, reflection, and dedication.

What you will learn in this subject:

• experience the creative process of music as an individual and in collaboration with others
• develop skills of the craft independently and in collaboration with others
• reflect on how music projects contribute to communities, depending on whether they are developed independently or in collaboration with others
• think about how they are engaging with the wider music community and cultivating shared music experiences
• develop understanding of the impact music can have on their own feelings and wellbeing
• develop the ability to complete successful music projects
• build confidence in upholding the integrity of their musical output

This course is for students who are looking to develop their practical skills alongside their interpersonal skills and improve their overall well-being.  Students will have the opportunity to complete both Achievement Standards and Unit Standards to experience success.

What you will learn:

Students will learn a variety of skills including understanding kotahitanga skill application, hauora, sports psychology principles, resilience concepts and outdoor education activities.  Students will have the opportunity to participate on day and overnight tramps/camps, kayak and high ropes.

Where this subject will lead:
Many vocations based on Sport, Recreation and Community needs.

L1 Ready for Work

Do you want to develop your skills to get ready for work when you leave school?  Then this course could be for you.  We know that employers are wanting to employ people that are resilient, hardworking, reliable, intuitive - but how do you develop those skills?  In this course you will have the opportunity to learn and develop skills that make you more ready for work.  

This course includes 

• Applications, enrolments & job-seeking skills,
•  C.V.s 
•  Self-management skills, 
• Social & community skills 
• Financial skills.
  
  This course will strengthen your literacy. You will practice and improve your ability to follow instructions, access information and explain yourself clearly. This will help you with course and job applications, skills for work and living, and law (your rights and obligations).  This is a great course which could lead onto Gateway at Level 2 or 3.

This subject is highly recommended for all Year 11 students. This course will cover a range of topics for students to get a broad foundation of Science. This will include:

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Physics
• Earth Space Science

We will be offering up to 16 internal credits and 5 external credits.  There will be a mixture of practical and theory work.

Where this subject will lead:

Further study: Level 2 Biology, Chemistry, Physics and General Science.

Employment: Success in Level 1 Science is valued by employers and can be used to gain technical jobs and apprenticeships.

Who is this subject intended for:
This course aims to create an opportunity for students to achieve a qualification in Te Reo Māori that will provide the building blocks for future success in their studies.

What you will learn in this subject:
Students will build on what they have learned in Years 9 and 10 and increase their confidence and knowledge as a speaker of Te Reo, by
○talking about events and facts in the past, present and future
○talking about feelings, ideas, opinions; what you can and cannot do, likes and dislikes
○describing yourself and others, home, work, school and leisure environments in depth
○making comparisons and contrasts
○giving directions, instructions, suggestions and orders

•Possible Topics:
Ko mātou ko tōku whānau (Me and my family)
Ki te kāinga (At home)
Tangata Rongonui (Famous people)
Hui Marae (Marae gatherings)
Haerenga (Travel)
Ko te ao Taiohi (The world of youth)

This is a new course being offered at NCEA Level 1, 2 and 3.

Te Ao Haka is a culturally responsive art form, providing opportunities for all ākonga to engage in Māori culture, language and traditional practice. Te Ao Haka is founded on traditional knowledge, but is progressive in the development and evolution of the art form.

Intrinsic to Te Ao Haka are culture, language and identity. Te Ao Haka is a vehicle used to wānanga and communicate culture, tikanga, knowledge systems and iwi traditions. Te Ao Haka is enabling and centres around the importance of family, marae, iwi, hapū and waka through connection with the past, present and future. This belonging gives ākonga a purpose to strive towards and achieve to their full potential, including empowering them to have fun and enjoy the performing arts.

Ākonga who engage with Te Ao Haka recognise that pride in their culture also comes with a responsibility to create a positive space for others to continue expressing themselves in developing their craft. Therefore, ākonga are able to understand their contributions to the art form.

Te Ao Haka offers a variety of opportunities for students to nurture and grow their leadership skills. Te Ao Haka requires and supports many different types of leadership, both on and off stage. This gives ākonga the chance to explore and exemplify leadership.

Supported Learning

This course is designed for students who have been identified as needing some extra support with learning.  Students will work on Supported Learning Standards to earn Unit Standards towards either NCEA or a Supported Learning Qualification.

The course focuses on practical skills including:

• Everyday numeracy skills
• Everyday literacy skills
• Communication skills
• Goal setting
• Personal Health 
• Conflict resolution.

Who is this subject intended for:

Students who meet the criteria described in the 'General Information' area can apply to take courses offered by the online learning services in Canterbury, Otago and Southland.

NetNZ and Te Kura courses run subject to sufficient interest levels (e.g discuss a backup plan!)

NetNZ course details are available at http://netnz.org under ‘Courses”


Science
Languages
Technology
Social Science
Biology - L2, L3
Te Reo Maori - L1 (Beg & full), L2, L3
Computer Science - L3
Philosophy
Chemistry - L2, L3
Chinese/Chinese Studies - Beginner(Y9), Pre NCEA (Y10), L1, L2 L3
Y7&8 An introduction to China & Chinese
Digital Technologies - L1, L2
Classical Studies - L2, L3
Physics - L2, L3
Japanese/Japanese Studies - Beginner(Y9), Pre NCEA (Y10), L1, L2 L3
Y7&8 An introduction to Japan & Japanese
Design and Visual Communication
Geography - L1, L2, L3
Electronics & Electrical Engineering - L2 (& 3)
Korean/Korean Studies - Beginner(Y9), Pre NCEA (Y10), L1, L2 L3
Y7&8 An introduction to Korea & Korean
Robotics - L1, L2
History - L1. L2, L3
Agricultural & Horticultural Science / Agribusiness - L2, L3
French - L1, L2, L3
Web Design - L3
Media Studies - L2 & L3
Agriculture (Telford) - L2, L3
German - Beginners, L1, L2
The Arts
Psychology L2, L3 - tbc
Equine Studies (Telford) - L2/3
Samoan - L1, L2, L3
Art History - L2, L3
Social Studies - L3
Maths
Spanish - Beginners, L1, L2, L3
Photography - L2, L3
Accounting - L1, L2, L3
Calculus - L3
Tongan - Beginner, L1-3
Drama - L1, L2, L3
Business Studies - L2
Statistics -L3
Health and Physical Education
Maori Performing Arts - L1
Economics - L1, L2, L3
Mathematics - L3
Physical Education - L2, L3
Performance Music - L1, L2, L3

Students must write proposed subject when selecting this course.

Level 1 Agriculture Course

This course is designed for students eager to deepen their theoretical knowledge and practical skills in Agriculture and Horticulture, with a focus on real-world applications. Students will cover a range of topics across Level 1 Achievement Standards and Level 2 Unit Standards, offering at least 20 credits. These may include things like small engines, tractors, fencing, pruning and spraying, working with livestock and health and safety. 

Throughout the year, students will work on real farming and horticultural projects, building essential skills that are directly applicable to future careers in these industries. This course is perfect for students who learn best by doing and want to take their skills to the next level. 

Students may take this course in addition to the Level 1 Agriculture Academy, which is invitation only. 

Who is this subject intended for:
This subject would suit those students who are interested in the Visual Arts and who are keen to develop their skills while completing a significant body of work. 

Students need to have good work habits and be prepared to develop their own creativity while following a structured programme.

At Level 1 in Visual Arts,  ākonga participate actively and authentically in a visual inquiry. Ākonga will use the visual arts process, materials and techniques to record visual and cultural elements from an Aotearoa New Zealand Māori context. Through recording, experiencing, and reflecting, ākonga will develop a deeper understanding of how artworks are made, viewed, and valued. 

What You Will Learn in This Subject:

●Skills:
You will have the opportunity to use practice-based visual inquiry to explore an Aotearoa New Zealand Māori context and other cultural contexts. 

You will explore visual arts processes and conventions to inform your own art making.

You will build research using a range of media, creating a significant body of work. 

●Content:
Use drawing methods and skills for recording information using wet and dry media.
Use drawing conventions to develop work in more than one field of practice.
Produce a body of work informed by established practice which develops ideas, using a range of media.
Produce a finished work that demonstrates skills appropriate to cultural conventions.

Design and Visual Communication (DVC) focuses on communicating ideas and precise information through drawing. DVC still retains most of the technical drawing skills but has an emphasis on design process, creativity and individual choices. The flexibility of design briefs provided by the course, allows all students to explore different areas and levels of design and drawing. DVC involves a rich variety of learning experiences leading to a wide range of career opportunities, including all the design fields, Engineering, Architecture and Drafting. To develop a rich variety of learning experiences that will lead to a wide range of career opportunities, including all the design fields, Engineering, Architecture, Drafting, Product and Spatial. Course will include instrumental working drawings, freehand sketching, rendering and presentation of work, design process, evaluation and research, pictorial instrumental drawing and design principles.

Who is this subject intended for:
This subject will best suit those students who enjoy working through design ideas and have a certain sense of creativity. Students taking this subject will need to enjoy drawing as well as using computers to create completed design ideas as well as explaining how things work and go together. DVC students will need to be reasonably neat and enjoy taking a pride in their work.

At the HOF/teachers discretion, new students to this subject may do a full internal assessment course.

What you will learn in this subject:
●Skills:
You will continue to develop the skills that you have had a taste of in either or both Year 9 and 10. You will learn to develop both freehand sketching and formal drawing techniques and will explore different ways of presenting your design work.
●Content:
○Product design
○Architectural and Environmental Design
○Design Presentation
○Understanding Design
○Exploring the Work of Famous Designers

Where this subject will lead:
Level 2 NCEA Design and Visual Communication

Who is this subject intended for:
Anyone who has a passion for computer programming and digital design.

What you will learn in this subject:

The aim of this course is to give students skills in designing and developing digital outcomes, programming, and presenting information digitally in a variety of forms.

Course content

The main topics studied will be the following:

• Students will learn the principles of design and apply these using printed and web based materials.
• Students will develop skills and understanding of html and css to create a multi-page website
• Students will develop skills and understanding of programming.

Student interested will be taken into account. Robotics may be an option if students have a particular interest.  

Where this subject will lead:
Digital Technologies Level 2. To enhance technological skills and career opportunities in the future.

This course offers a range of activities related to a variety of written, oral and visual texts. You will be required to demonstrate a high level of thinking in both written and oral responses. The Internal Assessments in this course are compulsory, and there is an expectation that you will sit at least one of the two External Examinations.

Who is this subject intended for:
This subject is compulsory for all students at Year 11. 

• English 101: Both internal and external standards - up to 20 credits offered

What you will learn in this subject:
● Skills:
In Year 11 you will build on the skills you learnt in Years 7 - 10, by analysing a variety of written and visual texts. You will learn to sustain your ideas using a range of written and oral techniques.
● Content:
The courses are based on the Making Meaning strand (Reading, Listening, Viewing) and the Creating Meaning strand (Writing, Speaking, Presenting) from the New Zealand Curriculum. You will write in a range of styles, read and respond to written and visual texts.

Where this subject will lead:
Level 2 English for students who have successfully completed English 101
Level 1 or 2 for students who have only gained their Literacy Standards.

This course is a combination of some Geography standards and some History standards.

Who is this subject intended for:
This course is for students who have an interest in people and places and who want to understand the changing world around them. It also deals with the past by connecting students with the wider world as they develop their own identities and sense of place.

What you will learn in this subject:
●Skills:
Transferable skills including thinking; writing; conducting inquiry; exploring values; goal setting; plus, interpreting and constructing visuals such as graphs and maps. You will use both human and physical geography to study the distribution of volcanoes around the world and tourism at Mt Cook.

History is a research-based subject where the skills of inquiry will be fully developed. You will be able to interpret and understand a wide range of resources and to communicate effectively in different ways. The course should help you to become confident around questioning as well as to develop empathy for others.

•Content:
To help understand how the natural environment works, you will learn about the causes and effects of volcanoes with a focus on NZ and the Pacific Ring of Fire.

Where this subject will lead:
Skills: Geography/History will help you develop an increasing awareness of your responsibilities towards other people and to the environment. The course will set you up with the foundation skills and knowledge to advance to higher levels of Geography and History. You will gain credits towards NCEA with all standards counting towards literacy and some towards numeracy. 

Who is this subject intended for:
This course is available for all year 11 students who are interested in a career in any Health promoting sector. Both internal and external achievement standards are available, 10 credits internal, 10 external.

What you will learn in this subject:
Health is a valued subject where students learn about themselves, their identity, strengths and attributes in a safe and inclusive environment. This course aims to establish relationships and understanding for students to become knowledgeable and reflective about their personal health and well-being, while gaining mana and confidence to grow into a resilient and strong individual. These objectives accommodate other curriculum subjects such as Physical Education, English and Te Ao Māori. This course is an influential platform for the students to be engaged with New Zealand’s multicultural society.

Health Promotion:
Health promotion requires involvement of all members surrounding an individual (students, teachers, whānau, and other community members). In this course, students will use health promotion techniques to learn and teach others about safe and healthy environments. Through acknowledging socio-ecological perspectives and the ability to implement multiple attitudes and values, students will learn about the different affects society has on them, other people and their wider community.

Where this subject will lead:
Students interested in health promotion careers such as nursing, youth workers, community/social workers, physical education, teaching, counselling, nutrition and more.

Health Life Skills

This course is for students who are interested in improving their health and well-being with real, applicable life skills.

Topics covered:

• Strategies for dealing with cyber-bullying
• Self management skills
• Improving personal well-being
• Understanding the impact of drugs and alcohol
• Resilience skills

There are up 15 Unit Standards available for this course.

Who is this subject intended for:
This course is designed to assist students to continue to extend their knowledge and skills developed from Year 10. This course is for students who have a keen interest in learning and applying these skills to planning and preparing food for themselves as well as others.

What you will learn in this subject:
●Skills:
Practice further and extend the skills already learnt at Year 9 and 10 and acquire a sense of achievement in the practical application of preparing and cooking food. Students gain confidence and motivation as their skills are extended.
●Content: some or all of the following will be covered(dependent upon the student needs)
○Safe food handling practices and strategies.
○Interpreting and applying food and nutritional information.
○ Basic cookery skills


Where this subject will lead:
Gaining credits towards NCEA Level 1 and on towards gaining entry into the Level 2 and 3 Food and Hospitality course. This subject can lead to employment or career opportunities in the Food Hospitality industry.

Who is this subject intended for: This course is for students who have had some achievement at Year 10 Japanese, but more than that we are continuing the journey on the path to becoming bilingual. We know that if we remain monolingual we will stunt our educational development, restrict our communication and thinking abilities, and deny ourselves the ability to fully appreciate and understand the world in which we live. 

What you will learn in this subject: 

Skills: You will practice further the skills already learnt at Year 9 and 10 and acquire a sense of achievement in the practical use of a foreign language. Students gain confidence and motivation as their vocabulary and cultural understanding increase. 

Content: 

• Hiragana and Katakana Revision; Introduction to Kanji 
• Home and Family 
• Free Time 
• Shopping, Health, School 
• Travel 
• Japanese Culture 

Where this subject will lead: 

•Japanese Level 2 

•Now that you are a senior student, you can use your skills on the Japanese Language Study Trip to our sister city, Eniwa, Japan! 

•You will broaden your knowledge beyond cultural stereotypes and national boundaries and become more tolerant and have a positive attitude to people of different linguistic, cultural and national backgrounds. 

•You will become confident in communication with native Japanese speakers in the contexts of trade, travel, or tourism and in other professional, educational, or social situations. 

•You will broaden your employment options, both in New Zealand and internationally. 

•You will develop an awareness of the interdependence of all people.

In Year 11 Materials Technology, the focus will be on carpentry and the completion of Level 1 BCATS standards. 

Who is this subject for?

This subject is intended for those students who enjoy working in a practical workshop environment with the focus on wood and metal as materials. 

What will you learn in this subject?

The purpose of this course is to lay a good, solid foundation in the building and construction industry. It will prepare you to confidently complete larger and more complicated projects at level 2. You will learn to read basic working drawings, prepare cutting lists and orders as well as how to keep a basic work diary. The main focus, however, will be on ensuring that you gain a wide variety of skills as you’re given the opportunity to complete the following standards (Lvl 1: 19 Credits):

• 24352 - Safe Working Practices (Lvl 1: Credits 2)
• 24355 - Materials (Lvl 1: Credits 4)
• 24356 - Workshop Procedures and Processes (Lvl 1: Credits 8)
• 25919 - Hardware (Lvl 1: Credits 2)
• 25920 - Joints (Lvl 1: Credits 3)

*Extension projects and credits may be available to those students who complete work ahead of schedule and show a high level of competency and understanding.

Where will this subject lead?

This subject leads on to Year 12 Materials Technology where the focus will be on completing carpentry focused Level 2 BCATS standards. It would be great advantage to complete the Level 1 course before attempting Level 2. 

Year 11 Mathematics is a compulsory course for all students.  This course offers a strong academic grounding across the fields of Geometry, Statistics, Algebra and Probability. There is an opportunity to choose between an Internally assessed course or a mixed course of Internals and Externals.

Who is this subject intended for:
This course is for all Year 11 students

What you will learn in this subject:
This course covers a wide range of mathematical topics:
Number, Graphs, Measurement, Statistics and Probability.
Students will also learn to communicate their thinking and conclusions clearly.

Where this subject will lead:
Students who are successful in this course will be well prepared to take Maths 201.

Who is this subject intended for:

In this subject, ākonga can develop confidence in their ability to express themselves creatively and emotionally through making original music and performing to an audience. Ākonga may work both independently and collaboratively as they continually develop their craft through feedback, reflection, and dedication.

What you will learn in this subject:

• experience the creative process of music as an individual and in collaboration with others
• develop skills of the craft independently and in collaboration with others
• reflect on how music projects contribute to communities, depending on whether they are developed independently or in collaboration with others
• think about how they are engaging with the wider music community and cultivating shared music experiences
• develop understanding of the impact music can have on their own feelings and wellbeing
• develop the ability to complete successful music projects
• build confidence in upholding the integrity of their musical output

This course is for students who are looking to develop their practical skills alongside their interpersonal skills and improve their overall well-being.  Students will have the opportunity to complete both Achievement Standards and Unit Standards to experience success.

What you will learn:

Students will learn a variety of skills including understanding kotahitanga skill application, hauora, sports psychology principles, resilience concepts and outdoor education activities.  Students will have the opportunity to participate on day and overnight tramps/camps, kayak and high ropes.

Where this subject will lead:
Many vocations based on Sport, Recreation and Community needs.

L1 Ready for Work

Do you want to develop your skills to get ready for work when you leave school?  Then this course could be for you.  We know that employers are wanting to employ people that are resilient, hardworking, reliable, intuitive - but how do you develop those skills?  In this course you will have the opportunity to learn and develop skills that make you more ready for work.  

This course includes 

• Applications, enrolments & job-seeking skills,
•  C.V.s 
•  Self-management skills, 
• Social & community skills 
• Financial skills.
  
  This course will strengthen your literacy. You will practice and improve your ability to follow instructions, access information and explain yourself clearly. This will help you with course and job applications, skills for work and living, and law (your rights and obligations).  This is a great course which could lead onto Gateway at Level 2 or 3.

This subject is highly recommended for all Year 11 students. This course will cover a range of topics for students to get a broad foundation of Science. This will include:

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Physics
• Earth Space Science

We will be offering up to 16 internal credits and 5 external credits.  There will be a mixture of practical and theory work.

Where this subject will lead:

Further study: Level 2 Biology, Chemistry, Physics and General Science.

Employment: Success in Level 1 Science is valued by employers and can be used to gain technical jobs and apprenticeships.

Who is this subject intended for:
This course aims to create an opportunity for students to achieve a qualification in Te Reo Māori that will provide the building blocks for future success in their studies.

What you will learn in this subject:
Students will build on what they have learned in Years 9 and 10 and increase their confidence and knowledge as a speaker of Te Reo, by
○talking about events and facts in the past, present and future
○talking about feelings, ideas, opinions; what you can and cannot do, likes and dislikes
○describing yourself and others, home, work, school and leisure environments in depth
○making comparisons and contrasts
○giving directions, instructions, suggestions and orders

•Possible Topics:
Ko mātou ko tōku whānau (Me and my family)
Ki te kāinga (At home)
Tangata Rongonui (Famous people)
Hui Marae (Marae gatherings)
Haerenga (Travel)
Ko te ao Taiohi (The world of youth)

This is a new course being offered at NCEA Level 1, 2 and 3.

Te Ao Haka is a culturally responsive art form, providing opportunities for all ākonga to engage in Māori culture, language and traditional practice. Te Ao Haka is founded on traditional knowledge, but is progressive in the development and evolution of the art form.

Intrinsic to Te Ao Haka are culture, language and identity. Te Ao Haka is a vehicle used to wānanga and communicate culture, tikanga, knowledge systems and iwi traditions. Te Ao Haka is enabling and centres around the importance of family, marae, iwi, hapū and waka through connection with the past, present and future. This belonging gives ākonga a purpose to strive towards and achieve to their full potential, including empowering them to have fun and enjoy the performing arts.

Ākonga who engage with Te Ao Haka recognise that pride in their culture also comes with a responsibility to create a positive space for others to continue expressing themselves in developing their craft. Therefore, ākonga are able to understand their contributions to the art form.

Te Ao Haka offers a variety of opportunities for students to nurture and grow their leadership skills. Te Ao Haka requires and supports many different types of leadership, both on and off stage. This gives ākonga the chance to explore and exemplify leadership.

This is a specialized, year-long program designed for selected students who demonstrate a strong interest in pursuing practical agricultural and horticultural learning pathways. Entry into this course is by invitation only. Students may take this course in addition to Level 2 Agriculture. 

The Agriculture Academy course provides foundational and advanced skills in both farming and horticulture contexts. It is tailored to support students’ strengths and interests, with a strong emphasis on preparing students for on-farm and industry placements. 

Topics may include:

- Livestock handling and health observation

- Electric fencing systems and safe usage

- Chainsaw and tractor safety (theory and practical elements)

- Pasture and crop monitoring

- Soil and plant science basics

- Weed and pest management

- Agricultural tools and equipment use

- Sustainable farm practices and environmental awareness

- Horticultural planting and maintenance practices

- Irrigation and water systems

Assessment:

Students will be assessed against a range of Unit Standards from the Primary Industries Training Organisation (PITO), focusing on practical, real-world competencies. A typical student may complete between 20 to 40 credits throughout the year, depending on ability, engagement, and placement involvement.

Entry Requirements: 

Please only select this course if you have been invited to join the Agriculture Academy by Mr Mills.

This course is designed for students eager to deepen their theoretical knowledge and practical skills in Agriculture and Horticulture, with a focus on real-world applications. Students will cover a range of topics across Level 2 Unit Standards, offering at least 20 credits. These may include things like small engines, tractors, fencing, pruning and spraying, working with livestock and health and safety. 

There is also the opportunity to cover Level 2 Achievement Standards if students are interested in pursuing an academic pathway in Agriculture. This will be by negotiation between the student, their whānau and the Teacher in Charge. 

Throughout the year, students will work on real farming and horticultural projects, building essential skills that are directly applicable to future careers in these industries. This course is perfect for students who learn best by doing and want to take their skills to the next level. 

Students may take this course in addition to the Level 2 Agriculture Academy, which is invitation only.

What you will learn in this subject:
This class teaches a process-based approach to making art, covering the technical aspects of painting, design or photography, looking at how the processes and functions inform the strategy of making art; at how the medium or technique exists as the means to realise an idea.

Course Components:
Use model Artists to inform your work
Develop your techniques so that you can bring your creativity to its full potential
Develop a Portfolio for NCEA submission

Where this subject will lead:
Build a broad skill base in several artistic techniques to move into the Opihi College Level 3 Art program.
Creativity and lateral thinking leads to enhanced skills in almost any field.

Who is this subject intended for:

Students who have completed Level 1 Science or at teacher’s discretion.

What you will learn in this subject:

Biology is all about the living world around us - humans and other animals, plants and microorganisms. We will look at these organisms at every level, from ecosystems, populations and individuals, to the microscopic and cellular levels. Students are also given opportunities to develop investigative, research and critical thinking skills. 

Where this subject will lead:

Level 3 Biology and then onto science-based university or Polytechnic courses. Students will also gain a range of skills and knowledge that are applicable to apprenticeships and employment, particularly careers relating to humans, animals or plants. 

Who is this subject intended for:

Students who have completed Level 1 Science, or at the HOF's discretion.

What you will learn in this subject:

Students are given opportunities to develop investigative, research and critical thinking skills

Content:

• Investigations
• Volumetric Analysis
• Qualitative Analysis
• Structures and Bonding
• Redox
• Organic Chemistry
• Research

Where this subject will lead:
Level 3 Chemistry or pre-entry university courses, also to polytechnic courses such as Science Technician, Vet Nursing etc.

Who is this subject intended for: While there is no prerequisite for Level 2 DVC, some experience in the subject would be a distinct advantage. However, the key requirements for DVC are a love of drawing and design and a desire to have success through hard work. 

What you will learn in this subject: 

Skills: The key skills you will learn or develop in Level 2 DVC are firstly those of drawing. Freehand sketching to quickly explore and develop ideas is a foundation of the course. As well, more formal drawing methods are explored and developed along with the use of Computer technologies to help complete design solutions. 

Content: 

• Drawing Skills 
• Product Design 
• Architectural and Environmental Design 
• Design Presentation 
• Appreciation and understanding of Design and Designers 

Where this subject will lead: DVC Level 3 and University Scholarship. The Level 2 course may also lead some students toward tertiary diploma courses in various areas of design. However, most higher level study has a level 3 entry requirement. Various options should be discussed with your Careers Advisor.

Who is this subject intended for:
Anyone who has a passion for developing digital outcomes, computer programming or has passed Level 1 Digital Technologies. Good literacy skills are recommended to successfully complete this course. This course is challenging and the workload has the potential to be high.

What you will learn in this subject:
The aim of this course is to build on skills learnt at level one in computer science, programming and web design. 

Students have the choice to focus on programming and computer science or media and design at this level. 

The key concepts covered in this course are - Computer Science, Digital Design, Media Outcomes and computer programming. A substantial project will be completed as part of the course learning. The context is focused on developing a Digital Media or Programming solution. Electronics may be an option depending on student interest. 

Where this subject will lead:
Digital Technologies Level 3.
Studying digital technologies will enhance your career opportunities in the future. For those interested in a Computer Science career it will help you to develop your specialist knowledge.

Who is this subject intended for:
•English 201: Both internal and external standards - ten standards are available but it is expected that students will be offered and attempt, no more than 18 credits.
•English 202: Achievement standards, and / or Communication Skills standards - students will be offered 15-18 credits, all of which are internally assessed.

Students who wish to study at University MUST gain UE Literacy (5 reading and 5 writing credits) in order to attain their University Entrance. These Literacy credits may be gained through selected Level 2 or 3 English standards and from other Level 2/3 subjects.


What you will learn in this subject:
●Skills:
Year 12 builds on the skills you learnt and developed in Year 11.
●Content:
The course is based on the Making Meaning strand (Reading, Listening, Viewing) and the Creating Meaning strand (Writing, Speaking, Presenting) from the New Zealand Curriculum. You will write in a range of styles, read and analyse written and visual texts, create a visual text and deliver a speech to gain both internal and external credits.

Where this subject will lead:
Passing English at Level 2 may give you the Literacy credits required for UE literacy and will provide the foundation for study at Level 3 and beyond school.

L2 Financial Literacy

This course is designed to give our students some real life skills which involve financial literacy.  They will look at various topics including 

• Bank accounts and services,  budgeting 
• Borrowing, credit and debt
• Savings and investment including kiwi saver 
• Insurance, income and tax and aspects that you will come across when you leave school

This course is a Unit Standard based course and is not an approved University Entrance course.  It is highly recommended for any Year 12 or 13 students that have not gained Numeracy.

Who is this subject intended for:
Gateway aims to build students’ skills for employment, working in real workplaces on real tasks. It provides opportunities to try out potential careers and build links to Industry Training Organisations, modern apprenticeships and workplaces. It is a ‘hands on’ practical course. Due to the help offered by our local business community to run this programme, students need to be ‘work ready’; reliable, trustworthy, organised and respectful as they represent our school community. Applications and interviews with students, parents and employers are an important part of the Gateway programme.

What you will learn in this subject:
●Skills:
This subject builds on the students’ current skills within structured workplace learning. An emphasis is placed on building work skills relevant to career choices. The pre-Gateway programme (Term 1) places emphasis on identifying personal skills confirming career options and developing a broader understanding of the adult work environment through courses like Workplace Safety and Comprehensive First Aid.
●Content:
Gateway offers a hands on practical Level 2 and Level 3 Unit Standards course. All pre-Gateway students will complete the compulsory units of Workplace Safety, First Aid, Fire Safety, Job Readiness and then will work with Mrs Shaw, Gateway Coordinator to create their own personalised Gateway programme. Depending on the area of career interest, students will have the opportunity of work experience once a week and complete workplace unit standards which offer credits. Note: Students are required to complete a minimum of 15 days work placement as part of their Gateway Contract.

Where this subject will lead:
As Gateway opens a new pathway from school to the world of work, the student is able to blend their school study with their workplace learning and experience. This learning is assessed at school and in the workplace and can count towards other national qualifications (for example, Retail) or be counted towards their NCEA Level 2 or Level 3 Certificate. This programme of study also intends to help the student towards tertiary study (Polytechnic) or work in their chosen field the following year.

Who is this subject intended for:

Students who have taken Level 1 Science, or at the HOF's discretion.

What you will learn in this subject:

Skills:

Students are given opportunities to develop investigative, research and critical thinking skills.

Content:

• Physics
• Earth and Space Science
• Education for Sustainability
• Biology

Where this subject will lead:

Further study: Level 3 Science. Polytechnic or University courses. Employment: Success in Level 2 Science is valued by employers and can be used to gain technical jobs and apprenticeships.

Who is this subject intended for:
This course is for students who want to make sense of a complex and changing world and their place in it- to develop a deeper understanding of people and places and the connections between each. It is also for students who are interested in understanding why things are the way they are, using studies of people, places and events of the past to help explain the present. Our heritage helps define who we are so it is important to look back as well as to look forward.

 
What you will learn in this subject:
●Skills:
Transferable skills such as critical thinking; inquiry / research; writing; exploring values; goal setting; interpreting and constructing visuals such as graphs and maps, the ability to interpret and understand a wide range of resource material; how to communicate clearly and effectively using a range of written and oral presentation methods. Essay writing is a key skill that you will develop. 

●Content:
Topics that support two main branches of the subject- Physical and Human Geography- will be studied. You will develop an understanding of the natural environment of the South Island High Country with a field trip to Mt Cook for three days. An investigation into into the geographical issue of 1080. You will also look at a global issue of Malaria, identifying the causes and the effect this has on people and places.

For the History course you will visit Akaroa on a 3 day field trip to investigate a significant event in NZ History.  Topics include the Musket Wars and Akaroa Massacres, the French Settlement and the lives of Whalers and Sealers.

Who this subject is intended for:
This course is to provide students with the necessary information, motivation and behavioural skills to make informed decisions about their health and well-being at a personal, interpersonal and societal level. This is an Achievement Standards based course and leads to University Entrance.

What you will learn in this subject:

The purpose of this course is to provide students with the necessary information, motivation, and behavioural skills to make informed decisions about their health and well-being at a personal, interpersonal and societal level. Students will develop understanding of the World Health Organisation (WHO) concept of ‘determinants of health’, which provides a progressive understanding in more detail of the factors that influence well-being. This course will provide students with knowledge, strategies and support to minimize the risks and increase awareness of issues they will face in society and future aspirations. These skills and strategies are important, as acknowledging different perspective, beliefs and values is an integral part of each person’s identity. This course involves taking action to enhance personal well-being, influences on adolescent health issues, evaluation of factors that influences people’s ability to manage change, take action within the school and community, analyse interpersonal and personal safety and issues we face around sexuality and gender in today’s society. This course will promote students to gain confidence, resiliency, positive relationships and cultural awareness. Students will develop in an inclusive environment, where they are flourish into role models and leaders that will have a positive impact on our school, community and future society.

Where this subject will lead:

Counselling, Social-worker, Nurse, Doctor, Teacher, Health science, retail, trades and more

L2 Health Skills

This course is aimed at students who are interested in improving their health and well-being with real, applicable life skills.

There are up to 15 Unit Standards on offer in this course.

Topics covered:

• Time management
• Managing Stress
• Problem Solving
• Understanding and responding to sexual harassment
• Negotiation skills
• Recognising discrimination

Who is this subject intended for: Students who have a passion for developing their skills in this subject area. This course may also lead to a career pathway in the Food or Hospitality industry. 

What you will learn in this subject: 

Skills: Students who complete this course will gain credits towards NCEA Level 2 or above whilst also developing skills which they will be able to use in the Food or Hospitality industry. 

Content: 

• Food safety and personal hygiene in a commercial kitchen. 
• Food service. 
• Advanced knife skills and food preparation techniques. 
• Creativity with food preparation and service. 
• STAR funded courses may also be available. 

Where this subject will lead: Gaining credits towards NCEA Level 2 and on towards gaining entry into the Level 3 Food and Hospitality course. This subject can lead to employment or career opportunities in the Food and Nutrition or Hospitality industry. 

Information: We have the opportunity to tailor a course to suit the needs of each student. The main focus of this course is to prepare students for food and hospitality in industry. Students may also opt for Achievement Standards in Technology and Home Economics curriculum.

Who is this subject intended for: Now that you have made the two-year investment in learning Japanese and you have found some success with Level 1, you need to stay the course. You’re not done yet. You’ve made a great start, but in order to internalize your language and culture learning and reap the benefits later in life, you need to continue. Language learning takes time and repetition to become part of you and will be lost if you stop now. 

What you will learn in this subject: 

Skills: Students will develop an understanding of and fluency in the language, through emphasis on activities which involve everyday written and spoken Japanese. 

Content: 

• Continued Kanji Study 
• Family Life 
• Eating & Drinking 
• The Japanese School System 
• Leisure Activities 
• Japanese Culture 

Where this subject will lead: 

•Japanese Level 3 

•As well as the school trip to Japan, you could participate in the Timaru District Sister City Student Exchange in Eniwa, Hokkaido. 

•To enhance overseas travel and career opportunities such as: 

            Tourism – tour guide, coach driver, travel agent, outdoor recreation guide 

            Government – immigration officer, customs officer 

            Business – importer/exporter, customs broker For further information visit the Opihi College Japanese Department website.

In Materials Technology, the focus will be on carpentry again and the completion of Level 2 BCATS standards. 

Who is this subject for?

This subject is intended for those students who enjoy working in a practical workshop environment and are considering entering the trades after school. It is advised that students would have completed all standards at Level 1 before attempting this course (but it is not a prerequisite). A solid work ethic and good self-management skills would be a great advantage.

What will you learn in this subject?

This course will further develop the knowledge and skills gained at Level 1 and help you to gain more independence with decision making and problem-solving in the workshop environment. It will also assist you in practicing good documentation skills which is very important at Level 3 and beyond. The main focus will be on ensuring that you gain a high level of skill and competency as you’re given the opportunity to complete the following standards (Lvl 2: 29 credits):

• 12932 - Garden Furniture (Lvl 2: Credits 8)
• 24354 - Safe working practices (Lvl 2: Credits 4)
• 24350 - Portable Power Tools (Lvl 2: Credits 6)
• 24351 - Fixed Machinery (Lvl 2: Credits 6)
• 24360 - Materials (Lvl 2: Credits 5)

Where will this subject lead?

This subject leads on to Year 13 Materials Technology (Level 3 BCATS) or other tertiary trades training institutions. It may also open doors to apprenticeships in a variety of career opportunities. 

MATHEMATICS 201
Who is this subject intended for:
Students who have completed Mathematics 101 successfully.

What you will learn in this subject:
Through this course students will continue to develop algebraic and graphical skills as well as encounter the new ideas of calculus (a topic essential for higher study in physical sciences or engineering). The course also covers aspects of statistics and probability. Assessment will be through Level 2 Achievement Standards including three externals in algebra, calculus and probability. There is flexibility in this course and some students may choose to take a fully internally assessed course.

Where this subject will lead:
This course is good preparation for studying mathematics at Level 3. It provides essential support knowledge for students wishing to study science or engineering

MATHEMATICS 202
Who is this subject intended for:
Students who have gained their Numeracy Credits in Level 1 Mathematics course and wish to extend their mathematical knowledge.

What you will learn in this subject:
This course will provide an opportunity for students to attempt a less academic Mathematics course with more of an internal assessment focus. Included in the course is a Level 2 Budgeting standard. Students will still have the opportunity to sit the Level 2 Probability External

Where this subject will lead:
This course will help students become more confident in their use of mathematics in their own life and in the work place. It may prepare students for studying courses at polytechnic. However, students who wish to continue their study of Mathematics at school will need to take Maths 201 before studying the subject at Level 3.

The Level 2 Music course builds on the skills developed at Level 1.
A selection from the following are studied:

Making Music
● solo and group performance
Music Studies
● instrumentation
● score reading/ conventions used in music scores
● music works(study of two main works, including a comparison of these contrasting works, one of which will be a New Zealand work)
● investigation

Assessment:
Internal (5 Achievement Standards offered)
• 2.1: Solo performance (6 credits)
• 2.2: Solo performance on a second instrument (3 credits)
• 2.3: Group performance (4 credits)
• 2.8: Instrumentation for an ensemble (4 credits)
• 2.9: Investigate an aspect of NZ music - 4 credits
External (2 Achievement Standards offered)
• 2.6: Conventions used in music scores (4 credits)
• 2.7: Music works (6 credits)

For students interested in practical learning and group activities.  Following on from the learning completed in Level 1 PE.  Students need a good attitude and willingness to get involved.

What you will learn in this subject:

Students will learn how to self manage, communicate with a group and the basic safety associated with Physical Education and Outdoor Education.

Students will complete a range of Achievement and Unit Standards to achieve approximately 20 credits

Where this subject will lead:

Careers in Sport, recreation, physiotherapy, teaching and health science professions.

Who is this subject intended for:
Students who have achieved a sufficient number of credits in Te Reo Māori NCEA L1.

What you will learn in this subject:
●Skills:
Students will continue to increase confidence and develop fluency in Te Reo Māori by learning to:
○communicate about future plans
○offer and respond to advice, warnings and suggestions
○express and respond to approval and disapproval, agreement and disagreement
○offer and respond to information and opinions, giving reasons
○read about and recount actual or imagined events in the past


•Possible topics covered:
○Pakiwaitara (Myths and Legends)
○Tangihanga (Cultural funeral practices)
○Ngā wawata taiohi (Future aspirations for youth)
○Ngā take o te wā mō ngā taiohi (Current issues for youth)

Where this subject will lead:
Te Reo Māori Level 3. To enhance possible career opportunities requiring knowledge in Te Reo Māori me ōna Tikanga.

Level 2 Tourism – 2026

Ready to explore the world of tourism? Our Level 2 Tourism course is your next step into one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing industries. Designed for students who have successfully completed their Literacy and Numeracy co-requisite and are ready to take on more independent learning, this course offers a solid foundation in travel, tourism, and customer service.

With up to 15 Unit Standards available, students will work toward earning key NZQA credits, including:

• US 33211 – Demonstrate knowledge of New Zealand as a tourist destination
• US 24728 – Demonstrate knowledge of work roles in tourism
• US 24729 – Demonstrate knowledge of world tourist destinations
• US 24731 – Demonstrate knowledge of destination New Zealand

You will develop the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in tourism-related careers or move into further study at Level 3. The course encourages self-management, initiative, and real-world thinking — perfect for students ready to step up and explore their future in travel and tourism.

In this Materials Technology course, the focus will be on carpentry related Level 3 BCATS standards. 

Who is this subject for?

Completion of Level 2 BCATS standards are a prerequisite. This subject is aimed toward those students who are seriously considering a career in the trades or heading into trades training after school. Strong self-management skills, the ability to make independent decisions and to act responsibly in the workshop is also required.

What will you learn in this subject?

Students will design, develop and complete a suitable project in consultation with the teacher. This process should allow students the opportunity to complete a range of standards listed below (Lvl 3: 40 credits).

• US 29684 - Undertake a Stage 3 BCATS project (12 credits)
• US 29677 - Follow safe workplace practices, and contribute to a health and safety culture, in a BCATS environment (2 credits)
• US 29678 - Demonstrate knowledge of, select, and use materials for a Stage 3 BCATS project (4 credits)
• US 29679 - Develop and use BCATS project documentation for a Stage 3 BCATS project (8 credits)
• US 29680 - Communicate and work collaboratively in a Stage 3 BCATS project (5 credits)
• US 29681 - Measure and calculate for a Stage 3 BCATS project (3 credits)
• US 29682 - Select, use, and maintain tools, equipment and machinery for a Stage 3 BCATS project (4 credits)
• US 29683 - Incorporate other building, construction and allied trades into a Stage 3 BCATS project schedule (2 credits)

Where will this subject lead?

This subject may lead into tertiary trades training or a wide range of job- and career opportunities.

Supported Learning

This course is designed for students who have been identified as needing some extra support with learning.  Students will work on Supported Learning Standards to earn Unit Standards towards either NCEA or a Supported Learning Qualification.

The course focuses on practical skills including:

• Everyday numeracy skills
• Everyday literacy skills
• Communication skills
• Goal setting
• Personal Health 
• Conflict resolution.

Who is this subject intended for:

Students who meet the criteria described in the 'General Information' area can apply to take courses offered by the online learning services in Canterbury, Otago and Southland.

NetNZ and Te Kura courses run subject to sufficient interest levels (e.g discuss a backup plan!)

NetNZ course details are available at http://netnz.org under ‘Courses”


Science
Languages
Technology
Social Science
Biology - L2, L3
Te Reo Maori - L1 (Beg & full), L2, L3
Computer Science - L3
Philosophy
Chemistry - L2, L3
Chinese/Chinese Studies - Beginner(Y9), Pre NCEA (Y10), L1, L2 L3
Y7&8 An introduction to China & Chinese
Digital Technologies - L1, L2
Classical Studies - L2, L3
Physics - L2, L3
Japanese/Japanese Studies - Beginner(Y9), Pre NCEA (Y10), L1, L2 L3
Y7&8 An introduction to Japan & Japanese
Design and Visual Communication
Geography - L1, L2, L3
Electronics & Electrical Engineering - L2 (& 3)
Korean/Korean Studies - Beginner(Y9), Pre NCEA (Y10), L1, L2 L3
Y7&8 An introduction to Korea & Korean
Robotics - L1, L2
History - L1. L2, L3
Agricultural & Horticultural Science / Agribusiness - L2, L3
French - L1, L2, L3
Web Design - L3
Media Studies - L2 & L3
Agriculture (Telford) - L2, L3
German - Beginners, L1, L2
The Arts
Psychology L2, L3 - tbc
Equine Studies (Telford) - L2/3
Samoan - L1, L2, L3
Art History - L2, L3
Social Studies - L3
Maths
Spanish - Beginners, L1, L2, L3
Photography - L2, L3
Accounting - L1, L2, L3
Calculus - L3
Tongan - Beginner, L1-3
Drama - L1, L2, L3
Business Studies - L2
Statistics -L3
Health and Physical Education
Maori Performing Arts - L1
Economics - L1, L2, L3
Mathematics - L3
Physical Education - L2, L3
Performance Music - L1, L2, L3

Students must write proposed subject when selecting this course.

Level 1 Agriculture Course

This course is designed for students eager to deepen their theoretical knowledge and practical skills in Agriculture and Horticulture, with a focus on real-world applications. Students will cover a range of topics across Level 1 Achievement Standards and Level 2 Unit Standards, offering at least 20 credits. These may include things like small engines, tractors, fencing, pruning and spraying, working with livestock and health and safety. 

Throughout the year, students will work on real farming and horticultural projects, building essential skills that are directly applicable to future careers in these industries. This course is perfect for students who learn best by doing and want to take their skills to the next level. 

Students may take this course in addition to the Level 1 Agriculture Academy, which is invitation only. 

Who is this subject intended for:
This course aims to create an opportunity for students to achieve a qualification in Te Reo Māori that will provide the building blocks for future success in their studies.

What you will learn in this subject:
Students will build on what they have learned in Years 9 and 10 and increase their confidence and knowledge as a speaker of Te Reo, by
○talking about events and facts in the past, present and future
○talking about feelings, ideas, opinions; what you can and cannot do, likes and dislikes
○describing yourself and others, home, work, school and leisure environments in depth
○making comparisons and contrasts
○giving directions, instructions, suggestions and orders

•Possible Topics:
Ko mātou ko tōku whānau (Me and my family)
Ki te kāinga (At home)
Tangata Rongonui (Famous people)
Hui Marae (Marae gatherings)
Haerenga (Travel)
Ko te ao Taiohi (The world of youth)

This is a new course being offered at NCEA Level 1, 2 and 3.

Te Ao Haka is a culturally responsive art form, providing opportunities for all ākonga to engage in Māori culture, language and traditional practice. Te Ao Haka is founded on traditional knowledge, but is progressive in the development and evolution of the art form.

Intrinsic to Te Ao Haka are culture, language and identity. Te Ao Haka is a vehicle used to wānanga and communicate culture, tikanga, knowledge systems and iwi traditions. Te Ao Haka is enabling and centres around the importance of family, marae, iwi, hapū and waka through connection with the past, present and future. This belonging gives ākonga a purpose to strive towards and achieve to their full potential, including empowering them to have fun and enjoy the performing arts.

Ākonga who engage with Te Ao Haka recognise that pride in their culture also comes with a responsibility to create a positive space for others to continue expressing themselves in developing their craft. Therefore, ākonga are able to understand their contributions to the art form.

Te Ao Haka offers a variety of opportunities for students to nurture and grow their leadership skills. Te Ao Haka requires and supports many different types of leadership, both on and off stage. This gives ākonga the chance to explore and exemplify leadership.

What you will learn in this subject:
This class teaches a process-based approach to making art, covering the technical aspects of painting, design or photography, looking at how the processes and functions inform the strategy of making art; at how the medium or technique exists as the means to realise an idea.

Course Components:
Use model Artists to inform your work
Develop your techniques so that you can bring your creativity to its full potential
Develop a Portfolio for NCEA submission

Where this subject will lead:
Build a broad skill base in several artistic techniques to move into the Opihi College Level 3 Art program.
Creativity and lateral thinking leads to enhanced skills in almost any field.

Who is this subject intended for:

Students who have completed Level 1 Science or at teacher’s discretion.

What you will learn in this subject:

Biology is all about the living world around us - humans and other animals, plants and microorganisms. We will look at these organisms at every level, from ecosystems, populations and individuals, to the microscopic and cellular levels. Students are also given opportunities to develop investigative, research and critical thinking skills. 

Where this subject will lead:

Level 3 Biology and then onto science-based university or Polytechnic courses. Students will also gain a range of skills and knowledge that are applicable to apprenticeships and employment, particularly careers relating to humans, animals or plants. 

Who is this subject intended for:

Students who have completed Level 1 Science, or at the HOF's discretion.

What you will learn in this subject:

Students are given opportunities to develop investigative, research and critical thinking skills

Content:

• Investigations
• Volumetric Analysis
• Qualitative Analysis
• Structures and Bonding
• Redox
• Organic Chemistry
• Research

Where this subject will lead:
Level 3 Chemistry or pre-entry university courses, also to polytechnic courses such as Science Technician, Vet Nursing etc.

Who is this subject intended for: While there is no prerequisite for Level 2 DVC, some experience in the subject would be a distinct advantage. However, the key requirements for DVC are a love of drawing and design and a desire to have success through hard work. 

What you will learn in this subject: 

Skills: The key skills you will learn or develop in Level 2 DVC are firstly those of drawing. Freehand sketching to quickly explore and develop ideas is a foundation of the course. As well, more formal drawing methods are explored and developed along with the use of Computer technologies to help complete design solutions. 

Content: 

• Drawing Skills 
• Product Design 
• Architectural and Environmental Design 
• Design Presentation 
• Appreciation and understanding of Design and Designers 

Where this subject will lead: DVC Level 3 and University Scholarship. The Level 2 course may also lead some students toward tertiary diploma courses in various areas of design. However, most higher level study has a level 3 entry requirement. Various options should be discussed with your Careers Advisor.

Who is this subject intended for:
Anyone who has a passion for developing digital outcomes, computer programming or has passed Level 1 Digital Technologies. Good literacy skills are recommended to successfully complete this course. This course is challenging and the workload has the potential to be high.

What you will learn in this subject:
The aim of this course is to build on skills learnt at level one in computer science, programming and web design. 

Students have the choice to focus on programming and computer science or media and design at this level. 

The key concepts covered in this course are - Computer Science, Digital Design, Media Outcomes and computer programming. A substantial project will be completed as part of the course learning. The context is focused on developing a Digital Media or Programming solution. Electronics may be an option depending on student interest. 

Where this subject will lead:
Digital Technologies Level 3.
Studying digital technologies will enhance your career opportunities in the future. For those interested in a Computer Science career it will help you to develop your specialist knowledge.

Who is this subject intended for:
•English 201: Both internal and external standards - ten standards are available but it is expected that students will be offered and attempt, no more than 18 credits.
•English 202: Achievement standards, and / or Communication Skills standards - students will be offered 15-18 credits, all of which are internally assessed.

Students who wish to study at University MUST gain UE Literacy (5 reading and 5 writing credits) in order to attain their University Entrance. These Literacy credits may be gained through selected Level 2 or 3 English standards and from other Level 2/3 subjects.


What you will learn in this subject:
●Skills:
Year 12 builds on the skills you learnt and developed in Year 11.
●Content:
The course is based on the Making Meaning strand (Reading, Listening, Viewing) and the Creating Meaning strand (Writing, Speaking, Presenting) from the New Zealand Curriculum. You will write in a range of styles, read and analyse written and visual texts, create a visual text and deliver a speech to gain both internal and external credits.

Where this subject will lead:
Passing English at Level 2 may give you the Literacy credits required for UE literacy and will provide the foundation for study at Level 3 and beyond school.

L2 Financial Literacy

This course is designed to give our students some real life skills which involve financial literacy.  They will look at various topics including 

• Bank accounts and services,  budgeting 
• Borrowing, credit and debt
• Savings and investment including kiwi saver 
• Insurance, income and tax and aspects that you will come across when you leave school

This course is a Unit Standard based course and is not an approved University Entrance course.  It is highly recommended for any Year 12 or 13 students that have not gained Numeracy.

Who is this subject intended for:
Gateway aims to build students’ skills for employment, working in real workplaces on real tasks. It provides opportunities to try out potential careers and build links to Industry Training Organisations, modern apprenticeships and workplaces. It is a ‘hands on’ practical course. Due to the help offered by our local business community to run this programme, students need to be ‘work ready’; reliable, trustworthy, organised and respectful as they represent our school community. Applications and interviews with students, parents and employers are an important part of the Gateway programme.

What you will learn in this subject:
●Skills:
This subject builds on the students’ current skills within structured workplace learning. An emphasis is placed on building work skills relevant to career choices. The pre-Gateway programme (Term 1) places emphasis on identifying personal skills confirming career options and developing a broader understanding of the adult work environment through courses like Workplace Safety and Comprehensive First Aid.
●Content:
Gateway offers a hands on practical Level 2 and Level 3 Unit Standards course. All pre-Gateway students will complete the compulsory units of Workplace Safety, First Aid, Fire Safety, Job Readiness and then will work with Mrs Shaw, Gateway Coordinator to create their own personalised Gateway programme. Depending on the area of career interest, students will have the opportunity of work experience once a week and complete workplace unit standards which offer credits. Note: Students are required to complete a minimum of 15 days work placement as part of their Gateway Contract.

Where this subject will lead:
As Gateway opens a new pathway from school to the world of work, the student is able to blend their school study with their workplace learning and experience. This learning is assessed at school and in the workplace and can count towards other national qualifications (for example, Retail) or be counted towards their NCEA Level 2 or Level 3 Certificate. This programme of study also intends to help the student towards tertiary study (Polytechnic) or work in their chosen field the following year.

Who is this subject intended for:

Students who have taken Level 1 Science, or at the HOF's discretion.

What you will learn in this subject:

Skills:

Students are given opportunities to develop investigative, research and critical thinking skills.

Content:

• Physics
• Earth and Space Science
• Education for Sustainability
• Biology

Where this subject will lead:

Further study: Level 3 Science. Polytechnic or University courses. Employment: Success in Level 2 Science is valued by employers and can be used to gain technical jobs and apprenticeships.

Who is this subject intended for:
This course is for students who want to make sense of a complex and changing world and their place in it- to develop a deeper understanding of people and places and the connections between each. It is also for students who are interested in understanding why things are the way they are, using studies of people, places and events of the past to help explain the present. Our heritage helps define who we are so it is important to look back as well as to look forward.

 
What you will learn in this subject:
●Skills:
Transferable skills such as critical thinking; inquiry / research; writing; exploring values; goal setting; interpreting and constructing visuals such as graphs and maps, the ability to interpret and understand a wide range of resource material; how to communicate clearly and effectively using a range of written and oral presentation methods. Essay writing is a key skill that you will develop. 

●Content:
Topics that support two main branches of the subject- Physical and Human Geography- will be studied. You will develop an understanding of the natural environment of the South Island High Country with a field trip to Mt Cook for three days. An investigation into into the geographical issue of 1080. You will also look at a global issue of Malaria, identifying the causes and the effect this has on people and places.

For the History course you will visit Akaroa on a 3 day field trip to investigate a significant event in NZ History.  Topics include the Musket Wars and Akaroa Massacres, the French Settlement and the lives of Whalers and Sealers.

Who this subject is intended for:
This course is to provide students with the necessary information, motivation and behavioural skills to make informed decisions about their health and well-being at a personal, interpersonal and societal level. This is an Achievement Standards based course and leads to University Entrance.

What you will learn in this subject:

The purpose of this course is to provide students with the necessary information, motivation, and behavioural skills to make informed decisions about their health and well-being at a personal, interpersonal and societal level. Students will develop understanding of the World Health Organisation (WHO) concept of ‘determinants of health’, which provides a progressive understanding in more detail of the factors that influence well-being. This course will provide students with knowledge, strategies and support to minimize the risks and increase awareness of issues they will face in society and future aspirations. These skills and strategies are important, as acknowledging different perspective, beliefs and values is an integral part of each person’s identity. This course involves taking action to enhance personal well-being, influences on adolescent health issues, evaluation of factors that influences people’s ability to manage change, take action within the school and community, analyse interpersonal and personal safety and issues we face around sexuality and gender in today’s society. This course will promote students to gain confidence, resiliency, positive relationships and cultural awareness. Students will develop in an inclusive environment, where they are flourish into role models and leaders that will have a positive impact on our school, community and future society.

Where this subject will lead:

Counselling, Social-worker, Nurse, Doctor, Teacher, Health science, retail, trades and more

L2 Health Skills

This course is aimed at students who are interested in improving their health and well-being with real, applicable life skills.

There are up to 15 Unit Standards on offer in this course.

Topics covered:

• Time management
• Managing Stress
• Problem Solving
• Understanding and responding to sexual harassment
• Negotiation skills
• Recognising discrimination

Who is this subject intended for: Students who have a passion for developing their skills in this subject area. This course may also lead to a career pathway in the Food or Hospitality industry. 

What you will learn in this subject: 

Skills: Students who complete this course will gain credits towards NCEA Level 2 or above whilst also developing skills which they will be able to use in the Food or Hospitality industry. 

Content: 

• Food safety and personal hygiene in a commercial kitchen. 
• Food service. 
• Advanced knife skills and food preparation techniques. 
• Creativity with food preparation and service. 
• STAR funded courses may also be available. 

Where this subject will lead: Gaining credits towards NCEA Level 2 and on towards gaining entry into the Level 3 Food and Hospitality course. This subject can lead to employment or career opportunities in the Food and Nutrition or Hospitality industry. 

Information: We have the opportunity to tailor a course to suit the needs of each student. The main focus of this course is to prepare students for food and hospitality in industry. Students may also opt for Achievement Standards in Technology and Home Economics curriculum.

Who is this subject intended for: Now that you have made the two-year investment in learning Japanese and you have found some success with Level 1, you need to stay the course. You’re not done yet. You’ve made a great start, but in order to internalize your language and culture learning and reap the benefits later in life, you need to continue. Language learning takes time and repetition to become part of you and will be lost if you stop now. 

What you will learn in this subject: 

Skills: Students will develop an understanding of and fluency in the language, through emphasis on activities which involve everyday written and spoken Japanese. 

Content: 

• Continued Kanji Study 
• Family Life 
• Eating & Drinking 
• The Japanese School System 
• Leisure Activities 
• Japanese Culture 

Where this subject will lead: 

•Japanese Level 3 

•As well as the school trip to Japan, you could participate in the Timaru District Sister City Student Exchange in Eniwa, Hokkaido. 

•To enhance overseas travel and career opportunities such as: 

            Tourism – tour guide, coach driver, travel agent, outdoor recreation guide 

            Government – immigration officer, customs officer 

            Business – importer/exporter, customs broker For further information visit the Opihi College Japanese Department website.

In Materials Technology, the focus will be on carpentry again and the completion of Level 2 BCATS standards. 

Who is this subject for?

This subject is intended for those students who enjoy working in a practical workshop environment and are considering entering the trades after school. It is advised that students would have completed all standards at Level 1 before attempting this course (but it is not a prerequisite). A solid work ethic and good self-management skills would be a great advantage.

What will you learn in this subject?

This course will further develop the knowledge and skills gained at Level 1 and help you to gain more independence with decision making and problem-solving in the workshop environment. It will also assist you in practicing good documentation skills which is very important at Level 3 and beyond. The main focus will be on ensuring that you gain a high level of skill and competency as you’re given the opportunity to complete the following standards (Lvl 2: 29 credits):

• 12932 - Garden Furniture (Lvl 2: Credits 8)
• 24354 - Safe working practices (Lvl 2: Credits 4)
• 24350 - Portable Power Tools (Lvl 2: Credits 6)
• 24351 - Fixed Machinery (Lvl 2: Credits 6)
• 24360 - Materials (Lvl 2: Credits 5)

Where will this subject lead?

This subject leads on to Year 13 Materials Technology (Level 3 BCATS) or other tertiary trades training institutions. It may also open doors to apprenticeships in a variety of career opportunities. 

MATHEMATICS 201
Who is this subject intended for:
Students who have completed Mathematics 101 successfully.

What you will learn in this subject:
Through this course students will continue to develop algebraic and graphical skills as well as encounter the new ideas of calculus (a topic essential for higher study in physical sciences or engineering). The course also covers aspects of statistics and probability. Assessment will be through Level 2 Achievement Standards including three externals in algebra, calculus and probability. There is flexibility in this course and some students may choose to take a fully internally assessed course.

Where this subject will lead:
This course is good preparation for studying mathematics at Level 3. It provides essential support knowledge for students wishing to study science or engineering

MATHEMATICS 202
Who is this subject intended for:
Students who have gained their Numeracy Credits in Level 1 Mathematics course and wish to extend their mathematical knowledge.

What you will learn in this subject:
This course will provide an opportunity for students to attempt a less academic Mathematics course with more of an internal assessment focus. Included in the course is a Level 2 Budgeting standard. Students will still have the opportunity to sit the Level 2 Probability External

Where this subject will lead:
This course will help students become more confident in their use of mathematics in their own life and in the work place. It may prepare students for studying courses at polytechnic. However, students who wish to continue their study of Mathematics at school will need to take Maths 201 before studying the subject at Level 3.

The Level 2 Music course builds on the skills developed at Level 1.
A selection from the following are studied:

Making Music
● solo and group performance
Music Studies
● instrumentation
● score reading/ conventions used in music scores
● music works(study of two main works, including a comparison of these contrasting works, one of which will be a New Zealand work)
● investigation

Assessment:
Internal (5 Achievement Standards offered)
• 2.1: Solo performance (6 credits)
• 2.2: Solo performance on a second instrument (3 credits)
• 2.3: Group performance (4 credits)
• 2.8: Instrumentation for an ensemble (4 credits)
• 2.9: Investigate an aspect of NZ music - 4 credits
External (2 Achievement Standards offered)
• 2.6: Conventions used in music scores (4 credits)
• 2.7: Music works (6 credits)

For students interested in practical learning and group activities.  Following on from the learning completed in Level 1 PE.  Students need a good attitude and willingness to get involved.

What you will learn in this subject:

Students will learn how to self manage, communicate with a group and the basic safety associated with Physical Education and Outdoor Education.

Students will complete a range of Achievement and Unit Standards to achieve approximately 20 credits

Where this subject will lead:

Careers in Sport, recreation, physiotherapy, teaching and health science professions.

Who is this subject intended for:
Students who have achieved a sufficient number of credits in Te Reo Māori NCEA L1.

What you will learn in this subject:
●Skills:
Students will continue to increase confidence and develop fluency in Te Reo Māori by learning to:
○communicate about future plans
○offer and respond to advice, warnings and suggestions
○express and respond to approval and disapproval, agreement and disagreement
○offer and respond to information and opinions, giving reasons
○read about and recount actual or imagined events in the past


•Possible topics covered:
○Pakiwaitara (Myths and Legends)
○Tangihanga (Cultural funeral practices)
○Ngā wawata taiohi (Future aspirations for youth)
○Ngā take o te wā mō ngā taiohi (Current issues for youth)

Where this subject will lead:
Te Reo Māori Level 3. To enhance possible career opportunities requiring knowledge in Te Reo Māori me ōna Tikanga.

Level 2 Tourism – 2026

Ready to explore the world of tourism? Our Level 2 Tourism course is your next step into one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing industries. Designed for students who have successfully completed their Literacy and Numeracy co-requisite and are ready to take on more independent learning, this course offers a solid foundation in travel, tourism, and customer service.

With up to 15 Unit Standards available, students will work toward earning key NZQA credits, including:

• US 33211 – Demonstrate knowledge of New Zealand as a tourist destination
• US 24728 – Demonstrate knowledge of work roles in tourism
• US 24729 – Demonstrate knowledge of world tourist destinations
• US 24731 – Demonstrate knowledge of destination New Zealand

You will develop the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in tourism-related careers or move into further study at Level 3. The course encourages self-management, initiative, and real-world thinking — perfect for students ready to step up and explore their future in travel and tourism.

L3 Agriculture and Horticulture

This course is designed for students eager to deepen their theoretical knowledge and practical skills in Agriculture and Horticulture, with a focus on real-world applications. Students will cover a range of topics across Level 3 Unit Standards, offering at least 20 credits. These may include things like small engines, tractors, fencing, pruning and spraying, working with livestock and health and safety. 

There is also the opportunity to cover Level 3 Achievement Standards if students are interested in pursuing an academic pathway in Agriculture. This will be by negotiation between the student, their whānau and the Teacher in Charge. Unfortunately we are unable to offer University Entrance in this subject. 

Throughout the year, students will work on real farming and horticultural projects, building essential skills that are directly applicable to future careers in these industries. This course is perfect for students who learn best by doing and want to take their skills to the next level.

Who is this subject intended for:
Those students who complete a successful folder at Level 2 or students who have achieved success at Level 2Art

What you will learn in this subject:
●Skill:
At Level 3 you must be an independent worker and able to learn from contemporary models and assimilate these conventions into your work. You will learn that creating work is a process that provides you with the information you need to complete your work successfully.
●Content:
o Analyse methods and ideas from established practice.
o Use drawing to demonstrate understanding of conventions appropriate to different artistic styles.
o Produce a systematic body of work
o Produce a resolved work that demonstrates purposeful control of skills appropriate to visual arts contexts.

Who is this subject intended for:
Students who have completed Level 2 Biology or at teacher’s discretion.

What you will learn in this subject: This course focuses on students investigating and developing their understanding of the living world.  It covers aspects of human evolution, investigating plant and animal physiology, genetic modification, homeostasis, human anatomy/physiology and current Biological issues, such as Covid-19 and 1080.  Student will be provided with opportunities to develop their investigate skills through field work.

Where this subject will lead:

Science-based university or Polytechnic courses e.g. Nursing, Midwifery, Medicine, Physiotherapy, Vet Science, Anatomy, Biological Anthropology, Genetics, Biochemistry, Microbiology. Students will also gain a range of skills and knowledge that are applicable to apprenticeships and employment, particularly careers relating to humans, animals or plants.

Who is this subject intended for:
Students who have completed Level 2 Chemistry, or at the HOF's discretion.

What you will learn in this subject:
Students are given opportunities to develop investigative, research and critical thinking skills

Content:

• Investigations
• Volumetric Analysis
• Structures and Bonding
• Redox
• Research

Where this subject will lead:

Science courses at university level e.g. Medical Sciences, Biological Sciences, Forensics etc.

Who is this subject intended for: While there is no prerequisite for Level 3 DVC, some experience in the subject would be a definite advantage. Students who choose DVC will have a love of drawing and an appreciation of good design. They will also be somewhat creative and be able to express ideas visually. They will be self-motivated and keen to succeed at a high level. 

What you will learn in this subject: 

Skills: At Level 3, the DVC course is all about independence and self-motivation. Students will learn to design and present high quality solutions to real life design problems. You will use the work of influential designers to inform and guide your work and you will complete high quality drawings and presentations of your ideas. 

Content:  

• Spacial Design 
• Product Design 
• Design Presentation 
• Design Exploration  
• Design Drawing 

Where this subject will lead: While there are many obvious paths that this subject can take you along such as architecture, engineering, product or media design as well as film or television production, there are many other areas of study, careers and interest where the creative and visual communication skills learned in DVC will be extremely transferable. Students who excel in this subject, may choose to submit their work for University Scholarship.

Who is this subject intended for:
Anyone who has a passion for computer programming and digital design or has passed Level 1 Digital Technologies.

What you will learn in this subject:
This course concentrates on two main areas, computer science, programming and also includes app development.

Student choice will be taken into account: students will have the option to focus on programming and computer science or design and media. 

The key concepts covered in this course are - Computer Science, Digital Design and Computer Programming. A substantial project will be completed as part of the course learning. The context is focused on developing an app using the skills developed earlier in the course.

Where this subject will lead:
On to a Computer Science further study in your chosen area and a career.
Contributions and Equipment/Stationery:

Who is this subject intended for
ENG301 is for students who have completed Level 2 English to a reasonably high level and enjoy language and literature. This is a course made up of Internal and External standards. This course will focus on gaining 14 credits of an approved University Entrance subject.
ENG302 is a communication skills Internal Unit Standards ours which offers more practical English rather than being reliant on Achievement Standards – 15 credits on offer.


What you will learn in this subject:
●Skills:
Year 13 builds on and develops the skills you learnt in Year 12.
●Content:
The course is based on the Making Meaning strand (Reading, Listening, Viewing) and the Creating Meaning strand (Writing, Speaking, Presenting) from the New Zealand Curriculum. You will write in a range of styles, read and respond critically to written and visual texts, create a visual text and deliver a speech to gain both internal and external credits.

Where this subject will lead:
Gaining credits for U E Literacy.
Students who study English at Level 3 develop strong analytical skills, essay writing skills and a command of written and oral language which is essential for success in any tertiary programme or field of work.

Who is this subject intended for:
Gateway aims to build students’ skills for employment, working in real workplaces on real tasks. It provides opportunities to try out potential careers and build links to Industry Training Organisations, modern apprenticeships and workplaces. It is a ‘hands on’ practical course. Due to the help offered by our local business community to run this programme, students need to be ‘work ready’; reliable, trustworthy, organised and respectful as they represent our school community. Applications and interviews with students, parents and employers are an important part of the Gateway programme.

What you will learn in this subject:
●Skills:
This subject builds on the students’ current skills within structured workplace learning. An emphasis is placed on building work skills relevant to career choices. The pre-Gateway programme (Term 1) places emphasis on identifying personal skills confirming career options and developing a broader understanding of the adult work environment through courses like Workplace Safety and Comprehensive First Aid.
●Content:
Gateway offers a hands on practical Level 2 and Level 3 Unit Standards course. All pre-Gateway students will complete the compulsory units of Workplace Safety, First Aid, Fire Safety, Job Readiness and then will work with Mrs Shaw, Workplace Coordinator to create their own personalised Gateway programme. Depending on the area of career interest, students will have the opportunity of work experience once a week and complete workplace unit standards which offer credits. Note: Students are required to complete a minimum of 15 days work placement as part of their Gateway Contract.

Where this subject will lead:
As Gateway opens a new pathway from school to the world of work, the student is able to blend their school study with their workplace learning and experience. This learning is assessed at school and in the workplace and can count towards other national qualifications (for example, Retail) or be counted towards their NCEA Level 2 or Level 3 Certificate. This programme of study also intends to help the student towards tertiary study (Polytechnic) or work in their chosen field the following year.

What you need to be able to do and know to achieve in this subject:

To achieve in this subject, students should have completed Level 2 Science, Biology or Chemistry.

This course will be based on a variety of Level 3 internal Achievement Standards mostly from the Earth and Space Science and Education for Sustainability.  This course will be designed to suit the student’s interests and strengths. There will be a strong emphasis on practical work and field studies.

Who this subject is for:

This subject is a non UE Subject, however it can be easily tailored to UE for selected students that require it. It is also designed for students who want to continue studying science without specialising.

Where this will lead:

Possible careers include, environmental engineer, landscape architect / gardener, surveyor, water treatment, agriculture / horticulture consultant, bio-security officer, quarantine inspector, ranger, quality assurance officer, conservator, customs officer, urban and regional planner and the list continues.

Who is this subject intended for:
It is for those who have an interest in the world around them; who want to make sense of the interconnections between people and places; and for those who aspire to be active participants in society. It is also for students who are keen to know how the past has informed the present, to better understand why things are the way they are. Our heritage helps define who we are so it is important to look back as well as to look forward. It is also for people who wish to refine and strengthen their writing and research skills. 

What you will learn in this subject:
●Skills:
Transferable skills such as the ability to think critically, analyse and synthesise information, conduct research, explore values, interpret and construct diagrams.  Essay writing remains a key skill which will be honed at Level 3. 

 
●Content:
For the History course you will visit Akaroa on a 3 day field trip to investigate a significant event in NZ History.  Topics include the Musket Wars and Akaroa Massacres, the French Settlement and the lives of Whalers and Sealers.  The perspectives paper in on Black American Civil Rights.

Geography will focus on researching the impacts of tourism at Mt Cook, Global Plastics and their impact on the planet

Where this subject will lead:
You will gain credits towards your NCEA Level 3 certificate and towards meeting University Entrance requirements.  It will set you up for tertiary level Geography or History, so you can start to make choices about specialising in natural or cultural branches of the subject. Geography and History skills and knowledge can be used in all career paths. Jobs associated with this subject include economist, farmer, adventure based tourism guide, travel agent, surveyor, teacher, regional planner, politician, geologist, real estate agent and many more.

Who is this subject intended for:

Students who have a passion for developing their skills in this subject area. This course may also lead to a career pathway in the Food or Hospitality industry.

What you will learn in this subject:

Skills:

Students who complete this course will gain credits towards NCEA Level 2/3 whilst also developing skills which they will be able to use in the Food or Hospitality industry.

Content:

• Food safety and personal hygiene in a commercial kitchen.
• Food service.
• Advanced knife skills and food preparation techniques.
• Creativity with food preparation and service.
• STAR funded courses may also be available.

Information:

We have the opportunity to tailor a course to suit the needs of each student. The main focus of this course is to prepare students for food and hospitality in industry.

Where this subject will lead:

This subject can lead to employment or career opportunities in the Food and Nutrition or Hospitality industry.

This course can only be done at Ara.

Who is this subject intended for: This is the course that pays the most dividends. After three years of learning Japanese, you now have a good grounding, because you have not only been learning Japanese, you have also been training your brain how to acquire another language. This Level 3 course completes your secondary Japanese language learning, and better yet, ensures that you have the skills necessary to learn even more languages. 

What you will learn in this subject: 

Skills: Students studying Japanese in year 13 will develop their language skills to an extent where they will be able to present arguments and opinions, discuss problems and express themselves in a range of situations of interest to young people. As students master increasingly complex grammar and build up their vocabulary, the Japanese speaking world begins to open up to them in an exciting way. 

Content: 

• Continued Kanji Study 
• Land & People 
• Travel & Tourism 
• Japan at Work 
• Social Issues 
• Japanese Culture

Where this subject will lead: 

•Tertiary Level Japanese study 

•3rd and 4th language acquisition – now that you know how to learn a language, why not learn German, Italian or Chinese! 

•Many future career opportunities including: 

            Travel consultant 

            Government – diplomatic officer / NZ embassy staff, nurse 

            Business – international trade, international marketing 

            Translator (written documents), interpreter (United Nations, courtroom, hospital) 

            Education – secondary teacher, university professor 

            JET Programme – Assistant English Teacher in Japan 

For further information visit the Opihi College Japanese Department website.

In this Materials Technology course, the focus will be on carpentry related Level 3 BCATS standards. 

Who is this subject for?

Completion of Level 2 BCATS standards are a prerequisite. This subject is aimed toward those students who are seriously considering a career in the trades or heading into trades training after school. Strong self-management skills, the ability to make independent decisions and to act responsibly in the workshop is also required.

What will you learn in this subject?

Students will design, develop and complete a suitable project in consultation with the teacher. This process should allow students the opportunity to complete a range of standards listed below (Lvl 3: 40 credits).

• US 29684 - Undertake a Stage 3 BCATS project (12 credits)
• US 29677 - Follow safe workplace practices, and contribute to a health and safety culture, in a BCATS environment (2 credits)
• US 29678 - Demonstrate knowledge of, select, and use materials for a Stage 3 BCATS project (4 credits)
• US 29679 - Develop and use BCATS project documentation for a Stage 3 BCATS project (8 credits)
• US 29680 - Communicate and work collaboratively in a Stage 3 BCATS project (5 credits)
• US 29681 - Measure and calculate for a Stage 3 BCATS project (3 credits)
• US 29682 - Select, use, and maintain tools, equipment and machinery for a Stage 3 BCATS project (4 credits)
• US 29683 - Incorporate other building, construction and allied trades into a Stage 3 BCATS project schedule (2 credits)

Where will this subject lead?

This subject may lead into tertiary trades training or a wide range of job- and career opportunities.

Who is this subject intended for:
Students who have already completed a Level 2 Mathematics course and wish to extend their mathematical knowledge.

What you will learn in this subject:
This course will offer Level 3 standards in a range of topics including: linear programming, critical path analysis and systems of equations. These are topics that are often used in business and management. This course can be adapted to suit the needs of the student.

Where this subject will lead:
Students will be prepared for further study in tertiary courses where mathematical skills are required.

Students with the support of the teacher design a program that best suits. Courses will deal with a wide range of styles and historical periods and performance students will also be expected to contribute to the musical and cultural life of Opihi College throughout the year. Courses chosen will reflect the intentions of the student to either follow an academic path or to work in the areas of performance, or both of these.

Who is this subject intended for:
Students who have studied at Level 2 Physical Education.
This is a combined academic and physical subject where students need to be a focused performer of all sports in order to achieve highly.

What you will learn in this subject:
•Skills:
A refinement of physical and psychological skills related to concepts within the performance of sport will be built upon during this course. Students will be extended academically with research and the practical application of anatomy, biomechanics and physiology. Students will also have to evaluate their own performance and those of others in a group context.

•Content:
This course is broken into three units of work worth 20 credits:
o  Planning and evaluating a physical activity programme
o  Performance improvement
o  Actions influencing the participation of others

Where this subject will lead:
Students wishing to study sport at university, whilst other professions require elements that are taught within the Physical Education subject areas. Consider researching the requirements of Nursing, Radiography, Physiotherapy and other heath related careers.

Who is this subject intended for:
Students who have completed NCEA Level 2 Te Reo Māori.

What you will learn in this subject:
●Skills:
ocommunicate about certainty and uncertainty, possibility and probability
odevelop an argument or point of view, with reasons
orecount a series of events to inform, persuade or entertain
ocommunicate the same information in different ways for different audiences
orespond to selected and adapted texts in te reo Māori that are about te reo and tikanga Māori

●Possible topics:
He Tangata Rongonui – i whānau mai i muri i te tau 1900.
Waiata /Haka – he waiata /haka i titoa ai i muri i te tau 1900.
Te Reo Rangatira – he kaupapa /rautaki e tautoko ana i te whakaoranga o te reo Māori.
Te Ao Tōrangapū – he kaupapa tōrangapū e pā ana ki te hapori, ki te iwi Māori, ki Aotearoa whānui.

Where this subject will lead:
Many career opportunities including education, health, tourism, government agencies, and business.

Level 3 Tourism – 2026

Looking to kickstart your journey into the tourism industry or build on what you've already learned? Our Level 3 Tourism course is open to both new and returning students who are ready to explore the dynamic world of travel, customer service, and cultural awareness.

In this course, you'll deepen your understanding of tourism operations and customer service, while developing the practical skills needed for real-world roles in the sector. Independent thinking, strong communication, and industry awareness are key focuses.

Students will have the opportunity to earn at least 16 credits from essential NZQA Unit Standards, including:

• US 18212 – Demonstrate knowledge of New Zealand as a tourist destination
• US 23766 – Demonstrate knowledge of the sales function in a tourism workplace
• US 25508 – Demonstrate knowledge of cultural and social impacts of tourism

Whether you're looking toward a career in tourism, hospitality, or further tertiary study, this course sets you up with relevant, work-ready skills and insights into the global travel industry.

Step into the world of tourism.

Supported Learning

This course is designed for students who have been identified as needing some extra support with learning.  Students will work on Supported Learning Standards to earn Unit Standards towards either NCEA or a Supported Learning Qualification.

The course focuses on practical skills including:

• Everyday numeracy skills
• Everyday literacy skills
• Communication skills
• Goal setting
• Personal Health 
• Conflict resolution.

Who is this subject intended for:

Students who meet the criteria described in the 'General Information' area can apply to take courses offered by the online learning services in Canterbury, Otago and Southland.

NetNZ and Te Kura courses run subject to sufficient interest levels (e.g discuss a backup plan!)

NetNZ course details are available at http://netnz.org under ‘Courses”


Science
Languages
Technology
Social Science
Biology - L2, L3
Te Reo Maori - L1 (Beg & full), L2, L3
Computer Science - L3
Philosophy
Chemistry - L2, L3
Chinese/Chinese Studies - Beginner(Y9), Pre NCEA (Y10), L1, L2 L3
Y7&8 An introduction to China & Chinese
Digital Technologies - L1, L2
Classical Studies - L2, L3
Physics - L2, L3
Japanese/Japanese Studies - Beginner(Y9), Pre NCEA (Y10), L1, L2 L3
Y7&8 An introduction to Japan & Japanese
Design and Visual Communication
Geography - L1, L2, L3
Electronics & Electrical Engineering - L2 (& 3)
Korean/Korean Studies - Beginner(Y9), Pre NCEA (Y10), L1, L2 L3
Y7&8 An introduction to Korea & Korean
Robotics - L1, L2
History - L1. L2, L3
Agricultural & Horticultural Science / Agribusiness - L2, L3
French - L1, L2, L3
Web Design - L3
Media Studies - L2 & L3
Agriculture (Telford) - L2, L3
German - Beginners, L1, L2
The Arts
Psychology L2, L3 - tbc
Equine Studies (Telford) - L2/3
Samoan - L1, L2, L3
Art History - L2, L3
Social Studies - L3
Maths
Spanish - Beginners, L1, L2, L3
Photography - L2, L3
Accounting - L1, L2, L3
Calculus - L3
Tongan - Beginner, L1-3
Drama - L1, L2, L3
Business Studies - L2
Statistics -L3
Health and Physical Education
Maori Performing Arts - L1
Economics - L1, L2, L3
Mathematics - L3
Physical Education - L2, L3
Performance Music - L1, L2, L3

Students must write proposed subject when selecting this course.

Who is this subject intended for:
This course aims to create an opportunity for students to achieve a qualification in Te Reo Māori that will provide the building blocks for future success in their studies.

What you will learn in this subject:
Students will build on what they have learned in Years 9 and 10 and increase their confidence and knowledge as a speaker of Te Reo, by
○talking about events and facts in the past, present and future
○talking about feelings, ideas, opinions; what you can and cannot do, likes and dislikes
○describing yourself and others, home, work, school and leisure environments in depth
○making comparisons and contrasts
○giving directions, instructions, suggestions and orders

•Possible Topics:
Ko mātou ko tōku whānau (Me and my family)
Ki te kāinga (At home)
Tangata Rongonui (Famous people)
Hui Marae (Marae gatherings)
Haerenga (Travel)
Ko te ao Taiohi (The world of youth)

This is a new course being offered at NCEA Level 1, 2 and 3.

Te Ao Haka is a culturally responsive art form, providing opportunities for all ākonga to engage in Māori culture, language and traditional practice. Te Ao Haka is founded on traditional knowledge, but is progressive in the development and evolution of the art form.

Intrinsic to Te Ao Haka are culture, language and identity. Te Ao Haka is a vehicle used to wānanga and communicate culture, tikanga, knowledge systems and iwi traditions. Te Ao Haka is enabling and centres around the importance of family, marae, iwi, hapū and waka through connection with the past, present and future. This belonging gives ākonga a purpose to strive towards and achieve to their full potential, including empowering them to have fun and enjoy the performing arts.

Ākonga who engage with Te Ao Haka recognise that pride in their culture also comes with a responsibility to create a positive space for others to continue expressing themselves in developing their craft. Therefore, ākonga are able to understand their contributions to the art form.

Te Ao Haka offers a variety of opportunities for students to nurture and grow their leadership skills. Te Ao Haka requires and supports many different types of leadership, both on and off stage. This gives ākonga the chance to explore and exemplify leadership.

L3 Agriculture and Horticulture

This course is designed for students eager to deepen their theoretical knowledge and practical skills in Agriculture and Horticulture, with a focus on real-world applications. Students will cover a range of topics across Level 3 Unit Standards, offering at least 20 credits. These may include things like small engines, tractors, fencing, pruning and spraying, working with livestock and health and safety. 

There is also the opportunity to cover Level 3 Achievement Standards if students are interested in pursuing an academic pathway in Agriculture. This will be by negotiation between the student, their whānau and the Teacher in Charge. Unfortunately we are unable to offer University Entrance in this subject. 

Throughout the year, students will work on real farming and horticultural projects, building essential skills that are directly applicable to future careers in these industries. This course is perfect for students who learn best by doing and want to take their skills to the next level.

Who is this subject intended for:
Those students who complete a successful folder at Level 2 or students who have achieved success at Level 2Art

What you will learn in this subject:
●Skill:
At Level 3 you must be an independent worker and able to learn from contemporary models and assimilate these conventions into your work. You will learn that creating work is a process that provides you with the information you need to complete your work successfully.
●Content:
o Analyse methods and ideas from established practice.
o Use drawing to demonstrate understanding of conventions appropriate to different artistic styles.
o Produce a systematic body of work
o Produce a resolved work that demonstrates purposeful control of skills appropriate to visual arts contexts.

Who is this subject intended for:
Students who have completed Level 2 Biology or at teacher’s discretion.

What you will learn in this subject: This course focuses on students investigating and developing their understanding of the living world.  It covers aspects of human evolution, investigating plant and animal physiology, genetic modification, homeostasis, human anatomy/physiology and current Biological issues, such as Covid-19 and 1080.  Student will be provided with opportunities to develop their investigate skills through field work.

Where this subject will lead:

Science-based university or Polytechnic courses e.g. Nursing, Midwifery, Medicine, Physiotherapy, Vet Science, Anatomy, Biological Anthropology, Genetics, Biochemistry, Microbiology. Students will also gain a range of skills and knowledge that are applicable to apprenticeships and employment, particularly careers relating to humans, animals or plants.

Who is this subject intended for:
Students who have completed Level 2 Chemistry, or at the HOF's discretion.

What you will learn in this subject:
Students are given opportunities to develop investigative, research and critical thinking skills

Content:

• Investigations
• Volumetric Analysis
• Structures and Bonding
• Redox
• Research

Where this subject will lead:

Science courses at university level e.g. Medical Sciences, Biological Sciences, Forensics etc.

Who is this subject intended for: While there is no prerequisite for Level 3 DVC, some experience in the subject would be a definite advantage. Students who choose DVC will have a love of drawing and an appreciation of good design. They will also be somewhat creative and be able to express ideas visually. They will be self-motivated and keen to succeed at a high level. 

What you will learn in this subject: 

Skills: At Level 3, the DVC course is all about independence and self-motivation. Students will learn to design and present high quality solutions to real life design problems. You will use the work of influential designers to inform and guide your work and you will complete high quality drawings and presentations of your ideas. 

Content:  

• Spacial Design 
• Product Design 
• Design Presentation 
• Design Exploration  
• Design Drawing 

Where this subject will lead: While there are many obvious paths that this subject can take you along such as architecture, engineering, product or media design as well as film or television production, there are many other areas of study, careers and interest where the creative and visual communication skills learned in DVC will be extremely transferable. Students who excel in this subject, may choose to submit their work for University Scholarship.

Who is this subject intended for:
Anyone who has a passion for computer programming and digital design or has passed Level 1 Digital Technologies.

What you will learn in this subject:
This course concentrates on two main areas, computer science, programming and also includes app development.

Student choice will be taken into account: students will have the option to focus on programming and computer science or design and media. 

The key concepts covered in this course are - Computer Science, Digital Design and Computer Programming. A substantial project will be completed as part of the course learning. The context is focused on developing an app using the skills developed earlier in the course.

Where this subject will lead:
On to a Computer Science further study in your chosen area and a career.
Contributions and Equipment/Stationery:

Who is this subject intended for
ENG301 is for students who have completed Level 2 English to a reasonably high level and enjoy language and literature. This is a course made up of Internal and External standards. This course will focus on gaining 14 credits of an approved University Entrance subject.
ENG302 is a communication skills Internal Unit Standards ours which offers more practical English rather than being reliant on Achievement Standards – 15 credits on offer.


What you will learn in this subject:
●Skills:
Year 13 builds on and develops the skills you learnt in Year 12.
●Content:
The course is based on the Making Meaning strand (Reading, Listening, Viewing) and the Creating Meaning strand (Writing, Speaking, Presenting) from the New Zealand Curriculum. You will write in a range of styles, read and respond critically to written and visual texts, create a visual text and deliver a speech to gain both internal and external credits.

Where this subject will lead:
Gaining credits for U E Literacy.
Students who study English at Level 3 develop strong analytical skills, essay writing skills and a command of written and oral language which is essential for success in any tertiary programme or field of work.

Who is this subject intended for:
Gateway aims to build students’ skills for employment, working in real workplaces on real tasks. It provides opportunities to try out potential careers and build links to Industry Training Organisations, modern apprenticeships and workplaces. It is a ‘hands on’ practical course. Due to the help offered by our local business community to run this programme, students need to be ‘work ready’; reliable, trustworthy, organised and respectful as they represent our school community. Applications and interviews with students, parents and employers are an important part of the Gateway programme.

What you will learn in this subject:
●Skills:
This subject builds on the students’ current skills within structured workplace learning. An emphasis is placed on building work skills relevant to career choices. The pre-Gateway programme (Term 1) places emphasis on identifying personal skills confirming career options and developing a broader understanding of the adult work environment through courses like Workplace Safety and Comprehensive First Aid.
●Content:
Gateway offers a hands on practical Level 2 and Level 3 Unit Standards course. All pre-Gateway students will complete the compulsory units of Workplace Safety, First Aid, Fire Safety, Job Readiness and then will work with Mrs Shaw, Workplace Coordinator to create their own personalised Gateway programme. Depending on the area of career interest, students will have the opportunity of work experience once a week and complete workplace unit standards which offer credits. Note: Students are required to complete a minimum of 15 days work placement as part of their Gateway Contract.

Where this subject will lead:
As Gateway opens a new pathway from school to the world of work, the student is able to blend their school study with their workplace learning and experience. This learning is assessed at school and in the workplace and can count towards other national qualifications (for example, Retail) or be counted towards their NCEA Level 2 or Level 3 Certificate. This programme of study also intends to help the student towards tertiary study (Polytechnic) or work in their chosen field the following year.

What you need to be able to do and know to achieve in this subject:

To achieve in this subject, students should have completed Level 2 Science, Biology or Chemistry.

This course will be based on a variety of Level 3 internal Achievement Standards mostly from the Earth and Space Science and Education for Sustainability.  This course will be designed to suit the student’s interests and strengths. There will be a strong emphasis on practical work and field studies.

Who this subject is for:

This subject is a non UE Subject, however it can be easily tailored to UE for selected students that require it. It is also designed for students who want to continue studying science without specialising.

Where this will lead:

Possible careers include, environmental engineer, landscape architect / gardener, surveyor, water treatment, agriculture / horticulture consultant, bio-security officer, quarantine inspector, ranger, quality assurance officer, conservator, customs officer, urban and regional planner and the list continues.

Who is this subject intended for:
It is for those who have an interest in the world around them; who want to make sense of the interconnections between people and places; and for those who aspire to be active participants in society. It is also for students who are keen to know how the past has informed the present, to better understand why things are the way they are. Our heritage helps define who we are so it is important to look back as well as to look forward. It is also for people who wish to refine and strengthen their writing and research skills. 

What you will learn in this subject:
●Skills:
Transferable skills such as the ability to think critically, analyse and synthesise information, conduct research, explore values, interpret and construct diagrams.  Essay writing remains a key skill which will be honed at Level 3. 

 
●Content:
For the History course you will visit Akaroa on a 3 day field trip to investigate a significant event in NZ History.  Topics include the Musket Wars and Akaroa Massacres, the French Settlement and the lives of Whalers and Sealers.  The perspectives paper in on Black American Civil Rights.

Geography will focus on researching the impacts of tourism at Mt Cook, Global Plastics and their impact on the planet

Where this subject will lead:
You will gain credits towards your NCEA Level 3 certificate and towards meeting University Entrance requirements.  It will set you up for tertiary level Geography or History, so you can start to make choices about specialising in natural or cultural branches of the subject. Geography and History skills and knowledge can be used in all career paths. Jobs associated with this subject include economist, farmer, adventure based tourism guide, travel agent, surveyor, teacher, regional planner, politician, geologist, real estate agent and many more.

Who is this subject intended for:

Students who have a passion for developing their skills in this subject area. This course may also lead to a career pathway in the Food or Hospitality industry.

What you will learn in this subject:

Skills:

Students who complete this course will gain credits towards NCEA Level 2/3 whilst also developing skills which they will be able to use in the Food or Hospitality industry.

Content:

• Food safety and personal hygiene in a commercial kitchen.
• Food service.
• Advanced knife skills and food preparation techniques.
• Creativity with food preparation and service.
• STAR funded courses may also be available.

Information:

We have the opportunity to tailor a course to suit the needs of each student. The main focus of this course is to prepare students for food and hospitality in industry.

Where this subject will lead:

This subject can lead to employment or career opportunities in the Food and Nutrition or Hospitality industry.

This course can only be done at Ara.

Who is this subject intended for: This is the course that pays the most dividends. After three years of learning Japanese, you now have a good grounding, because you have not only been learning Japanese, you have also been training your brain how to acquire another language. This Level 3 course completes your secondary Japanese language learning, and better yet, ensures that you have the skills necessary to learn even more languages. 

What you will learn in this subject: 

Skills: Students studying Japanese in year 13 will develop their language skills to an extent where they will be able to present arguments and opinions, discuss problems and express themselves in a range of situations of interest to young people. As students master increasingly complex grammar and build up their vocabulary, the Japanese speaking world begins to open up to them in an exciting way. 

Content: 

• Continued Kanji Study 
• Land & People 
• Travel & Tourism 
• Japan at Work 
• Social Issues 
• Japanese Culture

Where this subject will lead: 

•Tertiary Level Japanese study 

•3rd and 4th language acquisition – now that you know how to learn a language, why not learn German, Italian or Chinese! 

•Many future career opportunities including: 

            Travel consultant 

            Government – diplomatic officer / NZ embassy staff, nurse 

            Business – international trade, international marketing 

            Translator (written documents), interpreter (United Nations, courtroom, hospital) 

            Education – secondary teacher, university professor 

            JET Programme – Assistant English Teacher in Japan 

For further information visit the Opihi College Japanese Department website.

In this Materials Technology course, the focus will be on carpentry related Level 3 BCATS standards. 

Who is this subject for?

Completion of Level 2 BCATS standards are a prerequisite. This subject is aimed toward those students who are seriously considering a career in the trades or heading into trades training after school. Strong self-management skills, the ability to make independent decisions and to act responsibly in the workshop is also required.

What will you learn in this subject?

Students will design, develop and complete a suitable project in consultation with the teacher. This process should allow students the opportunity to complete a range of standards listed below (Lvl 3: 40 credits).

• US 29684 - Undertake a Stage 3 BCATS project (12 credits)
• US 29677 - Follow safe workplace practices, and contribute to a health and safety culture, in a BCATS environment (2 credits)
• US 29678 - Demonstrate knowledge of, select, and use materials for a Stage 3 BCATS project (4 credits)
• US 29679 - Develop and use BCATS project documentation for a Stage 3 BCATS project (8 credits)
• US 29680 - Communicate and work collaboratively in a Stage 3 BCATS project (5 credits)
• US 29681 - Measure and calculate for a Stage 3 BCATS project (3 credits)
• US 29682 - Select, use, and maintain tools, equipment and machinery for a Stage 3 BCATS project (4 credits)
• US 29683 - Incorporate other building, construction and allied trades into a Stage 3 BCATS project schedule (2 credits)

Where will this subject lead?

This subject may lead into tertiary trades training or a wide range of job- and career opportunities.

Who is this subject intended for:
Students who have already completed a Level 2 Mathematics course and wish to extend their mathematical knowledge.

What you will learn in this subject:
This course will offer Level 3 standards in a range of topics including: linear programming, critical path analysis and systems of equations. These are topics that are often used in business and management. This course can be adapted to suit the needs of the student.

Where this subject will lead:
Students will be prepared for further study in tertiary courses where mathematical skills are required.

Students with the support of the teacher design a program that best suits. Courses will deal with a wide range of styles and historical periods and performance students will also be expected to contribute to the musical and cultural life of Opihi College throughout the year. Courses chosen will reflect the intentions of the student to either follow an academic path or to work in the areas of performance, or both of these.

Who is this subject intended for:
Students who have studied at Level 2 Physical Education.
This is a combined academic and physical subject where students need to be a focused performer of all sports in order to achieve highly.

What you will learn in this subject:
•Skills:
A refinement of physical and psychological skills related to concepts within the performance of sport will be built upon during this course. Students will be extended academically with research and the practical application of anatomy, biomechanics and physiology. Students will also have to evaluate their own performance and those of others in a group context.

•Content:
This course is broken into three units of work worth 20 credits:
o  Planning and evaluating a physical activity programme
o  Performance improvement
o  Actions influencing the participation of others

Where this subject will lead:
Students wishing to study sport at university, whilst other professions require elements that are taught within the Physical Education subject areas. Consider researching the requirements of Nursing, Radiography, Physiotherapy and other heath related careers.

Who is this subject intended for:
Students who have completed NCEA Level 2 Te Reo Māori.

What you will learn in this subject:
●Skills:
ocommunicate about certainty and uncertainty, possibility and probability
odevelop an argument or point of view, with reasons
orecount a series of events to inform, persuade or entertain
ocommunicate the same information in different ways for different audiences
orespond to selected and adapted texts in te reo Māori that are about te reo and tikanga Māori

●Possible topics:
He Tangata Rongonui – i whānau mai i muri i te tau 1900.
Waiata /Haka – he waiata /haka i titoa ai i muri i te tau 1900.
Te Reo Rangatira – he kaupapa /rautaki e tautoko ana i te whakaoranga o te reo Māori.
Te Ao Tōrangapū – he kaupapa tōrangapū e pā ana ki te hapori, ki te iwi Māori, ki Aotearoa whānui.

Where this subject will lead:
Many career opportunities including education, health, tourism, government agencies, and business.

Who is this subject intended for:

Students who meet the criteria described in the 'General Information' area can apply to take courses offered by the online learning services in Canterbury, Otago and Southland.

NetNZ and Te Kura courses run subject to sufficient interest levels (e.g discuss a backup plan!)

NetNZ course details are available at http://netnz.org under ‘Courses”


Science
Languages
Technology
Social Science
Biology - L2, L3
Te Reo Maori - L1 (Beg & full), L2, L3
Computer Science - L3
Philosophy
Chemistry - L2, L3
Chinese/Chinese Studies - Beginner(Y9), Pre NCEA (Y10), L1, L2 L3
Y7&8 An introduction to China & Chinese
Digital Technologies - L1, L2
Classical Studies - L2, L3
Physics - L2, L3
Japanese/Japanese Studies - Beginner(Y9), Pre NCEA (Y10), L1, L2 L3
Y7&8 An introduction to Japan & Japanese
Design and Visual Communication
Geography - L1, L2, L3
Electronics & Electrical Engineering - L2 (& 3)
Korean/Korean Studies - Beginner(Y9), Pre NCEA (Y10), L1, L2 L3
Y7&8 An introduction to Korea & Korean
Robotics - L1, L2
History - L1. L2, L3
Agricultural & Horticultural Science / Agribusiness - L2, L3
French - L1, L2, L3
Web Design - L3
Media Studies - L2 & L3
Agriculture (Telford) - L2, L3
German - Beginners, L1, L2
The Arts
Psychology L2, L3 - tbc
Equine Studies (Telford) - L2/3
Samoan - L1, L2, L3
Art History - L2, L3
Social Studies - L3
Maths
Spanish - Beginners, L1, L2, L3
Photography - L2, L3
Accounting - L1, L2, L3
Calculus - L3
Tongan - Beginner, L1-3
Drama - L1, L2, L3
Business Studies - L2
Statistics -L3
Health and Physical Education
Maori Performing Arts - L1
Economics - L1, L2, L3
Mathematics - L3
Physical Education - L2, L3
Performance Music - L1, L2, L3

Students must write proposed subject when selecting this course.