Mountainview High School

Computer Aided Drawing (CAD) – Year 9 & 10

In this hands-on course, students will explore the technological design process to solve creative challenges. They’ll develop ideas through freehand sketching, research, and technical drawing techniques, then bring their concepts to life using a computer-aided drawing (CAD) program. Designs will be digitally modelled and produced using CNC equipment such as laser cutter and 3D printers. Students will learn to communicate visually, plan effectively, and apply problem-solving skills. In Terms 1 and 2, the focus will be to create knick knacks and small storage items for around the home. A great blend of creativity and technology!

Creative Design

Want to help make the school's production of Beauty and the Beast look amazing? In this class, you’ll design and build all the visual elements required for the show, from the first idea to opening night. You'll get hands-on experience designing, developing and producing a diverse selection of props, costumes, and the set. You'll work in a team and have regular meetings with the show's directors and cast. This is a practical, collaborative class perfect for learning teamwork, communication, and best of all, you'll get to see your creations live on stage!

Digital Technologies: Year 9 & 10

This course will build foundational computer science, digital design, and problem-solving skills for students in both Year 9 (Foundation) and Year 10 (Building and Extension).
The course is designed for students to join in at any semester. For example a Year 10 student might choose to join Digital Technologies in Semester 2. 

They can opt to work through the Foundation aspects and then decide to continue in Year 11 if they wish. There is some crossover at the start of the Level 1 course with aspects of the Building and Extension parts of this course to allow a smooth transition to Senior course now matter how much Digital Technologies experience you have had in Junior School. This is done to enable students to try lots of different subjects in Year 9 and 10 if they wish without stopping them from pursuing a senior subject in Years 11 and above.

The structure of the course going from Foundations, to Building and Extension, especially the extended time spent on text-based coding, and digital design, along with the self-directed projects, ensures that Year 10 students build the technical proficiency and project management skills required for a seamless and successful transition into NCEA Level 1 Digital Technology in Year 11.

It starts in the first semester with basics and culminates in semester 2 for more complex projects to prepare Year 10 students for the Senior Digital Technologies courses.
Throughout the course there will also be lessons on: 

• Computer Skills: keyboard skills, computer navigation and basic networking. 
• Digital Citizenship: Cybersecurity, online privacy, and digital ethics and AI.

Semester 1 focuses on establishing core digital fluency, programming logic, and creative design principles.

Digital Design and Media Masters (Term 1)

• Foundation: Fundamentals of digital design, basic image editing, and creating effective presentations or simple web pages.
• Building and Extension: Advanced web design and UX (User Experience) principles. Introduction to basic video editing and developing a digital design portfolio.

Code Creators: Programming Logic (Term 2) 

• Foundation: Introduction to coding using block-based or simplified text-based languages. Mastering core concepts like sequence, iteration (loops), and selection (if/else).
• Building and Extension: Transition to text-based languages (e.g. Python, Javascript). Developing more complex algorithms for data manipulation and creating interactive mini-projects like quizzes or basic games.

Semester 2 builds similar skills in Semester 1 but with a focus on electronics, data management, and culminating in a more independent end of semester project.

Computer Control (Term 3)

• Foundation: Introduction to digital electronic control. What is inside a computer. Programming simple microcontrollers to control basic robots, LED displays and other basic outputs. Understanding the link between code and physical action.
• Building and Extension: Advanced electronic control using sensors and actuators. Applying Python or JavaScript to program more complex devices or small robotics platforms. Focus on debugging complex physical systems and integrating code with real-world inputs.

Data, AI, Ethics, and Innovation (Term 4)

• Data Insights (All Students): Understand basic data analysis and how to use visualisations (graphs, charts) to drive decisions. Investigate how AI is starting to be used to process data. 
• Foundation: Completion of a structured mini-project that introduces the concepts of designing for others getting feedback..
• Building and Extension: NCEA preparation focus : Students undertake an Innovation Project building on their strongest skills whether that be digital design or coding. They define a problem, design a solution (which might involves digital control or website design or interacting with data), documenting and managing the project from concept to completion, trialing their designs or testing their code.

Have you ever imagined what it would be like to be someone else—a hero, a villain, or even an outrageous character with a wild personality? In this drama course, we’ll dive into the world of becoming different characters, learning how to bring them to life in fun, unexpected ways. Through hands-on workshops and creative group activities, you’ll discover how to use voice, body, space and movement to transform into anyone you can imagine! We’ll explore all sorts of stories & people helping you understand what makes characters tick. This course isn’t just about acting; it’s about stepping out of your comfort zone, having a blast with your classmates, and discovering the power of storytelling. By the end, you’ll be ready to jump into any character role with confidence and creativity!

Welcome to Creative Star—a dynamic drama course where storytelling, improvisation, and devising take center stage! Perfect for both beginners and seasoned performers, this course is all about diving into the exciting world of creating original stories and characters. With a "challenge by choice" approach, you’ll be able to push your boundaries at your own pace, building confidence as you go. Through hands-on activities, you’ll explore how to think on your feet with improvisation, work as a team to devise unique scenes, and bring characters to life in fun and unexpected ways. It’s all about expressing yourself, experimenting, and letting your creativity shine in a supportive, playful environment!

Introduction to Hard Materials Technology Engineering year 9 and 10 - 

This introductory Year 9 and 10 Hard Materials Technology Engineering course builds foundational skills in engineering principles. Students will learn to generate technical drawings and follow the technological design process, exploring and refining project ideas from a given brief. They’ll gain hands-on experience in the workshop, constructing their final ideas while researching tools, machinery, and materials. Emphasis will be placed on meeting project specifications (E.G. accurate measurements and tolerances) and understanding the importance of health and safety in a workshop environment. This course offers a blend of practical skills and essential theory knowledge, preparing students for future engineering studies.

Food Tech - Y9

Embark on a thrilling journey through the world of Food Technology. This semester promises to be a feast for the mind, blending theory with hands-on practical lessons that will awaken your culinary curiosity. A semester in Food Technology will cover a range of Food, Nutrition and Health topics. In term 1, students can expect topics such as food safety and food groups, researching macro and micro nutrients, and studying the effects of sugar and caffeine on the body and exploring healthy recipe alternatives. The concept of Hauora will be streamlined throughout this term. Term 2 will see students focus on where food comes from, a brief look into growing vegetables and utilising what is grown in the kitchen. Students will also be taken through an introduction to Hospitality, which sets students up for success in senior school and the Hospitality Industry.

Step into the exciting world of Japan through its language and culture! This course is designed for everyone, whether you’re completely new to Japanese or already know quite a bit. Learning Japanese isn’t just about language—it’s a ticket to exploring everything from Japan’s traditional arts and festivals to its high-tech innovations and pop culture. You will learn more about yourself and your classmates cultures, while exploring Japanese culture too. 

You’ll develop skills in reading, writing, speaking, and listening in Japanese. We’ll start with the basics, like introducing yourself, and work up to having real-life conversations. You’ll be able to go at your own pace, with activities and resources that fit your style—think games, videos, hands-on projects, and interactive digital tools. Plus, if you keep up Japanese into your senior years, you’ll get the chance to join a trip to Japan where you can experience everything you’ve learned in real life!

Money Talks:

Ever wonder how to get better with money? 

Money Talks will make sure you have the skills to feel confident about money before you need to use them in the real world.

By the end of this course, you'll know how to:

• Boost Your Income: Discover the different ways people earn money and how to make the most of your paycheck.
• Borrowing Power: Understand the secrets of credit cards and loans. Learn what interest is and how to use borrowing wisely.
• Future-Proofing Your Cash: Get the lowdown on KiwiSaver—your essential retirement savings plan—and why starting to think about it now is a super-smart move.

In the second half of the semester, you'll join Banqer High, a thrilling online simulation where you get to live an adult financial life—without the real-world consequences!

You will:

• Run Your Own Bank Account: Set up a pretend account and manage your virtual money.
• Get a Job and Get Paid: Apply for a fictitious job and watch the income roll in.
• Rent Your Own Place: Apply for a rental property and learn the reality of managing monthly bills.

Ready to take control and become a money master? Enroll in Money Talks S1! and start building the future you want!

Ever wanted to write your own songs, create beats, or compose music for a movie? This hands-on, project-based class is your chance to unlock your creativity and become a composer! We'll explore the fundamental building blocks of music—what makes a melody catchy, a rhythm powerful, and a harmony sound complete. Students will learn to craft their own musical ideas from scratch and bring them to life. Learn the construction (music theory) skills and creativity skills to compose effective music!

Have you ever wanted to be able to play your favourite song? Are you the next global music superstar or want to be? In this course you will learn some skills in contemporary music including; guitar, drums, vocal and recording. This will be a strongly practical course with students learning their chosen musical instrument every lesson. Each student will select an instrument to learn which they will need to hire through the school or external provider. Instruments to choose from: Sax, Clarinet, Flute, Trumpet, Trombone, Violin, Cello. (This will be organised by Mr Duncan) This course will also focus on musical aural skills, and the study of world class performers and performances. If you are a complete beginner or an experienced musician this class is for YOU! Rock on!!

Be our guest! Step into the enchanted world of Disney's Beauty and the Beast in this hands-on, performance-based class. This course is dedicated to the complete production of the beloved Broadway musical, from the first rehearsal to the final curtain call. Students will work collaboratively to bring this "tale as old as time" to life on our stage.

We will learn, rehearse, and bring to life the music, choreography, and story, culminating in a series of public performances. No matter your experience level, Beauty and the Beast promises an incredible adventure, where you’ll gain new skills and feel the thrill of being part of a big production.

Note: This is a year long course.

Embark on an exciting journey to learn Spanish, tailored for all abilities from beginners to advanced learners! This inclusive course ensures every student progresses at their own pace, aligning with Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles and New Zealand curriculum levels 1-5.

Through interactive activities, you’ll develop skills in speaking, listening, reading, and writing Spanish while exploring the rich cultures of Spanish-speaking countries. Learn to cook, dance, make arts & crafts typically found in this amazing culture. A unique incentive awaits—students who advance through the levels will have the opportunity to join our senior school trip to Spain, enriching their language experience with real-world immersion.

Join us and open the door to a global community!

Unleash Your Inner Sports Expert! 

Ready to take your love for sports way beyond the field? This isn't just another P.E. class! Our exciting, hands-on programme dives deep into the science and strategy that makes elite athletes tick.

You'll explore the fascinating world of high-level performance and sports management. Get ready to uncover:

• Mind Games: Learn about Sports Psychology—discover how athletes use motivation, focus, and mental toughness to win. You'll figure out what makes a champion's mind different!
• The Science of Movement: Dive into Physiology and Biomechanics. Understand how your muscles, heart, and lungs work during exercise, and learn the physics behind the perfect throw, jump, or kick.
• Beyond the Player: Explore Roles and Responsibilities within the sports world. Do you want to be a top coach, a world-class trainer, a savvy manager, or a sports analyst? Learn the leadership, teamwork, and organisational skills needed for success in any sports career.

Why Choose This Course?

• Gain a Competitive Edge: Whether you play sports or just love watching them, you’ll get the insider knowledge that others miss.
• Boost Your Future: This course is a brilliant launchpad for careers in coaching, fitness, health, sports media, and even medicine or engineering.
• It’s Not Just Theory: We keep it active and engaging with practical activities, case studies on real athletes, and challenges that put you in the driver's seat.

If you're curious about why athletes perform the way they do, and you want to understand the secrets behind every victory, this is the course for you!

Year 9 and 10 STEM Environmental

Restoring Native New Zealand habitats.

We will dive into real-world environmental challenges, learning about our unique flora and fauna and the threats they face. 

You become young problem-solvers by:

• Designing smart solutions for pest control and predator-free initiatives.
• Investigating the science behind habitat restoration and native plant growth.
• Using technology to monitor wildlife and track conservation efforts.

Join us to empower the next generation of kaitiaki (guardians) with the skills to protect our precious backyard. It's an adventure in science that makes a real difference!

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completion of this class, students will be able to:

1. Identify and Differentiate: Identify key native New Zealand flora and fauna species and differentiate between major invasive pests (e.g., rats, stoats, possums) and native species.
2. Apply Scientific Principles: Apply basic scientific principles (e.g., food webs, population dynamics, ecological balance) to explain why pest control and habitat restoration are essential for the survival of native species.
3. Design and Engineer Solutions: Design and construct a simple STEM solution (e.g., a predator tracking tunnel, a protective plant guard, or a model habitat layout) that addresses a specific challenge in NZ habitat restoration.
4. Evaluate and Propose Actions: Evaluate the effectiveness of different pest control methods (e.g., trapping vs. baiting) and propose a reasoned conservation action plan for a hypothetical local habitat.

This course provides an ideal opportunity for students interested in science, the environment, and New Zealand's rich landscape to gain foundational knowledge and hands-on experience.

Nau mai, haere mai! Welcome to our Junior Māori Performing Arts Programme, where you’ll dive into the dynamic world of Māori culture and performance in a safe and supportive learning environment where the Māori value of ‘manaakitanga’ (showing support and guidance towards each other) is one of the main cultural values encouraged at all times.

This is an introductory level course which will offer you an exciting basic introduction to the world of Māori performing arts. You will get a taste for various aspects of kapa haka, including mōteatea (traditional chants), waiata (songs), poi, haka, and waiata ā-ringa (action songs). Through these activities, you will learn about the history and cultural significance of Māori performing arts, developing basic performance skills and an understanding of Māori culture. 

If you’re feeling a bit shy about joining Māori performing arts, don’t worry! You can start by participating informally, just for fun. It’s a great way to build confidence, connect with friends, and enjoy the rich traditions of Māori culture in a relaxed and supportive environment. Give it a try—you might discover a new passion!  Students are also welcome to be part of the well established wider school Kapa Haka performance group which is an optional extra curricular activity.  Plus, if you continue with Māori Performing Arts (MPA) into senior school, you’ll get the chance to join a North Island trip to Waitangi Bay of Islands. 

In the words of renowned native speaker and reo champion, Sir Tīmoti Karetū, te reo Māori needs to be heard far and wide, it needs to flow freely (kia rere), be correct (kia tika) and be normalised and authentic (kia māori)  - Ko te reo kia rere, ko te reo kia tika, ko te reo kia Māori.  

Learning te reo Māori isn’t just about language—it’s a gateway to our rich indigenous cultural heritage of Aotearoa. You will learn more about yourself and your classmates’ cultures while exploring Māori culture too. This course is designed for everyone, whether you’re completely new to te reo Māori or already know quite a lot.

You will develop skills in reading, writing, speaking, and listening in te reo Māori. We’ll start with the basics, like introducing yourself, and work up to having real-life conversations. You’ll be able to go at your own pace, with activities and resources that fit your style—think games, media/videos, hands-on projects, and interactive digital tools and place based learning experiencing our local Marae. You will get to learn more about the language revitalisation movement and the who’s who in te ao Māori/Māoridom.  Plus, if you continue learning te reo Māori into senior school, you’ll get the chance to join a North Island trip to Waitangi Bay of Islands.

Explore using various types of materials and techniques to produce Visual Art driven towards your own ideas. 

Are you interested in collage, craft, or crochet? Explore how you can use these to produce a cohesive body of resolved art works in 2D format, using established artists to support your exploration. We will explore painting, collage, print making techniques, amongst others. This class builds your technical skills, and will support your theory knowledge and concept development to progress your understanding and learning. 

You can choose this course at any experience level - if you have any questions please speak to Miss Miller.

You will learn technical skills such as print processes like cyanotype, developing acrylic painting skills, linocut, refining drawing skills, and documenting your process and ideas. You will have the opportunity to extend and refine your art skills to produce a resolved piece of work, and document your processes while you do this. Delve into existing artists, research your ideas, and have the opportunity to display your work to an audience.

If you have any questions please speak to Miss Miller.

Wood Tech - Y9

This option is for people who are new to the workshop. 

The objective is through the completion of products that can be used in and around the home that a student will learn and develop their practical skill set. These include the use of hand tools, machines and power tools. Safe work practices will also be taught. There will be an element of design within the course. 

Jnr Technology is interesting, forward-thinking and fun and gives the basic skills to take into our senior programs.

There is a focus on developing the skills necessary for students to pursue career pathways in Building, Engineering and associated trades. We work with Industry Training Organisations such as the BCITO and Tools 4 Work (Engineering) giving a broad range of associated trades. There is also the inclusion of Design in our senior school. There is enhancement through the Careers Dept with students doing short courses at ARA and Gateway work placements.

Note: There will a materials cost of $30 for take home projects

Computer Aided Drawing (CAD) – Year 9 & 10

In this hands-on course, students will explore the technological design process to solve creative challenges. They’ll develop ideas through freehand sketching, research, and technical drawing techniques, then bring their concepts to life using a computer-aided drawing (CAD) program. Designs will be digitally modelled and produced using CNC equipment such as laser cutter and 3D printers. Students will learn to communicate visually, plan effectively, and apply problem-solving skills. In Terms 1 and 2, the focus will be to create knick knacks and small storage items for around the home. A great blend of creativity and technology!

Creative Design

Want to help make the school's production of Beauty and the Beast look amazing? In this class, you’ll design and build all the visual elements required for the show, from the first idea to opening night. You'll get hands-on experience designing, developing and producing a diverse selection of props, costumes, and the set. You'll work in a team and have regular meetings with the show's directors and cast. This is a practical, collaborative class perfect for learning teamwork, communication, and best of all, you'll get to see your creations live on stage!

Digital Technologies: Year 9 & 10

This course will build foundational computer science, digital design, and problem-solving skills for students in both Year 9 (Foundation) and Year 10 (Building and Extension).
The course is designed for students to join in at any semester. For example a Year 10 student might choose to join Digital Technologies in Semester 2. 

They can opt to work through the Foundation aspects and then decide to continue in Year 11 if they wish. There is some crossover at the start of the Level 1 course with aspects of the Building and Extension parts of this course to allow a smooth transition to Senior course now matter how much Digital Technologies experience you have had in Junior School. This is done to enable students to try lots of different subjects in Year 9 and 10 if they wish without stopping them from pursuing a senior subject in Years 11 and above.

The structure of the course going from Foundations, to Building and Extension, especially the extended time spent on text-based coding, and digital design, along with the self-directed projects, ensures that Year 10 students build the technical proficiency and project management skills required for a seamless and successful transition into NCEA Level 1 Digital Technology in Year 11.

It starts in the first semester with basics and culminates in semester 2 for more complex projects to prepare Year 10 students for the Senior Digital Technologies courses.
Throughout the course there will also be lessons on: 

• Computer Skills: keyboard skills, computer navigation and basic networking. 
• Digital Citizenship: Cybersecurity, online privacy, and digital ethics and AI.

Semester 1 focuses on establishing core digital fluency, programming logic, and creative design principles.

Digital Design and Media Masters (Term 1)

• Foundation: Fundamentals of digital design, basic image editing, and creating effective presentations or simple web pages.
• Building and Extension: Advanced web design and UX (User Experience) principles. Introduction to basic video editing and developing a digital design portfolio.

Code Creators: Programming Logic (Term 2) 

• Foundation: Introduction to coding using block-based or simplified text-based languages. Mastering core concepts like sequence, iteration (loops), and selection (if/else).
• Building and Extension: Transition to text-based languages (e.g. Python, Javascript). Developing more complex algorithms for data manipulation and creating interactive mini-projects like quizzes or basic games.

Semester 2 builds similar skills in Semester 1 but with a focus on electronics, data management, and culminating in a more independent end of semester project.

Computer Control (Term 3)

• Foundation: Introduction to digital electronic control. What is inside a computer. Programming simple microcontrollers to control basic robots, LED displays and other basic outputs. Understanding the link between code and physical action.
• Building and Extension: Advanced electronic control using sensors and actuators. Applying Python or JavaScript to program more complex devices or small robotics platforms. Focus on debugging complex physical systems and integrating code with real-world inputs.

Data, AI, Ethics, and Innovation (Term 4)

• Data Insights (All Students): Understand basic data analysis and how to use visualisations (graphs, charts) to drive decisions. Investigate how AI is starting to be used to process data. 
• Foundation: Completion of a structured mini-project that introduces the concepts of designing for others getting feedback..
• Building and Extension: NCEA preparation focus : Students undertake an Innovation Project building on their strongest skills whether that be digital design or coding. They define a problem, design a solution (which might involves digital control or website design or interacting with data), documenting and managing the project from concept to completion, trialing their designs or testing their code.

Have you ever imagined what it would be like to be someone else—a hero, a villain, or even an outrageous character with a wild personality? In this drama course, we’ll dive into the world of becoming different characters, learning how to bring them to life in fun, unexpected ways. Through hands-on workshops and creative group activities, you’ll discover how to use voice, body, space and movement to transform into anyone you can imagine! We’ll explore all sorts of stories & people helping you understand what makes characters tick. This course isn’t just about acting; it’s about stepping out of your comfort zone, having a blast with your classmates, and discovering the power of storytelling. By the end, you’ll be ready to jump into any character role with confidence and creativity!

Welcome to Creative Star—a dynamic drama course where storytelling, improvisation, and devising take center stage! Perfect for both beginners and seasoned performers, this course is all about diving into the exciting world of creating original stories and characters. With a "challenge by choice" approach, you’ll be able to push your boundaries at your own pace, building confidence as you go. Through hands-on activities, you’ll explore how to think on your feet with improvisation, work as a team to devise unique scenes, and bring characters to life in fun and unexpected ways. It’s all about expressing yourself, experimenting, and letting your creativity shine in a supportive, playful environment!

Introduction to Hard Materials Technology Engineering year 9 and 10 - 

This introductory Year 9 and 10 Hard Materials Technology Engineering course builds foundational skills in engineering principles. Students will learn to generate technical drawings and follow the technological design process, exploring and refining project ideas from a given brief. They’ll gain hands-on experience in the workshop, constructing their final ideas while researching tools, machinery, and materials. Emphasis will be placed on meeting project specifications (E.G. accurate measurements and tolerances) and understanding the importance of health and safety in a workshop environment. This course offers a blend of practical skills and essential theory knowledge, preparing students for future engineering studies.

Food Tech - Y10

In Year 10 Food Technology 2025, you’ll dive into the exciting world of cooking  blending hands-on practice with essential food knowledge. The semester starts with the basics of food safety and hygiene, ensuring you’re prepared to handle food responsibly. We will work through two major units exploring a range of pizzas and how to cook a variety of vegetable toppings. In the second unit ākonga will learn various ways to cook noodles, dumplings and pickles, with a focus on cooking all ingredients to be ready simultaneously. You will learn about the Five Key Flavours and how to balance them, and using the design process, will plan and cook a variety of exciting meals. Through these activities, you’ll develop your skills in cooking, baking, and food hygiene, gaining insight into nutrition and health-related food choices. By the end of the course, you’ll be well-prepared to move into senior school hospitality studies, with practical skills and knowledge that set a foundation for future careers in the Hospitality Industry.

Step into the exciting world of Japan through its language and culture! This course is designed for everyone, whether you’re completely new to Japanese or already know quite a bit. Learning Japanese isn’t just about language—it’s a ticket to exploring everything from Japan’s traditional arts and festivals to its high-tech innovations and pop culture. You will learn more about yourself and your classmates cultures, while exploring Japanese culture too. 

You’ll develop skills in reading, writing, speaking, and listening in Japanese. We’ll start with the basics, like introducing yourself, and work up to having real-life conversations. You’ll be able to go at your own pace, with activities and resources that fit your style—think games, videos, hands-on projects, and interactive digital tools. Plus, if you keep up Japanese into your senior years, you’ll get the chance to join a trip to Japan where you can experience everything you’ve learned in real life!

Money Talks:

Ever wonder how to get better with money? 

Money Talks will make sure you have the skills to feel confident about money before you need to use them in the real world.

By the end of this course, you'll know how to:

• Boost Your Income: Discover the different ways people earn money and how to make the most of your paycheck.
• Borrowing Power: Understand the secrets of credit cards and loans. Learn what interest is and how to use borrowing wisely.
• Future-Proofing Your Cash: Get the lowdown on KiwiSaver—your essential retirement savings plan—and why starting to think about it now is a super-smart move.

In the second half of the semester, you'll join Banqer High, a thrilling online simulation where you get to live an adult financial life—without the real-world consequences!

You will:

• Run Your Own Bank Account: Set up a pretend account and manage your virtual money.
• Get a Job and Get Paid: Apply for a fictitious job and watch the income roll in.
• Rent Your Own Place: Apply for a rental property and learn the reality of managing monthly bills.

Ready to take control and become a money master? Enroll in Money Talks S1! and start building the future you want!

This course provides students with foundational knowledge and hands on skills in business planning and personal finance. Through engaging activities and real-world applications, students will develop an understanding of market strategies and gain essential life skills for managing their financial futures.

Ever wanted to write your own songs, create beats, or compose music for a movie? This hands-on, project-based class is your chance to unlock your creativity and become a composer! We'll explore the fundamental building blocks of music—what makes a melody catchy, a rhythm powerful, and a harmony sound complete. Students will learn to craft their own musical ideas from scratch and bring them to life. Learn the construction (music theory) skills and creativity skills to compose effective music!

Have you ever wanted to be able to play your favourite song? Are you the next global music superstar or want to be? In this course you will learn some skills in contemporary music including; guitar, drums, vocal and recording. This will be a strongly practical course with students learning their chosen musical instrument every lesson. Each student will select an instrument to learn which they will need to hire through the school or external provider. Instruments to choose from: Sax, Clarinet, Flute, Trumpet, Trombone, Violin, Cello. (This will be organised by Mr Duncan) This course will also focus on musical aural skills, and the study of world class performers and performances. If you are a complete beginner or an experienced musician this class is for YOU! Rock on!!

Be our guest! Step into the enchanted world of Disney's Beauty and the Beast in this hands-on, performance-based class. This course is dedicated to the complete production of the beloved Broadway musical, from the first rehearsal to the final curtain call. Students will work collaboratively to bring this "tale as old as time" to life on our stage.

We will learn, rehearse, and bring to life the music, choreography, and story, culminating in a series of public performances. No matter your experience level, Beauty and the Beast promises an incredible adventure, where you’ll gain new skills and feel the thrill of being part of a big production.

Note: This is a year long course.

Embark on an exciting journey to learn Spanish, tailored for all abilities from beginners to advanced learners! This inclusive course ensures every student progresses at their own pace, aligning with Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles and New Zealand curriculum levels 1-5.

Through interactive activities, you’ll develop skills in speaking, listening, reading, and writing Spanish while exploring the rich cultures of Spanish-speaking countries. Learn to cook, dance, make arts & crafts typically found in this amazing culture. A unique incentive awaits—students who advance through the levels will have the opportunity to join our senior school trip to Spain, enriching their language experience with real-world immersion.

Join us and open the door to a global community!

Unleash Your Inner Sports Expert! 

Ready to take your love for sports way beyond the field? This isn't just another P.E. class! Our exciting, hands-on programme dives deep into the science and strategy that makes elite athletes tick.

You'll explore the fascinating world of high-level performance and sports management. Get ready to uncover:

• Mind Games: Learn about Sports Psychology—discover how athletes use motivation, focus, and mental toughness to win. You'll figure out what makes a champion's mind different!
• The Science of Movement: Dive into Physiology and Biomechanics. Understand how your muscles, heart, and lungs work during exercise, and learn the physics behind the perfect throw, jump, or kick.
• Beyond the Player: Explore Roles and Responsibilities within the sports world. Do you want to be a top coach, a world-class trainer, a savvy manager, or a sports analyst? Learn the leadership, teamwork, and organisational skills needed for success in any sports career.

Why Choose This Course?

• Gain a Competitive Edge: Whether you play sports or just love watching them, you’ll get the insider knowledge that others miss.
• Boost Your Future: This course is a brilliant launchpad for careers in coaching, fitness, health, sports media, and even medicine or engineering.
• It’s Not Just Theory: We keep it active and engaging with practical activities, case studies on real athletes, and challenges that put you in the driver's seat.

If you're curious about why athletes perform the way they do, and you want to understand the secrets behind every victory, this is the course for you!

Year 9 and 10 STEM Environmental

Restoring Native New Zealand habitats.

We will dive into real-world environmental challenges, learning about our unique flora and fauna and the threats they face. 

You become young problem-solvers by:

• Designing smart solutions for pest control and predator-free initiatives.
• Investigating the science behind habitat restoration and native plant growth.
• Using technology to monitor wildlife and track conservation efforts.

Join us to empower the next generation of kaitiaki (guardians) with the skills to protect our precious backyard. It's an adventure in science that makes a real difference!

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completion of this class, students will be able to:

1. Identify and Differentiate: Identify key native New Zealand flora and fauna species and differentiate between major invasive pests (e.g., rats, stoats, possums) and native species.
2. Apply Scientific Principles: Apply basic scientific principles (e.g., food webs, population dynamics, ecological balance) to explain why pest control and habitat restoration are essential for the survival of native species.
3. Design and Engineer Solutions: Design and construct a simple STEM solution (e.g., a predator tracking tunnel, a protective plant guard, or a model habitat layout) that addresses a specific challenge in NZ habitat restoration.
4. Evaluate and Propose Actions: Evaluate the effectiveness of different pest control methods (e.g., trapping vs. baiting) and propose a reasoned conservation action plan for a hypothetical local habitat.

This course provides an ideal opportunity for students interested in science, the environment, and New Zealand's rich landscape to gain foundational knowledge and hands-on experience.

Nau mai, haere mai! Welcome to our Junior Māori Performing Arts Programme, where you’ll dive into the dynamic world of Māori culture and performance in a safe and supportive learning environment where the Māori value of ‘manaakitanga’ (showing support and guidance towards each other) is one of the main cultural values encouraged at all times.

This is an introductory level course which will offer you an exciting basic introduction to the world of Māori performing arts. You will get a taste for various aspects of kapa haka, including mōteatea (traditional chants), waiata (songs), poi, haka, and waiata ā-ringa (action songs). Through these activities, you will learn about the history and cultural significance of Māori performing arts, developing basic performance skills and an understanding of Māori culture. 

If you’re feeling a bit shy about joining Māori performing arts, don’t worry! You can start by participating informally, just for fun. It’s a great way to build confidence, connect with friends, and enjoy the rich traditions of Māori culture in a relaxed and supportive environment. Give it a try—you might discover a new passion!  Students are also welcome to be part of the well established wider school Kapa Haka performance group which is an optional extra curricular activity.  Plus, if you continue with Māori Performing Arts (MPA) into senior school, you’ll get the chance to join a North Island trip to Waitangi Bay of Islands. 

In the words of renowned native speaker and reo champion, Sir Tīmoti Karetū, te reo Māori needs to be heard far and wide, it needs to flow freely (kia rere), be correct (kia tika) and be normalised and authentic (kia māori)  - Ko te reo kia rere, ko te reo kia tika, ko te reo kia Māori.  

Learning te reo Māori isn’t just about language—it’s a gateway to our rich indigenous cultural heritage of Aotearoa. You will learn more about yourself and your classmates’ cultures while exploring Māori culture too. This course is designed for everyone, whether you’re completely new to te reo Māori or already know quite a lot.

You will develop skills in reading, writing, speaking, and listening in te reo Māori. We’ll start with the basics, like introducing yourself, and work up to having real-life conversations. You’ll be able to go at your own pace, with activities and resources that fit your style—think games, media/videos, hands-on projects, and interactive digital tools and place based learning experiencing our local Marae. You will get to learn more about the language revitalisation movement and the who’s who in te ao Māori/Māoridom.  Plus, if you continue learning te reo Māori into senior school, you’ll get the chance to join a North Island trip to Waitangi Bay of Islands.

Explore using various types of materials and techniques to produce Visual Art driven towards your own ideas. 

Are you interested in collage, craft, or crochet? Explore how you can use these to produce a cohesive body of resolved art works in 2D format, using established artists to support your exploration. We will explore painting, collage, print making techniques, amongst others. This class builds your technical skills, and will support your theory knowledge and concept development to progress your understanding and learning. 

You can choose this course at any experience level - if you have any questions please speak to Miss Miller.

You will learn technical skills such as print processes like cyanotype, developing acrylic painting skills, linocut, refining drawing skills, and documenting your process and ideas. You will have the opportunity to extend and refine your art skills to produce a resolved piece of work, and document your processes while you do this. Delve into existing artists, research your ideas, and have the opportunity to display your work to an audience.

If you have any questions please speak to Miss Miller.

Wood Tech - Y10

The objective is to develop a more advanced skill set and continue to further develop your knowledge of technological processes. The course will include Design, workshop practices and technical drawing. Students will also learn how to interpret plans and further extend critical thinkin

Jnr Technology is interesting, forward-thinking, fun and gives the basic skills to take into our senior programs.

There is a focus on developing the skills necessary for students to pursue career pathways in Building, Engineering and associated trades. We work with Industry Training Organisations such as the BCITO and Tools 4 Work (Engineering) giving a broad range of associated trades. There is also the inclusion of Design in our senior school. There is enhancement through the Careers Dept with students doing short courses at ARA and Gateway work placements.

Note: This course has a $30 materials cost for take home projects

This course provides students with foundational knowledge and hands on skills in business planning and personal finance. Through engaging activities and real-world applications, students will develop an understanding of market strategies and gain essential life skills for managing their financial futures.