Southern Cross Campus

In year 9 art we will explore and create images related to our own culture, interests and identity. We will also grow our knowledge of contemporary and traditional artists. This course involves exploring drawing, painting, design and printmaking. We learn to develop our own creative ideas and grow our confidence working with a range of techniques and materials. 

This is a 10-week long course, which introduces the concepts involved in Business Studies, Accounting & Economics. It provides students with an opening to life skills of money and its management. This course enables the students to choose the NCEA Commerce subjects of Business Studies, Accounting & Economics that leads to degrees in Commerce, Law and Business.

Skills:  Students require basic literacy and numeracy skills. It requires students to be able to work in a team and enhance their co-operative skills

Introduction to basic Economic concepts

Personal Accounting

Business Plan

In this class you will learn the foundational movements and techniques of a few selected dance forms.  You will also gain understanding regarding the dance elements and a few basic choreographic techniques and skills.

You will have opportunity to perform in front of a live audience and develop performance skills, as well as work in groups on choreography and ensemble dances.

You will also learn the drama elements and how to effectively use these elements. You will have the opportunity to work in groups to create devised drama pieces as well as perform dramas in front of a live audience.  

Students will learn the basic foundational skills for design and visual communication in this course, including:

- Freehand sketching

- 2D and 3D drawing skills

- Drawing using computer programmes (Sketch Up)

- Logo design

Year 9 Digital Art we will explore and create images related to our own culture, interests and identity. We will also grow our knowledge of contemporary and traditional artists. This course involves exploring drawing, illustration and photography. We learn to develop our own creative ideas and grow our confidence working with a range of techniques and materials. 

This course enables learners to explore art making using digital processes and skills such as Photography and Design. Learners will learn digital photography and design techniques such as Photoshop and Illustrator.

This course enables learners to explore art making using digital processes and skills such as Photography and Design. Learners will learn digital photography and design techniques such as Photoshop and Illustrator.

Unleash Your Digital Creativity: Year 9 Digital Technologies

Calling all tech explorers!  This exciting course unlocks the world of digital technologies, empowering you to be a responsible and creative digital citizen.

Get ready to:

• Be a Digital Superhero: Learn about responsible online behavior, data privacy, and cyber safety.
• Become a Coding Master:  Explore the world of block programming with Scratch, bringing your ideas to life with fun, interactive animations and games.
• Control the Microbit World:  Use Microbits, tiny programmable computers, to build robots, create light shows, and control real-world objects!

Why Choose This Course?

• Learn by Doing:  Dive into hands-on projects that combine coding, creativity, and problem-solving.
• Make a Difference: Develop the skills to use technology responsibly and ethically.
• Have Fun & Be Creative:  Express yourself through interactive projects and discover the potential of technology.
• Build a Strong Foundation:  This course sets the stage for further exploration in coding, robotics, and digital innovation.

Year 9 Digital Technologies is for students who are curious about technology and want to use it to create amazing things. Let's explore the digital world together and unleash your creativity!

The Year 9 English course links what students have learned at primary/intermediate school to the skills specifically needed to do well at NCEA level . The course covers all the main strands of the English curriculum - written , speaking and visual. Students have the opportunity to use their own skills to create texts and respond to texts . 

The Food industry produces and supplies a range of food products to meet people’s needs and opportunity daily. The industry is continually developing, improving, processing and producing food to keep the customers satisfied.

Food Technology consists of both theoretical and practical units, which are closely related.

The aims of the units are intended to further develop basic skills in the areas of food preparation and service. Students also become fully aware of the correct methods of food handling, storage and hygiene requirements for the home and the Hospitality Industry. Students will examine the role of food and its nutritional components, effects of poor nutrition and investigate means of improving nutritional status.

Year 9 Mathematics is designed around Level 4 of the New Zealand Curriculum, with extension into Levels 5 and 6 where appropriate. Students develop a solid understanding of core concepts across three main strands: Number and Algebra; Geometry and Measurement; Statistics and Probability.
Emphasis is placed on developing mathematical reasoning, problem-solving, and effective communication of ideas. Assessment is carried out using easTTle tests (digital), formative and summative assessments. For students needing support, the course addresses any gaps in foundational knowledge, while extension opportunities challenge those ready to progress further.

By the end of Year 9, students are equipped with a comprehensive foundation for future study, prepared to move confidently into Year 10 mathematics and beyond.

This is an introductory course designed to continue with work begun in Year 7 and 8 Music Extensions, and to lead to further study in Year 10 and on into NCEA

Course objectives

Theory  Over the semester you will learn about

- Elements of music

- Notation

- Use of different websites e.g. ableton, teoria, hooktheory

Aural Skills  You will have regular ear training exercises in recognizing rhythms, melodies, intervals and chords

Performance   You will have the opportunity to learn Guitar, Ukulele and Keyboard skills, and you will be assessed in group and solo performance. You will take part in class and group singing opportunities.

Composition  You will create  and represent music for a film aand record it.

Students in Year 9 will be introduced to physical education and hauora through PE and Health.  

Topics covered in PE are:

Games of the World - Fundamental skills transferred over to a diverse set of activities.

Sport Studies - Benefits of being active through engagement and participation

Skill Improvement - Goal setting and improving technical skill.

Personal Identity - Identifying strengths – limitations to improve physical self and well-being.

Topics covered in Health are:

Introduction To Hauora - Four Dimensions of health

Nutrition - How Nutrition and life style affect our hauora

Social Media - Good understanding of safe use of social media

Hei Huarahi - Diversity, stereotypes and gender issues

Making Safe Choices - Decision making strategies to keep safe

In Year 9, Samoan is a Term course only and will have new students for each of the Terms during the year. This is an introductory course to Gagana Samoa, where students will start with commonly used expressions in class and learning to understand and create simple paragraphs using their knowledge of Samoan Language. Students will learn to greet and respond to greetings in Samoan, learn about family and family relationships, learn about their school and other topics that will be used as a vehicle to learn the Samoan Language. Cultural knowledge and values will also be explored through reading, listening, speaking and conversing using simple Samoan language. Learning is fun in Year 9 where games will be used a lot as a way of teaching and acquiring the language. 

The Year 9 Science involves generating and testing ideas and gathering evidence to understand, explain, and develop knowledge about the natural world. Scientists do this by making observations, carrying out investigations and modeling, communicating, and debating with others.

 Science learning is theoretical and practical. It has diverse areas of specialization with internationally recognized symbols, languages, and conventions. Through developing science literacies and inquiry methods, and understanding different knowledge systems and perspectives, ākonga will be further empowered to make decisions and take action in an ever-changing local and global landscape.

The year 9 science course is a direct reflection from the Level 4 New Zealand Curriculum and it prepares students for the National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA) senior science courses. It also prepares students to develop an understanding of the world around them. The year 9 Science course includes 7 Big Ideas which students have to understand.

 As we explore the Big Ideas, we will learn aspects of the following:

•  The Nature of Science
• The Nature of Mixtures
• The Nature of Matter
• The Importance of Waves
• Energy and its Transfer
• Life and the Taiao
• Life of Plants

Social studies is important to the whole community. It emphasises the skills and processes involved in social participation, which, along with the prescribed settings and perspectives, will help students to become informed, confident, and effective citizens. Students will be challenged to think clearly and critically about human behaviour and to explore different values and viewpoints. An emphasis is placed on learning about New Zealand society and the countries and regions that have significance for New Zealand. 

Identity, Culture, and Organisation – Students learn about society and communities and how they function. They also learn about the diverse cultures and identities of people within those communities and about the effects of these on the participation of groups and individuals.

Place and Environment – Students learn about how people perceive, represent, interpret, and interact with places and environments. They come to understand the relationships that exist between people and the environment.

Continuity and Change – Students learn about past events, experiences, and actions and the changing ways in which these have been interpreted over time. This helps them to understand the past and the present and to imagine possible futures.

The Economic World – Students learn about the ways in which people participate in economic activities and about the consumption, production, and distribution of goods and services. They develop an understanding of their role in the economy and of how economic decisions affect individuals and communities.

In Year 9, te Reo Maori is a half year, one semester course that focuses on developing communication skills in te Reo Māori. Students are learning to cope with a variety of routine situations when talking to speaker of te reo Māori. They can use familiar language with some flexibility and pick up some new language from its context. They can read and write simple notes and short letters and fill out simple forms. They can use and respond to language, including directions and requests, that is likely to occur in familiar Māori settings.  All topics  will be assessed summatively, at the end of each unit through one of the receptive language modes of Korero (K), Whakarongo (Wh) and the productive language modes of Panui (P) and Tuhituhi

In Year 9, Tongan is a Term course only and will have new students for each of the Terms during the year. This is an introductory course to Tongan, where students will start with commonly used expressions in class and learning to understand and create simple paragraphs using their knowledge of Tongan Language. Students will learn to greet and respond to greetings in Tongan, learn about family and family relationships, learn about their school and other topics that will be used as a vehicle to learn the Tongan Language. Cultural knowledge and values will also be explored through reading, listening, speaking and conversing using simple Tongan language. Learning is fun in Year 9 where games will be used a lot as a way of teaching and acquiring the language.

Year 10 art introduces students to NCEA visual art. Students learn a variety of skills relating to drawing, painting and contemporary art making processes. Students learn how to analyse art works and are exposed to a range of artist models. They learn how to develop their ideas to create personal art works. Group work is promoted and students are encouraged to work effectively with others.

This course enables learners to explore art making using digital processes and skills such as Photography and Design. Learners will learn digital photography and design techniques such as Photoshop and Illustrator.

This course is for learners with an interest in photography, design, animation, marketing, advertising, gaming, fashion design, architecture, illustration, branding, interior design, visual communications, and other creative careers.
Some of the types of things that learners have created during this course are logo designs, comic books, magazine layouts, posters, t-shirt designs, billboards, photo exhibitions.....

Year 10 Art Digital is highly recommended for students considering Year 11 Art Digital

In year 10 art we will explore and create images related to our own culture, interests and identity. We will also grow our knowledge of contemporary and traditional artists. This course involves exploring drawing, painting, design and printmaking. We learn to develop our own creative ideas and grow our confidence working with a range of techniques and materials. 

Year 10 Art is highly recommended for students considering Year 11 Art.

This is a yearlong course, which introduces the concepts involved in Accounting, Economics and Business Studies. It provides students an opening to life skills of money and its management. This course enables the students to choose the NCEA Commerce subjects of Business Studies, Accounting & Economics. They will end the year by doing their first NCEA standard.

Skills:  Students require basic literacy and numeracy skills. It requires students to be able to work in a team and enhance their co-operative skills

Introduction to basic Economic concepts

Financial  Accounting

Business Studies  

Demonstrate understanding of making a decision

In this class you will learn the foundational movements and techniques of various dance forms from contemporary, jazz and hip hop.  You will also gain understanding regarding the dance elements and basic choreographic techniques and skills.

You will have opportunity to perform in front of a live audience and develop performance skills, as well as work in groups on choreography and ensemble dances.

In this course, students will learn the following skills and techniques:

• Freehand sketching and colour theory
• Instrumental drawings
• Three-Dimensional drawings
• 3D and 2D S rendering techniques
• 2D and 3D design/development model
• Digital design; Sketch-up design
• Architectural & orthographic drawing

In Year 10 Digital Technology, get ready to unleash your creativity and problem-solving skills! You'll explore the exciting world behind the technology you use every day, from word processing and database skills, to website and game development.

Here's what you can expect:

• Coding Adventures:  Learn the secret language of computers (code!) to build your own programs and animations.
• Website Wizards:  Uncover the magic behind websites, learning how to design and develop your own online space.
• App Inventors:  Turn your ideas into reality by exploring the world of app development.
• Office Skills: Create and manage documents using a variety of office tools.
• Digital Detectives:  Demystify how the internet works and learn how to navigate the digital world safely and responsibly.
• Creative Challenges:  Combine your coding skills with design thinking to create innovative digital solutions.

This is your chance to become a digital maker, not just a consumer. Get ready to have fun, be challenged, and discover the potential of technology in your future!

Students will upgrade their application of acting skills through developing their improvisation, physical interpretation and ability to follow scripted and directorial instructions. Students will learn discipline and control over use of drama techniques (voice, body, movement and space) as well as develop their drama literacy.

Students will demonstrate understanding of scripted contexts and production design choices. They will reflect upon and interpret work from other practitioners by evaluating the intend effects of the production technologies such as set, costume, lighting, make up, staging and music.

Year 10 English is the stepping stone to success at NCEA Level 1. Students who can master the skills required in Year 10 English will have developed a strong foundation for doing well in their NCEA Studies. The course covers all three strands of the English curriculum - oral , visual and written. Students are given the opportunity to develop their skills through creating their own pieces of written, visual and oral texts and also responding to a range of texts. 

This course is a step up from Year 9 Technology. It focuses on the development of food related products, which address a technological problem. The course may use other materials or concepts from alternative technologies in an innovative way.  Students will apply their knowledge of the technology process to investigate an issue and develop an outcome which meets the requirements of an identified stakeholder or client. The research into their issue may include working in consultation with other learning areas of the school. Practical skills, product trials and the manufacture of the final concept form a major component of this course. Students will be required to present a portfolio documenting their process and providing evidence of their learning. Both practical product and portfolio contribute to assessment.

Year 10 Mathematics in New Zealand secondary schools is designed to extend and deepen the mathematical knowledge, skills, and thinking developed throughout previous years. The course aligns primarily with Level 5 of the New Zealand Curriculum, with opportunities for extension into Level 6 where appropriate. 

The course enables students to:

• Develop skills in Number, Algebra, Geometry, Measurement, Statistics, and Probability
• Solve realistic and practical problems in a range of meaningful contexts
• Reason logically, think abstractly, and use mathematical language to communicate ideas
• Build confidence for NCEA Level 1 Mathematics and Statistics in Year 11Numeracy Co-requisite: In Semester 2, all Year 10 students will complete the Numeracy Co-requisite, a foundational assessment required for NCEA. This component ensures students are equipped with essential numeracy skills necessary for success in senior secondary school and beyond. Preparation and targeted support will be provided throughout the course to help students meet this requirement. Success in Year 10 Mathematics provides a strong foundation for future study, including entry into NCEA Level 1 Mathematics & Statistics.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

Welcome to Year 10 Music. Year 10 Music is a whole year preparation course for Level 1 NCEA and follows on from the basic skills and knowledge you acquired in Year 9. You will develop skills and knowledge in:

Musical Knowledge (theory, score reading and music research)

• Performance (group and solo performing)
• Aural Awareness (aurally identify music)
• Composition (compose your own songs)

Students in Year 10 will be introduced to physical education and hauora through PE and Health.  

Topics covered in PE are:

Skills Interpersonal - Developing a range of skills to participate appropriately with others in a physical activity

Sport Education - Experiencing a range of roles within sport

Skill Improvement - Goal setting and performance analysis

Biomechanics  - How the body works, skeleton, muscles, movements including fitness components

Topics covered in Health are:

Introduction to Hauora - Four Dimensions of health

Maintaining Hauora - Promoting what’s good for our well-being

Space Invaders – Importance of hygiene and infections

Body Safe – Characteristics of a positive friendship and relationships

Substance Issues – Use information about substances to make safe choices

This course is in line with level 4 of the Learning Languages Curriculum. Students will continue to build on what they have learned in Year 9. In addition, students will learn to construct simple texts, and describe aspects of their own background and immediate environment and to express and respond to personal needs and interests. Topics like Extended Family, Food preparation, Weather, Directions, Myths and Legends are just some of the topics students will be studying and talk about using Samoan language. The skills of listening, speaking, reading, writing will be an integral part of their learning and students will be assessed on these skills. It is hoped that students of Samoan, at the completion of this course will learn to appreciate their culture, values and its relevance to their everyday life. Gagana Samoa in this level is a Semester course. 

The Year 10 Science involves generating and testing ideas and gathering evidence to understand, explain, and develop knowledge about the natural world. Scientists do this by making observations, carrying out investigations and modeling, and communicating and debating with others.

 Science learning is theoretical and practical. It has diverse areas of specialization with internationally recognized symbols, language, and conventions. Through developing science literacies and inquiry methods, and understanding different knowledge systems and perspectives, ākonga will be further empowered to make decisions and take action in an ever-changing local and global landscape.

The year 10 science course is a direct reflection from the Level 5 New Zealand Curriculum and it prepares students for the National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA) senior science courses. It also prepares students to develop an understanding of the world around them. The year 10 Science course includes 7 Big Ideas which students have to understand.

 As we explore the Big Ideas, we will learn aspects of the following:

•  The Nature of the Atoms
• The Basis of Reactions
• The Basis of Heredity
• Life of Microbes
• Forces and Motion
• Electricity and Magnetism
• Fuels & Climate Change

Social studies is important to the whole community. It emphasises the skills and processes involved in social participation, which, along with the prescribed settings and perspectives, will help students to become informed, confident, and effective citizens. Students will be challenged to think clearly and critically about human behaviour and to explore different values and viewpoints. An emphasis is placed on learning about New Zealand society and the countries and regions that have significance for New Zealand. 

Identity, Culture, and Organisation – Students learn about society and communities and how they function. They also learn about the diverse cultures and identities of people within those communities and about the effects of these on the participation of groups and individuals.

Place and Environment – Students learn about how people perceive, represent, interpret, and interact with places and environments. They come to understand the relationships that exist between people and the environment.

Continuity and Change – Students learn about past events, experiences, and actions and the changing ways in which these have been interpreted over time. This helps them to understand the past and the present and to imagine possible futures.

The Economic World – Students learn about the ways in which people participate in economic activities and about the consumption, production, and distribution of goods and services. They develop an understanding of their role in the economy and of how economic decisions affect individuals and communities.

In Year 10, te Reo Maori is a full year course that focuses on developing communication skills in te Reo Māori. Students are expected to learn a variety of routine situations when talking to speaker of te Reo Māori. They can use familiar language with some flexibility and pick up some new language from its context. They can read and write simple notes and short letters and fill out simple forms. They can use and respond to language, including directions and requests, that is likely to occur in familiar Māori settings. In the process of learning, students will become more confident in using a range of language learning strategies. All topics or units of work will be assessed summatively, at the end of each unit through one of the receptive language modes of Korero (K), Whakarongo (Wh) and the productive language modes of Panui (P) and Tuhituhi (T).  

This course is in line with level 4 of the Learning Languages Curriculum. Students will continue to build on what they have learned in Year 9. In addition, students will learn to construct simple texts, and describe aspects of their own background and immediate environment and to express and respond to personal needs and interests. Topics like Extended Family, Food preparation, Weather, Directions, Myths and Legends are just some of the topics students will be studying and talk about using Tongan language. The skills of listening, speaking, reading, writing will be an integral part of their learning and students will be assessed on these skills. It is hoped that students of Tongan, at the completion of this course will learn to appreciate their culture, values and its relevance to their everyday life.

Students will upgrade their application of acting skills through developing their improvisation, physical interpretation and ability to follow scripted and directorial instructions. Students will learn discipline and control over use of drama techniques (voice, body, movement and space) as well as develop their drama literacy.

Students will demonstrate understanding of scripted contexts and production design choices. They will reflect upon and interpret work from other practitioners by evaluating the intend effects of the production technologies such as set, costume, lighting, make up, staging and music.

This course enables learners to explore art making using digital processes and skills such as Photography and Design. Learners will learn digital photography and design techniques such as Photoshop and Illustrator.

Students will go on a series of trips that are that are curriculum focused.

This course is for learners with an interest in photography, design, animation, marketing, advertising, gaming, fashion design, architecture, illustration, branding, interior design, visual communications, and other creative careers.
Some of the types of things that learners have created during this course are logo designs, comic books, magazine layouts, posters, t-shirt designs, billboards, photo exhibitions.....

This course is NCEA Achievement Standards and learners are able to get course endorsements.
This course leads to Level 2 and 3 and is University Approved.

The graduate vision statement for Visual Arts Students is “I am an artist and critical thinker, able to work collaboratively and develop innovative visual ideas in the creation of quality creative products.”

This course is recommended for students who already know that they enjoy art and would like to complete a full year course to gain 20 credits. Students will develop a range of art skills in this course including research, drawing, painting, and printmaking. They will learn how to  explore Māori Taonga (traditional Māori art works) and images relating to their own personal culture and interests. Students will develop ideas to create their own individual artworks that incorporate personal interests.

Year 9 or 10 Art is recommended for students considering Level 1 Art. Full Year course. 

This course is highly recommended for students who are considering Level 2 Painting, Level 2 Printmaking, Level 2 Design and Level 2 Photography.

This Year 11 Biological Science course aims to develop your knowledge and understanding of science and its relevance to society, through both theory and practical work and to prepare you for success in NCEA Level 1 Science assessments. You will develop your ability to analyse information, problem-solve, apply knowledge to new situations and you will improve your intellectual, creative and critical thinking. Experimental work will be infiltrated throughout the course to support understanding of scientific ideas as well as further develop practical skills.

This course is comprised of four Level 1 Achievement Standards in Science, Biology, and Chemistry worth a maximum total of 21 credits. As we explore the achievement standards, we will learn aspects of the following:

• Investigative Approaches
• Types of reactions
• Chemical formulae
• Genetics
• Ecology 
• Biodiversity

A basic insight into Macro-economic concepts and business concepts involving setting up and running a business and gaining credits through Business studies standards leading towards Services and Social community pathways.

This course is an introduction to carpentry and construction. Students will gain theoretical knowledge and practical skills through the construction of practical projects. Leads to Level 2 Construction. Level 1 Construction must be taken if you intend to be considered for Level 2 Construction. It’s an innovative, practical and multi-disciplinary programme for students, providing them with the skills and knowledge to springboard into any career in the construction industry. Additionally, students develop literacy, numeracy, and communication skills. 

A creative and physical outlet for students to express themselves through Dance. Students will describe, analyse and extend their understanding of dance in the many different forms it holds. Students will learn to create dance by a means of intention, purpose, inspiration and imagination. The career pathway for students is to continue into L2 & L3 with options of scholarship opportunities for the gifted who seek dance at a tertiary level. This subject is UE approved and offers literacy credits in the external exam. 

Specific skills learned  

Choreographic Intention – meaning of dance

Choreographic Devices – how to create a dance

Genres or forms of Dance – styles of dance such as Hip Hop or Contemporary Dance

Group work – creating choreography in a group 

Duets – working with a partner

Dance Elements – Time, Space, Energy, Relationships (Components that make a dance)

This program offers you an opportunity to create inspiring environmental friendly projects that are practical and hands-on. It will help you construct and design buildings/homes using 3D visual drawings both traditional and digital. This course is for you if you have a passion for being a critical thinker, a solver, a planner or even a person who would one day think of becoming an entrepreneur.  This programme will help you to develop personal perspective and will cover the following assignments:

Portfolio design
presentation
Out-door chair design/product design
Sleep-out design/spatial design

**** Please note, that this is a WHOLE YEAR COURSE ****

Unleash Your Digital Power: Year 11 Digital Technologies

Calling all tech enthusiasts! This dynamic course will equip you with the skills to navigate the exciting world of digital technologies. Get ready to code, design, and analyze your way to success!

What You'll Learn:

• Python Programming: Master the fundamentals of this powerful language to build interactive programs and solve real-world problems.
• Website Design & Development:  Learn to craft engaging and user-friendly websites, from basic layouts to interactive elements.
• Usability Heuristics:  Discover the secrets of creating intuitive and user-centered designs that are a joy to use.
• Digital Creativity:  Combine your coding and design skills to develop innovative digital solutions.

Why Choose This Course?

• Develop In-Demand Skills: Learn practical skills that are highly sought after in today's job market.
• Gain a Competitive Edge: Impress universities and potential employers with your diverse digital skillset.
• Embrace Problem-Solving:  Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills through hands-on projects.
• Boost Your Creativity:  Explore your digital potential and turn your ideas into reality.
• Build a Strong Foundation:  This course provides a solid base for further studies in computer science, web development, and more.

Year 11 Digital Technologies is for students who are passionate about technology and eager to explore its potential. Get ready to become a digital innovator!

In this class, you will also have the opportunity to be part of the Pathways in Technology (PTECH) programme. P-TECH (Pathways in Technology) is a high school/early tertiary program focusing on developing digital skills and job-ready students. It is a partnership between business, high school, and tertiary education.  The pathway is five years, focusing on NCEA Digital Technologies at high school and an Advanced Diploma in tertiary. P-TECH links student learning to the world of work and entry-level roles. As well as technical learning, students also gain opportunities to build work-ready skills, like communication, problem-solving, resilience, self-management and working in teams.

This course is comprised predominantly of internal assessments and externals.  It comprises of a range of achievement standards that will give you L1 Literacy.  This is a full year course.  Students will be assessed on their understanding of written and visual and/or oral language.  Students will develop their ability to read, write and communicate.  Literacy in English gives students access to the understanding, knowledge and skills they need to participate fully in the social, cultural, political, and economic life of New Zealand and the wider world.

This will develop your English reading, writing and speaking skills. You can earn EL (English Language) credits at NCEA Level 1, and some students may do assessments at Level 2 or 3.

This course will involve learning to write, to speak, to read and to converse in Gagama Samoa relatively well. An important component of the course is learning about their culture and key events in the history of their nation. Students are expected to understand and produce more complex language. They can communicate using present, past and future tenses. Students can understand and produce a variety of text types. Skills of reading, speaking, listening, writing, conversing, presenting, expressing and justifying own opinions will all be taught.  There will be 2 Standards assessed as Internal Assessment and 2 standards will be externally assessed in November. After Semester 1, an option will be given to students to take other new subjects and we may have new learners of the language in class who will repeat what was offered in Semester 1. Those who will opt to take new subjects are still given the opportunity to take the Externals in Gagana Samoa provided they do attend the revision sessions in Term 4. 

The Year 11 Geography course will offer a view of the physical and cultural (human) world. We will look at interactions between people and the world in which we live. Year 11 Geography will cover issues that we face at national and global levels as well as looking at solutions to these issues. We will be identifying perspectives and how we can adopt new technologies to improve the world around us. We will investigate 4 main themes (Weather and Climate, Extreme Natural Events, Population and Enviromental management)

Level 1 Geography involves the detailed study of topics including:

• Natural hazards such as Cyclone Gabriella and Tonga eruption: Plate tectonics, extreme natural events, such as earthquakes, volcanoes, tropical cyclones and tsunamis
• Different populations such as China, New Zealand, Pacific Islands: migration, distribution and density
• Global Population: Megacities such as New York, Tokyo and Lagos.
• Our local environment: Auckland and the Hauraki
• Modelling of tsunamis and urban issues.
• Weather and climate patterns. 
• Local and global river environments
• Conducting geographic fieldwork – understanding and studying weather 
• Study of a New Zealand or Pacific geographic challenge 
• The skills and knowledge Geography students acquire at this level will help them at Level 2 Geography

Field trips are an important part of the Geography curriculum. There will be at least one day trip (with added costs) during the year to support learning.

The standards and topics offered in this course may be altered at the discretion of the Teacher in Charge.

Health Studies is a course designed for students who are passionate about promoting well-being and creating positive change within their communities. It explores key areas such as food and nutrition, mental health, and relationships and sexuality, all examined through the lens of hauora—the Māori model of well-being.

The course follows the NCEA Level 1 Health guidelines and encourages students to think critically about health issues that impact individuals, whānau, and wider society. Place-based learning is a key feature of the programme, where real-world contexts like Polyfest are woven into learning activities and assessments to make learning authentic, engaging, and relevant.

Students will develop skills in evaluating health-related situations, recommending strategies for change, promoting positive messages around sexuality and relationships, and managing well-being in a range of situations. This course includes a strong literacy component and an external examination in Semester 2.

History offers an understanding of human activities in the past in the context of change through time. Entering into other times and places challenges students to think about continuity and change, similarities and differences, cause and effect. History enables students to understand their heritage and that of their community, society and nation. It also gives greater insight into the future shape of the world we inhabit. History is highly recommended for Law, Journalism and Politics. 

History involves the comprehensive study of three topics from the twentieth century:

• Crisis and Compromise – Rise of Nazi Germany
• Voices of Change - New Zealand and World war two
• Monarchy evolution - Henry VIII

Besides learning about important events, people and places, students will be given the opportunity to develop a broad range of skills including: gathering and selecting information from a variety of sources, recognising specific points of view, bias and propaganda, comprehending and using historical relationships, presenting an argument and supporting it with well-chosen evidence and reasoned conclusions.

For students who wish to study History at Level 2 or Level 3, it is highly recommended that Level 1 History is taken.

The standards and topics offered in this course may be altered at the discretion of the Head of Department.

This course will introduce you to the knowledge and skills needed for a career in the hospitality industry. Through a combination of practical and theoy-based work, you will learn about the different career pathways available in the industry, as well as gain basic skills including preparing and presenting a variety of dishes, and knife skills. You will also gain real industry experience in catering for school functions, and through working in the school café.

This course will involve learning to write, to speak, to read and to converse in Tongan language relatively well. An important component of the course is learning about their culture and key events in the history of their nation. Students are expected to understand and produce more complex language. They can communicate using present, past and future tenses. Students can understand and produce a variety of text types. Skills of reading, speaking, listening, writing, conversing, presenting, expressing and justifying own opinions will all be taught.  There will be 2 Standards assessed as Internal Assessment and 2 standards will be externally assessed in November. After Semester 1, an option will be given to students to take other new subjects and we may have new learners of the language in class who will repeat what was offered in Semester 1. 

Welcome to Music at Level One. This is an opportunity for students to develop their interest, skills and knowledge in music.

Specific skills learned  

PERFORMANCE: You will develop skills on your chosen instrument, (through our itinerant programme and practical music sessions) in order to perform music as a soloist and as a member of a group.

COMPOSITION: You will explore compositional techniques to use in creating 2 pieces of original music.

AURAL PERCEPTION: You will develop aural skills through regular practice over the year, enabling you to transcribe music.

The aim of this course is for students to develop knowledge and understanding of the methods and ideas which underpin photography practice.  The course seeks to encourage investigation into established art practice and the exploration of practical ideas through a series of internally assessed assignments.  Skills using Adobe Creative Suite programs such as Photoshop, InDesign, Lightroom and Premiere Pro will be developed.

Students will go on a series of trips that are that are curriculum focused.

This course is for learners with an interest in photography, design, animation, marketing, advertising, gaming, fashion design, architecture, illustration, branding, interior design, visual communications, and other creative careers.
Some of the types of things that learners have created during this course are logo designs, comic books, magazine layouts, posters, t-shirt designs, billboards, photo exhibitions.....

This course is NCEA Achievement Standards.
This course leads to Level 2 and 3 Photography and is University Approved.

The graduate vision statement for Visual Arts Students is “I am an artist and critical thinker, able to work collaboratively and develop innovative visual ideas in the creation of quality creative products.”

Learners will complete their 1.1 and 1.2 assessments in Photography

Learners have the opportunity to gain 10 NCEA Level 1 credits in this course.

This course follows the Level 1 NCEA guidelines and prepares the students for further study at Level 2 and Level 3. This course has a high academic focus and would suit students who want to study PE and Sport, rather than just play sport. This pathway leads to University Entrance.

Specific skills learned  

How to get the best out of yourself when taking part in sport.

Learn & manage strategies to improve performance & fitness. 

Learn strategies to become an effective team member.

Learn strategies to lead and organize activities.

Develop confidence to lead others.

Goal setting, problem solving, planning, range of competencies and values. 

improve performance. 

Learn Bio-physical principles to improve performance

This Year 11 Physical Science course aims to develop your knowledge and understanding of science and its relevance to society, through both theory and practical work and to prepare you for success in NCEA Level 1 Science assessments. You will study Chemistry and Physics. You will develop your ability to analyse information, problem-solve, apply knowledge to new situations and you will improve your intellectual, creative and critical thinking. Experimental work will be infiltrated throughout the course to support understanding of scientific ideas as well as further develop practical skills.

This course is comprised of four Level 1 Achievement Standards in Chemistry and Physics worth a maximum total of 21 credits. As we explore the achievement standards we will learn aspects of the following:

• Types of reactions
• Chemical formulae
• Mechanics
• Forces
• Kinetic and Potential Energy
• Thermal Energy
• Electrical Energy
• Investigative Approaches

In this ever-changing world we are experiencing more and more conflict over important local, national, and international issues. We believe that it is important to be able to understand these problems from different perspectives to create long lasting solutions. In Social studies you will have the opportunity to develop the skills required to understand various viewpoints, fully explain your own, and play an active role in society. 

The focus at Level 1 is to develop a sense of global citizenship through the examination of current social issues and cultural change in the 21st Century. Through this subject students will develop their general knowledge, writing and critical thinking skills.

Possible topics are:

• NZ Aotearoa Youth crime
• Culture and identity: Introduction to philosophy and ethics
• Cultural change and positive masculinity/Men's mental health
• Social and environmental challenges in New Zealand today: Participating in a social action project
• Global focus on human rights: Sustainable Development Goals
• Black Lives Matter, Police Brutality, Racism, and Protest.
• Beauty Standards-  inquire into an issue associated with our current perceptions of beauty, including plastic surgery, different perceptions of beauty, child beauty pageants, size zero models, fur in fashion, body image and Instagram models, skin tanning and whitening and so on.
• Prisoners of conscience – the struggle for human rights and social justice (doing a social action).
• Cultural Change e.g. in gender roles. how we protest
• Current events and issues as they arise.

The standards and topics offered in this course may be altered at the discretion of the Head of Department.

This course follows the NCEA Level 1 guidelines. This course will suit students who would have an interest in being a sports leader, a coach, a trainer or manager.  Enjoy supporting their community in organizing and facilitating events and sport activities.  A high level of sports performance is not needed.

Specific skills learned:

How to get the best out of yourself when taking part in sport.

Learn & manage strategies to improve performance & fitness. 

Learn strategies to become an effective team member.

Learn strategies to lead and organize activities.

Develop confidence to lead others.

Goal setting, problem solving, planning, range of competencies and values. 

This course prepares you to gain an understanding of Te Reo Maori me ōna tikanga. It can open opportunities in service industries, primary industries and social community industries.

In Te Reo Maori, you will be working towards gaining Level 1 credits for the National Certificate of Educational achievement. The work you do throughout the year will be assessed in the following ways. Whakarongo- listening, korero- speaking, tuhituhi- writing and panui- reading Te Reo Maori.

  Students will work towards preparation for the NCEA Level 2. . Where possible we will be doing units of work which integrates 2 or more  standards. You will learn skills in creating, interpreting, speaking, reading, designing stage, sets. Organizing productions and various performance skills. Technology units available for sound, lightning, costuming and props. Preparing students for the pathway in Creative industries.

Students will upgrade their application of acting skills through developing their improvisation, physical interpretation and ability to follow scripted and directorial instructions. Students will learn discipline and control over use of drama techniques (voice, body, movement and space) as well as develop their drama literacy.

In level 2 Practical Art we will explore images relating to our own interests and culture and also gain an understanding of practicing artists. We will explore techniques such as drawing, painting, carving and etching. This is a practical class and you will be working a lot with your hands. You will build your skills and confidence with the support of your teacher and peers.  You will also be learning to think like an artist, developing your own ideas to create art works that reflect your identity. 

It is recommended that students complete Level One  or year 10 Art. 

This course is compulsory for students considering Level 3 Practical.

This course provides alternative pathway opportunities and guidance for students to discover and achieve their aspirations in the field of automotive engineering. Students will work towards achieving a National Certificate in automotive Engineering Level 2 qualification through practical and theory courses, site visits and generic employment skills.  Students will also attend a year long course at UNITEC (1 x day per week, 30 weeks – 23 credits).  

The Level 2 Biology program aims to develop your knowledge of the nature of living things and to understand the interconnectedness of evolution to life processes and ecology, and the impact that humans have on all forms of life. You will learn to make more informed decisions about significant biological issues and be made aware of ecological issues that are of significance to New Zealand. 

You will develop the ability to analyze information, problem-solve, and apply knowledge to new situations and you will improve your intellectual, creative, and critical thinking. Experimental work and field trips will be infiltrated throughout the course to support understanding of scientific ideas as well as further develop their practical skills.

This course covers three internal achievement standards and two external standards worth a maximum total of 19 credits. Students will explore the achievement standards and will learn aspects of the following:

• Practical investigation in a biology context, with supervision.
• Pattern in an Ecological Community.
• Life Processes at the Cellular Level
• Adaptations of plants or animals to their way of life
• Genetic Variation and Change

This course covers 3 internal standards and 2 external standards.

Students will be expected to develop scientific and investigative skills, learning to work independently and as part of a team. Activities will challenge your intellectual and creative thinking, give you the opportunity to develop as efficient problem solvers, as well as becoming effective scientific communicators.

Students will explore the achievement standards and will learn aspects of the following:

• oxidation and reduction reactions 
• structure and bonding within substances and how this relates to their properties. 
• quantitative analysis of a substance.
• organic chemistry which investigates the chemistry of carbon compounds.
• what affects how chemicals react.

A basic insight into Macro-economic concepts and business concepts involving setting up and running a business and   gaining credits through Business studies standards leading towards Services and Social community pathways

This course builds on Level 1 Construction. It is designed for students aiming for a career in trades. The course includes both theory and practical units. It leads to Level 3 Construction.

It’s an innovative, practical, and multi-disciplinary programme for students that provides them with the skills and knowledge to springboard into any career in the construction industry. It also helps build skills and understanding across all trades in the construction sector. Additionally, students develop literacy, numeracy, and communication skills.

This course develops skills and understanding based on contemporary, creative and competitive advertising practice.  The course is about being creative about exploring all kinds of different media, experimenting not just with video and social media, but also with activations, and exploring emerging technology.  Students will be taking an active and progressive stance on social issues by creating branded products and services that solve problems that are fresh, creative.

The course is about ideas that surprise, delight, provoke. Ideas that create their own shareability and that can enable the change in culture and behaviour.

The aim of this course is for students to develop knowledge and understanding of the methods and ideas which underpin design practice.  The course seeks to encourage investigation into established art practice and the exploration of practical ideas through a series of internally assessed assignments.  Skills using Adobe Creative Suite programs such as Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator will be developed.   Students will have the opportunity to specialise and immerse themselves in independent practice in a selected study area where digital technology may be incorporated to extend their ideas. Work will be presented through out the year in responses to clients needs.

This course is for learners with an interest in photography, design, animation, marketing, advertising, gaming, fashion design, architecture, illustration, branding, interior design, visual communications, and other creative careers.

Some of the types of things that learners have created during this course are logo designs, comic books, magazine layouts, posters, t-shirt designs, billboards, photo exhibitions.....

This course is NCEA Achievement Standards and learners are able to get course endorsements.

Learners have the opportunity to gain 34 NCEA Level 2 credits in this course.

A creative and physical outlet for students to express themselves through Dance. Students will describe, analyse and extend their understanding of dance in the many different forms it holds. Students will learn to create dance by a means of intention, purpose, inspiration and imagination. The career pathway for students is to continue into L3 with options of scholarship opportunities for the gifted who seek dance at a tertiary level. This subject is UE approved and offers literacy credits in the external exam. 

Specific skills learned  

Choreographic Intention – Meaning of dance

Choreographic Devices – How to create a dance

Genres or forms of Dance – Styles of dance such as Hip Hop or Contemporary Dance

Group work – Creating choreography in a group 

Duets – Working with a partner

Dance Elements – Time, Space, Energy, Relationships (Components that make a dance)

The aim of this course is for students to develop knowledge and understanding of the methods and ideas which underpin design practice.  The course seeks to encourage investigation into established art practice and the exploration of practical ideas through a series of internally assessed assignments.  Skills using Adobe Creative Suite programs such as Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator will be developed.   Students will have the opportunity to specialise and immerse themselves in independent practice in a selected study area where digital technology may be incorporated to extend their ideas. Work will be presented on a two-panel folio board or as a moving image submission for external assessment.

This course is for learners with an interest in photography, design, animation, marketing, advertising, gaming, fashion design, architecture, illustration, branding, interior design, visual communications, and other creative careers.
Some of the types of things that learners have created during this course are logo designs, comic books, magazine layouts, posters, t-shirt designs, billboards, photo exhibitions.....

This course is NCEA Achievement Standards and learners are able to get course endorsements.

Learners will complete their 2.2, 2.3, 2.4 assessments in Design
The 2.4 External assessments are folio boards and are worth 12 credits.
The 2.1 Achievement standards are worked on throughout the year and students have the opportunity to gain 8 literacy credits for these assessments.

Learners have the opportunity to gain 32 NCEA Level 2 credits in this course.

This program offers you an opportunity to create inspiring environmental friendly projects that are practical and hands-on.  It will help you construct and design buildings/homes using a 3D visual drawings both traditional and digital. This course is for you if you have a passion for being a critical thinker, a solver, a planner or even a person who would one day think of becoming an entrepreneur. This programme will help you to develop personal perspective and create the following projects:

Public design/2 bedroom apartment/unit
Design a portfolio: architectural design/interior design/landscape design
Exhibition

Level Up Your Tech Craft: Year 12 Digital Technologies

Calling all aspiring digital creators! This advanced course takes your digital skills to the next level. You'll delve into the world of databases, app development, and design, preparing you to build sophisticated digital solutions.

What You'll Master:

• Website development
• User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX) Design:  Craft intuitive and user-friendly experiences for your website, considering both aesthetics and functionality.
• Reflective Practice:  Analyze and reflect on the app development process through an end-of-course exam. You'll critically evaluate your design decisions, user experience, and potential areas for improvement.

Why Choose This Course?

• Build a Portfolio Project: Showcase your app development skills with a final project, impressing universities and potential employers.
• Develop Critical Thinking: Learn to analyze your work and user feedback, fostering an iterative design process.
• Prepare for University: Equip yourself with the knowledge and skills required for advanced computer science or design programs.
• Become a Future-Ready Tech Expert:  Master in-demand skills that are crucial in today's technology-driven world.

Year 12 Digital Technologies is ideal for students who are passionate about creating impactful applications and shaping the future of technology. Are you ready to embark on your journey as a digital innovator?

This course is also part of the Pathways in Technology programme, which gives you the opportunity to gain extra learning from tertiary lecturers at MIT. Once a week, you will be attending lectures at MIT in Tech Park and complete Level 4 papers on programming, database and web development. Transport will be provided and PTech will cover the fees for your course at MIT.

This course is comprised of internal achievement standards plus external standards.  This is a full year course.  This course is designed to enable students to attain Level 2 Literacy (5 reading and 5 writing credits) and will contribute to NCEA Level 2 Qualification.  Students will be assessed on their ability to understand meaning in written and visual/oral texts as well as their ability to create their own meaning.  Students will also seek feedback to make changes to their own writing to make improve clarity, meaning and effect.  Literacy in English gives students access to the understanding, knowledge and skills they need to participate fully in the social, cultural, political, and economic life of New Zealand and the wider world.

This course is comprised of internal achievement standards plus the opportunity to sit one external standard.  This is a full year course.  This course is designed to enable students to attain Level 2 Literacy (5 reading and 5 writing credits) and will contribute to NCEA Level 2 Qualification.  Students will be assessed on their ability to understand meaning in written and visual/oral texts as well as their ability to create their own meaning.  Students will also seek feedback to make changes to their own writing to make improve clarity, meaning and effect.  Literacy in English gives students access to the understanding, knowledge and skills they need to participate fully in the social, cultural, political, and economic life of New Zealand and the wider world.

This will develop your English reading, writing and speaking skills. You can earn EL (English Language) credits at NCEA Level 2, and some students may do assessments at Level 1 or 3.

This course is a leading way for those wanting to go on to future tertiary education. We will give you the foundation to build critical thinking about our language and culture and also in your everyday lives and protocols of our language and culture.  This course will involve learning how to form formal sentences and structures. Students will gain knowledge of Samoan by developing skills in listening, spoken presentation, reading and writing.  Of the five Standards offered to students, 3 will be assessed internally and 2 will be externally assessed.

Geography is an excellent subject for students looking for variety in their study. Students studying Geography strengthen their abilities to research, communicate in writing, use spatial reasoning skills and inter-personal skills. Year 12 Geography examines people, the natural environment, and interacts between the two. 

Year 12 Geography examines further examples of people interacting within their environment:

• The ‘Natural Landscape’ topic looks at significant landscapes, how they have evolved and the impact of people on these environments. Our case study is Tongariro National Park.
• ‘Disparities of Development’ explores the reasons for inequalities throughout the world and the attempts to counteract poverty. Our case studies include the USA and Afghanistan.
• The ‘Global Pattern’ study will focus on a health geographies topic. Students will study the spatial distribution of malaria, the causes of this, and significance to different group of people.
•  A contemporary geographic issue will also be studied. The nature of the overfishing will be investigated as well as the perspectives of different stakeholders of the fishing industry and course of action to reduce overfishing.

Field trips are an important part of the Geography curriculum. There will be one overnight field trip to Tongariro National Park in term 1 to support learning for one external and one internal assessment. 

Welcome to Global Studies, an engaging course that integrates Social Studies and Media Studies. This course is designed to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of New Zealand’s culture and society through reflective social inquiry and media representation.

In Level 2 Social Studies, you will conduct a reflective social inquiry, exploring a topic that highlights the media’s portrayal of an aspect of New Zealand culture or society. You will also engage in a social action project, focusing on rights and responsibilities, and document your personal involvement.

In Media Studies, you will develop your production skills by creating a documentary. This hands-on experience will involve writing, planning, designing, and producing your film. You will learn to collaborate effectively with your peers, taking on significant roles within your production team. Practical skills such as filming, editing, and managing resources and time will be emphasized.

Throughout the course, you will produce high-quality media products that can be showcased in an online portfolio, aiding your transition to tertiary education or industry opportunities. Additionally, you will analyze the impact of media on New Zealand identities, enhancing your understanding of media representation.

Join us in Global Studies to develop your research, inquiry, and media production skills, preparing you for future academic and professional success.

Level 2 Health is designed to help students deepen their understanding of well-being by exploring personal, social, and community health issues. The course encourages students to think critically about the world around them and develop the knowledge and skills needed to make positive decisions that support their own health and the well-being of others.

Throughout the year, students will:

• Explore how well-being is influenced by personal choices, relationships, and societal factors
• Examine how people adapt and show resilience in the face of change or challenges
• Investigate a significant health issue affecting adolescents in New Zealand (e.g. mental health, vaping, or body image)
• Evaluate strategies that promote well-being at individual, interpersonal, and societal levels
• Learn how to take health-enhancing action within their school or wider community

This subject supports literacy, critical thinking, and personal growth, while building empathy and awareness of real-life health issues. It is suitable for students who enjoy discussions, working with real-world scenarios, and making a difference in their communities.

Assessments are a mix of internal and external standards and align with the New Zealand Curriculum and NCEA Level 2 Achievement Standards.

This course focuses on continuity and change. We explore several key turning points in the twentieth century, both international and local. By analysing these events, we are better able to make sense of the world, both in the past and present and see the links between them.  We further develop critical thinking, research skills, and the ability to create a convincing argument through independent inquiry and examining different perspectives. Extending oral and written communication skills are a key focus of the teaching of History at Southern Cross Campus. History is an approved subject for University. 

History at Level 2 studies two topics across modern world history. The topics studied could include (but not limited to)

• No Shots Fired! – Communism, Capitalism & MAD Cold War Tensions 
• Crimes Against Humanity – Nazi Germany & the Holocaust
• Protest in the 20th Century
• Bastion Point and  Maori land issues, 
• the Maori Land March,
• Racism and Apartheid South Africa
• Sports and Politics - the 1981 Springbok Tour
• Power: nuclear testing in the Pacific.
• The Cuban Missile Crisis

In Level 2 Hospitality you will further develop the skills and knowledge gained in the previous year, however new students are also welcome- just bring with you a genuine interest in food, and a desire to pursue a career in the hospitality industry! The comprises both cookery standards (preparing a variety of hot and cold dishes) and hospitality standards (table-service and espresso coffee-making). You will practise a range of cooking methods including grilling, frying, roasting and baking. The course is mostly practical, with a small written component only. You will also be expected to help cater for school functions and to practise your skills in the school café, giving you the opportunity to prepare food for, and serve to, real customers!

In this course, students are expected to develop an understanding of and be able to produce more complex and formal Tongan language.  Students can communicate information, ideas and opinions through different text types. They should be able to express and respond to personal ideas and opinions, as well as understanding the ways in which Tongan language is organised for different purposes.  The skills of reading, speaking, listening, writing, and conversing, in Tongan will all be emphasized.  There is a total of 5 standards offered, 3 as Internally assessed standards and 2 as externally assessed Standards.

NCEA Level 2 Mathematics and Statistics builds on foundational skills to develop critical thinking, logical reasoning, and problem-solving abilities. Students will deepen their understanding of mathematical concepts, with a curriculum covering key topics in algebra, geometry, calculus, trigonometry, statistics, and probability. The course integrates both theoretical and applied mathematical approaches and emphasizes real-world applications relevant to life in Aotearoa New Zealand and beyond. Assessment methods include a mix of internally and externally assessed NCEA Achievement Standards. Students should have achieved at least 14 credits in NCEA Level 1 Mathematics, including core numeracy standards, to enrol in this course. The specific topics and standards may vary according to each class program.

Welcome to Music at Level Two of the National Qualifications Framework. This is an opportunity for students to extend their musical knowledge from Level One.

Specific skills learned  

PERFORMANCE: This involves performing in front of an audience as a soloist and as a member of a group.

INSTRUMENTATION & COMPOSITION: These standards involve writing existing music for instruments and composing 2 original pieces (optional). You will develop skills on Sibelius and other music software to score your work.

AURAL PERCEPTION: This standard involves demonstrating aural understanding through written representation. This part of the course is assessed externally at the end of year exam.

RESEARCH: You will demonstrate knowledge of the NZ Music Industry.

The aim of this course is for students to develop knowledge and understanding of the methods and ideas which underpin photography practice.  The course seeks to encourage investigation into established art practice and the exploration of practical ideas through a series of internally assessed assignments.  Skills using Adobe Creative Suite programs such as Photoshop, InDesign, Lightroom and Premiere Pro will be developed.   Students will have the opportunity to specialise and immerse themselves in independent practice in a selected study area where digital technology may be incorporated to extend their ideas. Work will be presented on a two-panel folio board or as a moving image submission for external assessment.

This course is for learners with an interest in photography, design, animation, marketing, advertising, gaming, fashion design, architecture, illustration, branding, interior design, visual communications, and other creative careers.
Some of the types of things that learners have created during this course are logo designs, comic books, magazine layouts, posters, t-shirt designs, billboards, photo exhibitions.....

This course is NCEA Achievement Standards and learners are able to get course endorsements.

Learners will complete their 2.2, 2.3, 2.4 assessments in Photography
The 2.4 External assessments are folio boards and are worth 12 credits.
The 2.1 Achievement standards are worked on throughout the year and students have the opportunity to gain 8 literacy credits for these assessments.

Learners have the opportunity to gain 32 NCEA Level 2 credits in this course.

The level 2 Physics program aims to understand nature at its most fundamental levels. Physicists and students will attempt to apply the general laws governing force and motion, matter and energy, and space and time. Learning Physics can help explain the science that underlies the behavior of everyday things such as cars and bridges as well as abstract things such as the curvature of space-time near a black hole. 

This course offers 19 credits from two internal assessments and two external achievement standards. The Internal achievement standards consist of a test and a practical assessment. The students are expected to use the skills learned to plan and carry out practical work, and show safe practice for all experimental work. Students are expected to take responsibility for their learning, by reading relevant chapters in the textbook and completing all class work and homework.

In senior social studies, students extend their understanding of how societies function and how people participate in them. Level 2 Social Studies looks at modern-day social justice and human rights issues such as voting rights, poverty and discrimination. We explore a wide range of issues from a local and global perspective. Students will be required to develop research and inquiry skills to examine a local issue of their choosing. Students will then participate in direct social action(s)** in support of an organisation that addresses a local issue and evaluate their contribution. Students will also examine why conflict arises from differing cultural beliefs, and how these cultural conflicts can be addressed. Students will be expected to use the library, the internet, interview and survey members of their community to gather information for a range of assessments

This course follows the NCEA level 2 guidelines and is a link between the learning in Level 1 and future learning in Level 3. This course is for students who enjoy leading, coaching or managing sport, aiming to see improvements in others. The course is also good for students who are interested in personal training and out door education. 

Specific skills learned  

How to assess own performance against national standards in a range of physical activities

Take action to predict, prevent and manage risks in an outdoor challenging activity

Why is sport important? Why do different cultures like some sports more than others?

Develop leadership skills to lead and assist others. 

This course follows the NCEA Level 2 guidelines and is a mixture of theory and practical work. The course has a strong academic focus and will suit students who like to learn about physical education rather than just play sport. Sport Science will prepare students for university study.

Specific skills learned  

How to effectively use your body to execute volleyball skill successfully?

Comparing own performance in movement to national standards

How do you write a training program? What principles do you have to follow for success?

Examine a National Sporting Competition and it's effect on self, others and society - sociological factors 

How to identify and manage risk in outdoor activity

How to effectively use your body to execute a technical skill successfully?

This is a two year course taken at Years 12 and Year 13. 

Tourism is one of the New Zealand’s largest and fastest growing industries. A qualification in the travel arena offers a wide range of career opportunities. As technology and tourism evolve new types of jobs are being introduced all the time. In Travel and Tourism you will explore the different work roles within each sector of the industry and the skills and knowledge needed for these. You will develop your knowledge of Tourism Destinations and look at the social and cultural impacts of Tourism.

Studying Travel and Tourism could provide you with the foundation skills to kick start your new career.

This is NOT a UE Approved Subject Travel and Tourism is NOT an approved UE course of study but is highly recommended to those who wish to further support their other UE subjects with practical skills and experience.

Pathways to Success - Employability, Financial Literacy and Life Skills

This course empowers students to gain practical life skills that will prepare them for employment . further education and independent living. It focuses on developing self management, financial awareness , team work and personal well being. Through real world tasks such as budgeting , CV writing, problems and planning personal goals students will build confidence and capability to transfer from school into the adult world and the workforce.

In level 3 Practical Art we will explore images relating to our own interests and culture and also gain an understanding of practicing artists. We will explore techniques such as drawing, painting, carving and etching. This is a practical class and you will be working a lot with your hands. You continue to build your skills and confidence with the support of your teacher and peers and you will be creating your own original art works.  You will also be learning to think like an artist, developing your own ideas to create art works that reflect your interests identity. 

To enroll in level 3 Art Practical, students must have taken Art Practical or Art Design/Photography at level 1 or 2. 

This course provides alternative pathway opportunities and guidance for students to discover and achieve their aspirations in the field of automotive engineering. The course will consist of theory and practical based learning within the Trades Academy, students will also attend year long course at UNITEC (1 x day per week, 30 weeks – 21 credits) as well as a work placement in the automotive industry (1 x day per week). Students will work towards achieving a National Certificate in automotive Engineering Level 4 qualification through practical and theory courses, site visits and generic employment skills.

The Level 3 Biology program aims to build your knowledge on the nature of living things and to understand the connection of evolution to life processes and ecology, and the impact that humans have on all forms of life. You will learn to explore the interconnectedness of all living things and the environment, make more informed decision about significant biological issues, and be made aware of ecological issues that are of significance to New Zealand. 

You will develop your ability to analyze information, problem-solve, and apply knowledge to new situations and you will improve your intellectual, creative, and critical thinking. Experimental work and field trips will be infiltrated throughout the course to support understanding of scientific ideas as well as further develop practical skills.

This course offers five  Achievement Standards worth a maximum total of 17 credits. There are three internal standards and two external standards. Students will explore these Achievement Standards and learn the aspects of the following:

• Practical investigation in a Biological context.
• How an animal maintains a stable internal environment.
• Responses of Plants and Animals to their extend environment.
• Develop an informed response to a socio-scientific issue.
• Trends in Human Evolution.

The course includes the following concepts: Equations; real, rational and complex numbers; graphs and trigonometry; calculus including the solution of differential equations. The course extends and develops the calculus work begun in Year 12. The formulation of problems in mathematical terms, use of mathematical reasoning, precision in the use of symbols and the ability to construct and set out methodically a mathematical argument are increasingly important.

This can enable study of mathematics beyond secondary level. Calculus has many applications and is a requirement for many tertiary courses such as Higher Mathematics, Physical Sciences, Engineering, Economics, and Surveying. This course comprises of both Internal and External standards that contribute to the total credits; is a University recognized subject; currently contributes to Numeracy and is eligible for Course endorsement.  

So students should be comfortable under high stakes examination conditions.

The Year 13 Chemistry course aims to develop your knowledge and understanding of chemistry and its relevance to society, through both theory and practical work and to prepare you for success in NCEA Level 3 Chemistry assessments. You will develop your ability to analyze information, problem-solve, and apply knowledge to new situations and you will improve your intellectual, creative, and critical thinking. Experimental work will be infiltrated throughout the course to support understanding of scientific ideas as well as further develop practical skills.

This course offers three internal standards and two external standards worth a total of 19 credits. Students will be able to explore these Achievement Standards and learn the aspects of the following :

• Using information from their research and practical investigations to write a report on similarities and differences of the two Redox processes.
• Using information from spectroscopic data to fully discuss and identify the identity of an organic compound. (they are required to fully discuss information from IR spectroscopy, 13C NMR Spectra and Mass Spectrometry)
• Reporting on research based on a chemical process in the world around us. In particular, discussing the advantages/disadvantages and its effects on the environment.

Learning will be based on research, planning and actually carrying out a business operation operation from conceptualisation to final selling of finished products. It will involve both within-school and outside school operations.

This course is designed for students intending to pursue a career in the construction industry at the end of the year. Students complete a range of practical and theory activities which will prepare them for an apprenticeship, or further training or work. 

Style of learning – the course is taught through practical and learning is reinforced with booklets.

Students must be prepared to do one day work experience each week. This is organised by the school.

A creative and physical outlet for students to express themselves through Dance. Students will describe, analyse and extend their understanding of dance in the many different forms it holds. Students will learn to create dance by a means of intention, purpose, inspiration and imagination. The career pathway for students is to continue into tertiary education with options of scholarship opportunities for the gifted who seek dance at a professional level. This subject is UE approved and offers literacy credits in the external exam.  

Specific skills learned  

Choreographic Intention – Meaning of dance

Choreographic Devices – How to create a dance

Genres or forms of Dance – Styles of dance such as Hip Hop or Contemporary Dance

Group work – Creating choreography in a group 

Duets – Working with a partner

Dance Elements – Time, Space, Energy, Relationships (Components that make a dance)

This course develops skills and understanding based in contemporary design practice. The concepts explored provide a valuable basis for further study in Art and Design in related fields at tertiary level. Ongoing portfolio work will enable students to extend their understanding and skills in the use of industry standard digital design tools such as Adobe Indesign, Photoshop and Illustrator. Students will develop their own design practice through exploration and engagement in a sustained body of work based on an individual and self-driven proposal. Students have the opportunity to submit for Visual Arts Scholarship.

This course is for learners with an interest in photography, design, animation, marketing, advertising, gaming, fashion design, architecture, illustration, branding, interior design, visual communications, and other creative careers.
Some of the types of things that learners have created during this course are logo designs, comic books, magazine layouts, posters, t-shirt designs, billboards, photo exhibitions.....

This course is NCEA Achievement Standards and learners are able to get course endorsements.
This course is University Approved.

Learners will complete their 3.2, 3.3, 3.4 assessments in Design
The 3.4 External assessments are folio boards and are worth 14 credits.
The 3.1 Achievement standards are worked on throughout the year and students have the opportunity to gain between 8 literacy credits for these assessments.

Learners have the opportunity to gain 34 NCEA Level 3 credits in this course.

This programme offers you an opportunity to create inspiring environmental friendly projects that are practical and hands-on. It will help you construct and design buildings/homes using 3D visual drawings both traditional and digital. This course is for you if you have the following passions: being a critical thinker, a solver, a planner, a global learner, and a person who would one day think of becoming an entrepreneur. 

This programme will include the following topics:

Develop personal perspective

Public design/Community

Design a portfolio: Architectural design/interior design/landscape design

Exhibition

In this programme, student's identities cultures, languages, and talents are recognised and affirmed.

Get ready to push the boundaries of technology in Year 13 Digital Technologies! This advanced course delves deeper into the ever-evolving digital world, equipping you with the skills and knowledge to make a real impact.

What You'll Explore:

• Cutting-Edge Technologies: Dive into emerging trends like Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and the Internet of Things.
• Advanced Coding: Master sophisticated coding techniques to build complex applications and websites.
• Data Analysis and Visualization:  Learn to interpret and present data in a clear and compelling way.
• Real-World Projects:  Tackle challenging projects that allow you to apply your learnings and solve real-world problems.

Why Choose This Course?

• Stand Out from the Crowd:  Develop in-demand skills for further education and competitive university programs.
• Prepare for the Future:  Gain a solid foundation for careers in the ever-growing digital landscape.
• Become an Innovator:  Learn to think critically and creatively to design and develop innovative digital solutions.
• Sharpen Your Skills:  Build on your existing digital knowledge and refine your problem-solving and analytical abilities.

Year 13 Digital Technologies is for students who are passionate about technology and want to take their skills to the next level. Are you ready to become a digital leader?

Students who take this course, and have been in the Pathways to Technology (PTech) programme since Year 11 will also be continuing with attending MIT once a week. 

  Students will work towards preparation for the NCEA Level 3 and Tertiary Study. . . Where possible we will be doing units of work which integrates 2 or more  standards. You will learn skills in creating, interpreting, speaking, reading, designing stage, sets. Organizing productions and various performance skills. Technology units available for sound, lightning, costuming and props. Preparing students for the pathway in Creative industries.

Students will upgrade their application of acting skills through developing their improvisation, physical interpretation and ability to follow scripted and directorial instructions. Students will learn discipline and control over use of drama techniques (voice, body, movement and space) as well as develop their drama literacy.

This course is comprised of internal and external achievement standards.  It is a full year course.  Students will develop reading and writing skills that will develop the capacity to critically analyse a range of text(s).  This course sets students up for further education because it thoroughly covers the written and visual/oral strands of English.  This course will allow students to gain the 14 credits they require for University Entrance.  Literacy in English gives students access to the understanding, knowledge, and skills they need to participate fully in the social, cultural, political, and economic life of New Zealand and the wider world.

This course is comprised of internal credits.  It is a full year course.  Students will develop reading and writing skills that will develop the capacity to critically analyse a range of text(s).  This course sets students up for further education because it thoroughly covers the written and visual/oral strands of English.  This course will allow students to gain the 14 credits they require for University Entrance.  Literacy in English gives students access to the understanding, knowledge, and skills they need to participate fully in the social, cultural, political, and economic life of New Zealand and the wider world.

This will develop your English reading, writing and speaking skills. You can earn EL (English Language) credits at NCEA Level 3, and some students may do assessments at Level 1 or 2.

In this course students are expected to use Samoan language to express and justify their own ideas and opinions and to support and challenge those of others. They are able to use and identify language and cultural forms that guide interpretation and enable them to respond critically to texts. A total of 5 standards will be offered, of which 3 will be assessed internally and 2 will be assessed externally.  This course will lead to Tertiary Levels.

Geography provides a valuable introduction to a wide range of geographic topics on both local and global scales. Geography gives students a multidisciplinary or holistic view of the world, combining knowledge, skills and understandings of the physical and social sciences. It fosters a curiosity about place and space and provokes questions about natural and cultural environments and their interconnectedness. 

The Level 3 Geography course involves the detailed study of topics which could include but not limited to: 

• The cultural process of Tourism development - Focus on Tourism Development in Rotorua (Fieldtrip). This will be a combined standard with the Research standard.
• A study of global patterns such as diamonds, piracy, or mass tourism. plastic pollution. mass poverty 
• Geographic issues – their problems and solutions/ Human Trafficking/ Coral reefs/climate refugees
• Conducting geographic fieldwork (linked bullet point 1)
• Geographic mapping and skills

 Additional Course Costs & Special Requirements Field trips are part of the Geography course. There are additional costs associated with these.

Welcome to Global Studies, a dynamic course designed to immerse you in the disciplines of Social Studies and Media Studies. This course offers a unique opportunity to explore contemporary social justice and human rights issues, with a focus on influencing policy changes, such as bills going through parliament.

In Level 3 Social Studies, you will develop research and inquiry skills to examine a New Zealand social issue of your choice. You’ll delve into the intricacies of social justice, aiming to make a tangible impact on policy.

In Media Studies, you’ll channel your creativity into producing a media product. You’ll learn essential production skills, including writing, planning, designing, and producing a short film. This hands-on experience will teach you to collaborate effectively and take on significant roles within a production team, honing practical skills such as filming, editing, and resource and time management.

Throughout the year, you’ll create high-quality essays and films, suitable for inclusion in an online portfolio. This portfolio will be a valuable asset for tertiary education or industry opportunities. Additionally, you’ll analyze the impact of media on Pasifika and New Zealand identities through representation assessments.

Join us in Global Studies to develop a comprehensive understanding of social issues and media production, preparing you for future academic and professional endeavors.

Level 3 Health Studies

This course focuses on causes and effects, continuity and change, interpretations and historiography by examining pivotal historical events of the past. Topics investigated may include (but may be subjected to change):

• An Inquiry into a student selected topic (in consultation with the Teacher in Charge)
• The nuclear bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki that resulted in the end of the Second World War 
• Civil Rights Movement in the USA during the 1950s and 60s. 
• The Implications of Dawns
• The Suffrage Movement
• New Zealand wars (Waikato and Taranaki Wars)

Students will further develop their analytical and essay-writing skills through a range of assessment methods. Extending oral and written communication skills are a key focus of the teaching of History at Southern Cross Campus. This course provides students with a sound basis for further education as well as an enormous variety of careers. History is highly recommended for Law, Journalism and Politics. History is also recommended as the Humanities option for students wishing to pursue a career in medicine.

The standards and topics offered in this course may be altered at the discretion of the Head of Department.

This course is especially designed to prepare you for a career in the hospitality industry. You will add to your knowledge and skills gained in Hospitality in the Level 2 course, and learn advanced food safety, nutrition and barista skills, as well prepare and present a variety of dishes including pasta and complex sandwiches. Assessments are both practical and written. As with the Level 1 and 2 courses, you will continue to gain experience working with real customers, through preparing food for school functions and for the school café. Students must also be prepared to do a day of work experince each week. This is organised by the school.

In this course students are expected to use Tongan language to express and justify their own ideas and opinions and to support and challenge those of others. They are able to use and identify language and cultural forms that guide interpretation and enable them to respond critically to texts. The skills of reading, speaking, writing, and listening to extended texts will also be taught and encouraged. A total of 5 standards will be offered, of which 3 will be assessed internally and 2 will be assessed externally.  This course will lead to Tertiary Levels or the world of work.

This course will enable study of Mathematics beyond secondary level. This course comprises of both Internal and External standards that contribute to the total credits. Students may sit for at-least one external at the end of the  year which is optional depending on the pathway. This course is a University recognized subject, contributes to Numeracy  and is eligible for Course endorsement.  

This course is designed for students that are not certain about their career pathway yet, but still wish to pursue Mathematics. It covers a variety of topics, not specializing in Calculus or Statistics. 

Welcome to Music at Level 3 of the National Qualifications Framework. This is an opportunity for students to extend their musical knowledge from Level 2.

Specific skills learned  

PERFORMANCE: This involves performing in front of an audience as a soloist and as a member of a group.

RESEARCH: This standard involves researching a musical topic.

AURAL PERCEPTION: This involves integrating aural skills into written representation.

This course develops skills and understanding based in contemporary photography practice. The concepts explored provide a valuable basis for further study in Art and Design in related fields at tertiary level. Ongoing portfolio work will enable students to extend their understanding and skills in the use of industry standard digital photography tools such as Adobe Indesign, Photoshop, Light Room, Premier Pro and Illustrator. Students will develop their own photographic practice through exploration and engagement in a sustained body of work based on an individual and self-driven proposal. Students have the opportunity to submit for Visual Arts Scholarship.

This course is for learners with an interest in photography, design, animation, marketing, advertising, gaming, fashion design, architecture, illustration, branding, interior design, visual communications, and other creative careers.
Some of the types of things that learners have created during this course are logo designs, comic books, magazine layouts, posters, t-shirt designs, billboards, photo exhibitions.....

This course is NCEA Achievement Standards and learners are able to get course endorsements.
This course is University Approved.

Learners will complete their 3.2, 3.3, 3.4 assessments in Photography
The 3.4 External assessments are folio boards and are worth 14 credits.
The 3.1 Achievement standards are worked on throughout the year and students have the opportunity to gain between 4-16 literacy credits for these assessments.

Learners have the opportunity to gain 34 NCEA Level 3 credits in this course.

Almost any scientific problem can be approached using the ideas and methods of physics. The Level 3 Physics program aims to help you understand why things in the natural world happen the way they do. It enables you to explain, for example, how buildings move in an earthquake, why a car takes as long as it does to come to a stop when the brakes are applied, why the sky is blue and grass green, and why the supports of a bridge have to be of certain dimensions. You can use your understanding to predict how an object will behave under particular conditions, improve the functioning of everyday objects, and envisage new developments.

This course offers two internal standards and two external standards worth a total of 19 credits. 

Level 3 Social Studies looks at contemporary social justice and human rights issues and aims to examine and influence policy change, such as a Bill going through parliament. Students will be required to develop research and inquiry skills to examine a New Zealand social issue of their choosing.

Students will then participate in direct social action(s) in support of a chosen social issue and evaluate their contribution. They will also examine how ideological responses can impact on an issue such as the response to topics such as (but is not limited to):

• West Papua Conflict 
• Covid-19
• the war in the Ukraine. 
• Policy change: Dawn Raid - Apology

Student will be expected to use the library, the internet, interview and survey members of their community to gather information for a range of assessments 

This course follows the NCEA Level 3 guidelines. This course follows on from the learning in Levels 1 and 2. This is not a university-approved subject. This course will prepare students to take further study at MIT, UNITEC, AUT or NZIS, in the fields of Personal Trainer, Coaching, Leadership programs, Events Manager, Sports Coordinator, PE teacher, Outdoor Instructor, Physiotherapist, Strength & Conditioning Coach, Chiropractor, Occupational Therapist. Careers in the services would also be helped by taking this course.

Specific skills learned 

Goal setting, effective communication, leadership growth, interpersonal skills, analysing data, problem solving, Managing self & others, critical reflection.  

How to successfully plan, implement & evaluate a coaching session for beginners, what does a plan need to have.

Get feedback on your performance as a coach from your peers, what do you do well, what do you need to improve?

Compare your performance to  national standards in a variety of sports. 

Learn how to assess, give treatment, and manage sport injuries in a range of sporting injuries. 

Select appropriate weight training exercises to improve muscle groups. Demonstrate the correct technique when doing these exercises and explore a range of stretch techniques to improve movement. 

This course follows the NCEA Level 3 guidelines and uses the knowledge gained in Levels 1 and 2. It is a university approved course. It is a highly academic course and would suit students who like to learn about physical education rather than just play sport.

Specific skills learned  

Examine an event, trend or issue and it's impact on NZ society. 

How to compare performance against national standards in a range of physical activities.

Analyse using biomechanics to improve a skill. 

Analyse saftey issues in OED

Evaluate Physical activity for life-long well-being.

Tourism is one of the New Zealand’s largest and fastest growing industries. A qualification in the travel arena offers a wide range of career opportunities.  NCEA Level 3 Travel and Tourism is assessed using unit standards. It uses solely internal assessments (26 credits). This course focuses on teaching students the destination knowledge and tourism industry skills required to work in Travel and Tourism. Industry materials, training booklets and assessments from the International Travel College are used to administer the course. Students will have the opportunity to attend off-site courses and listen to guest speakers from the tourism industry and tourism training institutions, as part of this course. The course leads on to acceptance into selected Tertiary Tourism Industry Training courses.

Studying Travel and Tourism could provide you with the foundation skills to kick start your new career.

This is NOT a UE Approved Subject Travel and Tourism is NOT an approved UE course of study but is highly recommended to those who wish to further support their other UE subjects with practical skills and experience.