Sancta Maria College

Recommended study for: Year 10  

DVC Graphics (two terms) (9DVC) 

Technology can be described as intervention by design. It has an impact on us all whether you are academic or practical. It is a useful subject if you choose to take a trade apprenticeship, choose a career in a technology- related industry, or even if you choose a university career path. 

Year 9 technology will provide students with practical and creative experiences, gaining skills while completing a range of activities and learning experiences. 

All Technology courses include: 

- Technological practice  - The stages that must be followed to solve a problem or issue that leads to a solution that is successful and fit for purpose. 

- Technological knowledge - Developing and learning new knowledge skills through research, problem-solving and critical reflection. 

- Nature of Technology - Investigating how technology fits into our community, society and the world around us 

Recommended study for: Year 10  

Students will continue to develop their understanding of Computational Thinking and Designing and Developing Digital Outcomes. 

Designing and Developing Digital Outcomes: They will use Photoshop to produce a visual Mihimihi and develop websites using HTML5 and CSS3. 

Computational Thinking: They will learn programming fundamentals and algorithms by develop their coding skills using Scratch and Python. 

Computer Science: They will learn about Binary and Data Representation. 

Recommended study for: Year 10  

Drama has the capacity to move and challenge values, cultures and identities. Through participation in drama, students develop their capacities of expression and imagination and learn to focus on and use their senses. The process of making and presenting drama gives students opportunities to develop their self-confidence and skills in interpreting, researching, negotiating, problem solving and decision making 

This course includes: 

- Improvisation/Theatre sports – You will learn a series of theatre sports games designed to help you think quickly, initiate and advance ideas, accept other peoples’ ideas and learn basic performance skills. 

- Role-play and character development – Through a series of exercises and activities you will learn to create and portray a range of convincing characters and sustain a role throughout a performance.

- Drama techniques workshop (use of voice, body, movement and space) - In this workshop you will learn how the effective use of drama techniques help to show meaning in a performance. You will learn how to speak clearly and to project your voice on stage. 

- Performance Poetry – You will show the use of drama techniques in a performance of a given poem. 

- Perform an acting role – You will research a character in a given script, and will develop the characteristics that allow the audience to see the character and not you – use drama techniques to shape your character. 

- Drama journal work – You will complete a written journal on all the units covered in this course. 

Recommended study for: Year 10 English 

The Year 9 English programme covers a range of studies - plot, character, setting and style from a variety of literature and film studies, language, reading, oral and visual skills. Year 9 students experience a variety of project-based learning programmes from documentary making, to engaging writing projects that will challenge students of all levels and abilities. This course is designed to prepare students for Year 10 English. 

This class caters to students who are from a second language English background and have been identified as needing support in learning academic English. It is vital for identified students as it gives them a strong foundation for success, not only in NCEA English, but in all NCEA subjects. It is compulsory for identified candidates. 

Recommended study for: Year 10  

Foods (two terms) Technology (9FTM) 

Technology can be described as intervention by design. It has an impact on us all whether you are academic or practical. It is a useful subject if you choose to take a trade apprenticeship, choose a career in a technology- related industry, or even if you choose a university career path. 

Year 9 technology will provide students with practical and creative experiences, gaining skills while completing a range of activities and learning experiences. 

All Technology courses include: 

Technological practice - The stages that must be followed to solve a problem or issue that leads to a solution that is successful and fit for purpose. 

Technological knowledge - Developing and learning new knowledge skills through research, problem-solving and critical reflection. 

Nature of Technology - Investigating how technology fits into our community, society and the world around us 

Recommended study for: Year 10  

In Year 9 Health, students will be covering a range of topics which will enhance their understanding of how their Hauora can be impacted, and learn to make positive health enhancing decisions. The main topics include: Alcohol, Coping with Change, Loss and Grief, along with making Healthy Lifestyle changes. Within these topics, students will gain an understanding on how to make health enhancing decisions that can impact themselves, others and wider NZ society.     

In Year 9 PE, will move through a range of practical activities, which encourage co-operation and inclusion, but also allows for personal growth. These activities include cooperative sport through a Sports Education Model, Fitness which includes learning about the components of fitness, Anatomy of the human body along with Biomechanics which will include Projectile Motion, Force Summation and Balance, along with a performance improvement programme in Badminton.

Recommended study for: Year 10  

Follow on from their Year 8 Course, Year 9 students will be involved in a comprehensive Introductory Course in Japanese. Students will learn how to express themselves in Japanese in everyday situations, such as introducing oneself and others, talking about family, pets and friends, discussing one’s favourite hobbies, food or social events using social media platforms and digital tools in collaborative learning contexts. Students will also learn more about Japan, its people, culture, and customs through literature, media, information technology and people interaction. Students will have the opportunity to host visiting Japanese student groups during the year to put into practice their Japanese language skills. Students will be able to apply to go on Sancta Maria College Japan Cultural trip in their senior year of studies. 

Language Support

Recommended study for: Students who are identified as needing a literacy boost to prepare them for the CAA Reading and Writing assessments, usually completed in Year 10. 

Literacy Acceleration (9LIT) 

This class caters to students who lack confidence and/or skill in reading comprehension and writing, especially students who have literacy delays due to dyslexia / dyspraxia etc. Teachers will identify candidates for this English class, and placement will be by invitation. It is run during an option line and occurs as well as mainstream English. Use of Assistive Technology to support literacy will be integrated into learning tasks. Elements of structured literacy approaches will also be used. This class is vital, and as such, compulsory for identified students. It will give them a strong foundation for success, not only in NCEA English, but in all subjects as NCEA is very literacy rich. 

Recommended study for: Year 10 Mathematics & Statistics 

Year 9 students will study a generic course that gives them an understanding of concepts that are the basis for studying Mathematics through to Year 13. The course aims to give students the numeracy skills and conceptual knowledge required to use Mathematics in everyday situations. Key strands covered are Number, Algebra and Graphs, Measurement, Geometry, Statistics and Probability. 

Recommended study for: Year 10 Music  

Year 9 music students will develop the following music skills which leads to Year 10 music: 

- Performance skills where students either perform as a soloist or in a group ensemble (by singing, playing keyboards, ukulele, drums, guitars, etc.) 

- Composition skills by creating digital music with music software programs. 

- Theory/ Listening skills by learning how to read music (or to continue to develop their individual theory skills)   

- Music History Research skills by learning about how to analyse different styles of music including NZ music by referring to the elements of music. 

All students studying music are encouraged to learn an instrument or sing through either the itinerant scheme or with private lessons.  

In 2025 the instruments offered through the Itinerant Music Scheme are: 

Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass, Bass Guitar, Trumpet, Trombone, Clarinet, Flute & Saxophone, Guitar and Drum Kit. There are limited spaces. 

Students who study music and have itinerant music lessons are also expected to be involved in a co-curricular music group, such as the Choir, Orchestra, Concert Band, Big Band, Stage Band or Symphonic chamber strings.  

Music students are also encouraged to become involved in musical competitions, such as the Chamber Music NZ, Rock Quest, Tangata Beats, The Big Sing, the KBB Festival, Play it Strange and Stand Up Stand Out. 

Numeracy Support

Recommended study for: Year 10 Religious Education 

Religious Education is central to all that we do at Sancta Maria College. It is through Religious Education that we learn more about our faith. The basis of study this year will be from a mixture of the “Understanding Faith” and “Tō Tātou Whakapono Our Faith” programmes mandated by the New Zealand Catholic Bishops Conference. 

The theme for this year’s study is ‘Tūhono - Connected’. God’s grace connects us with God, each other and the world. The course will begin with introductory topics on the Special Character and Values of Sancta Maria College. Students will experience a variety of prayer forms over the course of the year. 

Recommended study for: Year 10 Science 

Students will learn a lot about the world around them and also learn a lot of science skills that will help in future Science studies. 

During Year 9, students will complete a range of integrated topics incorporating a several areas of science including: 

1. - The nature of science 

- The nature of matter 

- Life and the taiao 

- Life of plants and animals 

- Energy  

Recommended study for: Year 10 Junior Social Sciences 

Students in Year 9 Junior Social Sciences learn about the world around them and how they can participate as informed citizens in New Zealand society. From 2023 the new Aotearoa New Zealand histories curriculum became compulsory. Topics are drawn from the following, including rohe and local contexts: 

Whakapapa me te whanaungatangaCulture and identity  

Tino rangatiratanga me te kāwanatanga – Government and organisation 

Tūrangawaewae me te kaitiakitanga – Place and environment 

Kōwhiringa ohaoha me te whai orange – Economic activity 

Recommended study for: Year 10  

Students will build confidence in understanding and communicating using te reo Māori through familiar sentence patterns and everyday vocabulary. 

Learning will take place through engaging contexts such as Whanaungatanga (relationships) - building on from their Year 8 ‘Ko Wai Au?’ (Who am I?) unit of work; Te Huarere (the weather), Matariki, Hauora (health and wellbeing), Te Wiki o te Reo Māori and Te Kīngitanga. 

Alongside learning the language, students will explore tikanga Māori and deepen their understanding of te reo Māori revitalisation within Aotearoa and their role in supporting te reo Māori to flourish. 

Recommended study for: Year 10  

Hard Materials (two terms) Technology (9THM) 

Technology can be described as intervention by design. It has an impact on us all whether you are academic or practical. It is a useful subject if you choose to take a trade apprenticeship, choose a career in a technology- related industry, or even if you choose a university career path. 

Year 9 technology will provide students with practical and creative experiences, gaining skills while completing a range of activities and learning experiences. 

All Technology courses include: 

Technological practice - The stages that must be followed to solve a problem or issue that leads to a solution that is successful and fit for purpose. 

Technological knowledge - Developing and learning new knowledge skills through research, problem-solving and critical reflection. 

Nature of Technology - Investigating how technology fits into our community, society and the world around us 

Recommended study for: Year 10  

Textiles (two terms) Technology (9TSM) 

Technology can be described as intervention by design. It has an impact on us all whether you are academic or practical. It is a useful subject if you choose to take a trade apprenticeship, choose a career in a technology- related industry, or even if you choose a university career path. 

Year 9 technology will provide students with practical and creative experiences, gaining skills while completing a range of activities and learning experiences. 

All Technology courses include: 

- Technological practice  - The stages that must be followed to solve a problem or issue that leads to a solution that is successful and fit for purpose. 

-Technological knowledge - Developing and learning new knowledge skills through research, problem-solving and critical reflection. 

- Nature of Technology - Investigating how technology fits into our community, society and the world around us 

Recommended study for: Year 10  

Students will develop the following skills which leads to Year 10 Art. 

- Drawing: Using pencil to create realistic, observational drawing 

- Painting: Using painting conventions such as flat colour and blending to create a finished painting  

- Printmaking: Students will be introduced to woodcut printmaking, learning the process to create a finished print 

-  Photography: Students will have an opportunity to learn about photography conventions and complete their own set of photographs 

Students will create artwork that responds to both contemporary and traditional artists and themes. Students will work within a theme but will have choice of their own subject matter and creative outcomes which allows agency and thier own creativity to develop. 

Students will be introduced to ways of working that support learning at senior level. 

Recommended study for : Year 11 Commerce; Year 13 Economics, Accounting, and Business Studies.  

Economics 

Introductory economic concepts, resources and sustainability, demand, supply and exchange via markets 

Accounting 

Preparing financial statements e.g. transaction analysis, profit and loss and balance sheets 

Financial Literacy 

Borrowing, insurance, consumer protection laws, budgeting and the decision-making process 

Enterprise and Business 

Starting and running a business to produce a product for sale on Market Day 

Recommended study for: Year 11 Digital Technologies  

This course covers the following three topics  

10DTG_DD - Digital Design: Concepting and 3D Modelling

Bring your ideas to life through digital design. Using Adobe Photoshop, Autodesk Maya and Substance Painter create 3D models, conceptual art and learn specific techniques used in film and animation, game development and digital design. 

10DTG_GD - Game Design: Game Studies 
Step into the world of Video Game development and begin to learn the principles of Game Design. Analyse Video games, develop an understanding of Game Studies, and use learnt knowledge to create short interactive experiences.

10DTG_P - Programming : Developing in C#

Gain hands-on experience in developing your foundational programming skills in C#, using industry-standard software to create Video game prototypes and explore a variety of practical skills needed for today's tech-driven world. 

Recommended study for : Year 11, Year 12 and Year 13 Drama.  

Individual and group assessments in movement work/physical theatre, devising and script work, study of theatre forms, research, theory and public performances.

Co-operation and participation with enthusiasm is essential. 

COURSE LEADS TO:  

NCEA Level 1 Drama  

NCEA Level 2 Drama  

NCEA Level 3 Drama 

Tertiary Study Bachelor of Performing Arts National Certificate in Performing Arts  

Prerequisite for: Year 11 English  

The Year 10 course aims to prepare the students for Level 1 NCEA study in 2027. Areas of learning include oral language, reading, written and visual language. Topics studied will include creative and formal writing, short and extended texts, creation of visual text, speech/debating and the development of the English language. 

Recommended study for: Students who are identified as needing a literacy boost to prepare them for the CAA Reading and Writing assessments, usually completed in Year 10. 

Literacy Acceleration (10LIT) 

This class caters to students who lack confidence and/or skill in reading comprehension and writing, especially students who have literacy delays due to dyslexia / dyspraxia etc. Teachers will identify candidates for this English class, and placement will be by invitation. Use of Assistive Technology to support literacy will be integrated into learning tasks. Elements of structured literacy approaches will also be used. Students who are eligible for Special Assessment Conditions will be given chances to trial these prior to the CAA exams. This class is vital, and as such, compulsory for identified students. It will give them a strong foundation for success, not only in NCEA English, but in all subjects as NCEA is very literacy rich. 

Recommended study for: Year 11 Materials and Processing Technology. 

Based on the Technology curriculum, this course offers a variety of food technology projects and problem-based learning. Students will be challenged to design solutions in response to specific food needs and situations. This course will help to develop students’ knowledge and skills for NCEA. Working collaboratively is essential for the success outcomes of this course. 

COURSE LEADS TO:  

NCEA Level 1 Material and Processing Technology - Food, Textiles or materials, or Design and Visual Communication (Graphics).  

Career Pathway of Hospitality (Year 12HOS and 13HOS). 

Foundation English

Prerequisite for : Year 11 Physical Education Studies 

Students will be challenged in the areas of personal health and development, relationships, movement concepts, healthy communities and environments. The course will focus on developing personal performance in Netball, understanding how Biomechanics and Anatomy are applied in Volleyball and Basketball, fitness and socio-cultural factors which influence movement.  

Health topics that are covered over the term are in regards to positive enhancements to Mental Health and overall wellbeing, Drug Education and decision making skills along with Sexuality. The Sexuality unit is taught through the Catholic Perspective, along with having BodySafe (an outside provider) help assist in the delivery of the content.  

Recommended study for : Year 11 Japanese 

This is an introductory course in Japanese. Students will continue to develop and have practice in the four language skills (listening / reading / writing / speaking); they will explore Japanese language through everyday contexts - meeting new people, going on an outing/ shopping/ inviting friends to a party, making travel arrangements etc. Through literature, media, information technology and people interaction, students will continue to learn more about Japan, its people, culture, and customs. 

Students will have the opportunity to: 

Host visiting Japanese student groups during the year to put into practice their Japanese language skills 

Apply to go on Sancta Maria College Japan Cultural trip 

Mathematics

Prerequisite for : Any Year 11 Mathematics and Statistics Course 

Year 10 students will study a generic course that gives them an understanding of concepts that are the basis for studying Mathematics through to Year 13. The course aims to give students the numeracy skills and conceptual knowledge required to use Mathematics in everyday situations. Key strands covered are: Number, Algebra and Graphs, Trigonometry, Measurement, Statistics and Probability. 

Recommended study for: Year 11 Music (NCEA Level 1 Music)  

Year 10 music students will develop the following music skills which leads to NCEA Music. 

- Performance skills where students either perform as a soloist or in a group ensemble (by singing, playing keyboards, ukulele, drums, guitars, etc.) 

- Composition skills by creating digital music with music software programs. 

- Theory/ Listening skills by learning how to read music (or to continue to develop their individual theory skills)   

- Music History Research skills by learning about how to analyse different styles of music including NZ music by referring to the elements of music. 

All students studying music are encouraged to learn an instrument or sing through either the itinerant scheme or with private lessons.  

In 2025 the instruments offered through the Itinerant Music Scheme are: 

Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass, Bass Guitar, Trumpet, Trombone, Clarinet, Flute & Saxophone, Guitar and Drum Kit. There are limited spaces. 

Students who study music and have itinerant music lessons are also expected to be involved in a co-curricular music group, such as the Choir, Orchestra, Concert Band, Big Band, Stage Band or Symphonic chamber strings.  

Music students are also encouraged to become involved in musical competitions, such as the Chamber Music NZ, Rock Quest, Tangata Beats, The Big Sing, the KBB Festival, Play it Strange and Stand Up Stand Out. 

Prerequisite for: Year 11 Religious Education 

Religious Education at Sancta Maria College continues to bring students to Christ in the way of Mary. Guided by the principles of Tō Tātou Whakapono, deepening knowledge of faith, tradition, ritual, culture, and history.  Like Mary, who pondered God’s word deeply in her heart, students are encouraged to encounter Christ in meaningful ways, including prayer, reflection and contemplation. This course prepares students for level 1 NCEA study in 2027. 

Topics covered: 

- Journeys of Freedom 

-Gift of Vocation 

- Medieval Church 

- Images of God  

- Religious Education

Prerequisite for : Year 11 Science 

Students will continue to learn about the world around them 

This course involves the study of all the aspects of Science, Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Planet Earth and Beyond. 

Topics studied include: 

• Science Skills 
• Chemical reactions 
• Forces and motion 
• The basis of heredity 
• Electricity and Magnetism 
• Microbes 
• Earth systems 

Planning and Reporting on an experiment will be assessed throughout the year. 

Prerequisite for : NCEA level Social Sciences subjects – Year 11-13 Geography; Year 11-13 History; and Year 13 Classical Studies.  

Students study a variety of important social and civil issues, enabling them to make informed decisions as global citizens. Social Sciences at Year 10 develops students’ critical thinking and analytical skills, crucial to study at the NCEA level. From 2023 the new Aotearoa New Zealand histories curriculum became compulsory.  

Topics are drawn from the following, including rohe and local contexts: 

- Whakapapa me te whanaungatanga - Culture and identity  

- Tino rangatiratanga me te kāwanatanga – Government and organisation 

- Tūrangawaewae me te kaitiakitanga – Place and environment 

- Kōwhiringa ohaoha me te whai orange – Economic activity. 

Recommended study for : Year 11 Te Reo Māori  

Students will build on their existing knowledge, using familiar language with greater flexibility while beginning to understand new language through context. They will read and write simple stories, dialogues, and recipes in te reo Māori, and use language to respond to everyday situations such as giving and following directions and requests. They will also continue to develop effective language learning strategies to support their ongoing progress. 

Students will do this in contexts such as mihimihi – formal introduction, te marae, ngā hākari (feasts and celebrations), Matariki, ngā haerenga (journeys), Te Wiki o te Reo Māori and ngā pūrākau (Māori legends). 

Students will continue to engage with tikanga Māori and examine the ongoing revitalisation of te reo Māori in Aotearoa, developing a sense of responsibility for promoting and upholding the language within their communities. 

Recommended study for: Year 11 Materials and Processing Technology 

A resistant, multi-materials-based course involving aspects of the Technology curriculum, allowing students to be innovative and creative. Students will acquire practical skills when making products of ‘take home’ quality. This course provides a strong skill foundation and understanding of technology procedures for study in Year 11 Technology. 

Graphics and design (DVC) will also be partly covered as appropriate to the course. 

COURSE LEADS TO:  

NCEA Level 1 Materials and Processing Technology – Materials, Food or Textiles and Design and Visual Communication (Graphics) 

Recommended study for : Year 11 Materials and Processing Technology 

This is a course that will prepare you for Level 1 - Materials and Processing Technology – Textiles, as well as Year 12 and 13 Fashion & Design (FAD).   At Year 10 you will firstly work on a group project, learning collaboration and decision-making, as well as developing new textiles skills.  The second project will be your own project* of choice that solves an issue or problem for an end-user who could be you, a family member or a friend. Textiles will allow you to build sewing confidence, explore creativity with fabric mediums, and applied design. in the use of a variety of textiles. 

COURSE LEADS TO:  

NCEA – Level 1 Materials and Processing Technology– Food, Textiles or Materials or Design and Visual Communication  

Recommended study for: Year 11 DVC 

This course covers all aspects of graphics communication and technical drawing skills. Students will apply the design process when developing product concepts and ideas. 

Students will also use a range of tools, equipment and multimedia. 

COURSE LEADS TO:  

NCEA Level 1, 2 and 3 DVC  

Recommended study for: Year 11 Art 

Students will develop the following skills which leads to Year 11 Art. 

Drawing: Using pencil to create realistic, observational drawing 

Painting: Using painting conventions such as flat colour and blending to create a finished painting  

Printmaking: Students will be introduced to dry-point etching and will work through the process of creating a finished print  

Photography: Students will have an opportunity to learn about photography conventions and complete their own set of photographs 

Sculpture: Students will learn how to make a vessel using ceramic clay, which will be fired and glazed into a final work 

Students will create artwork that responds to both contemporary and traditional artists and themes. Students will work within a theme but will have choice of their own subject matter and creative outcomes which allows agency and their own creativity to develop. 

Students will be introduced to ways of working that support learning at senior level.