All course information is available on SchoolBridge and can be viewed either on the web version or the app. It is recommended that every student and caregiver download the app.
Students will be guided through their options with their kaiārahi.
Students make their course selections for the year ahead and then select ‘Complete’. This will then prompt an email to their parents or caregivers to approve or decline the courses via the app.
Middle School Course Selection
Year 9
Students in Year 9 will experience learning in all curriculum areas. English, Maths, Science (half year), Social Studies (half year), Physical Education, Financial and Digital Literacy are all compulsory. Students must also select one subject from each of the Arts, Languages and Technology.
Year 10
Students in Year 10 will experience learning in a range of curriculum areas. English, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies and Physical Education (half year) are all compulsory. Students must also select one Arts subject and either two semester choices or one full-year choice.
Senior School Course Selection
In the Senior School, students select from a broad and balanced learning programme. When planning a course of study and choosing subjects, students should consider the following:
- Personal interests, abilities and career aspirations.
- Entry requirements for further study or chosen career paths.
- The types of standards offered (Achievement or Unit Standards) and credit values.
- Approved subject status for University Entrance, where applicable.
- Associated course costs and flexibility to adapt learning pathways over time.
Year 11 (OC Foundation Certificate)
In 2027, Orewa College is introducing the "OC Foundation Certificate" to replace NCEA Level 1 ahead of upcoming curriculum changes. While this is an internal qualification rather than an NZQA one, English and Maths will retain specific NCEA assessments to support Literacy and Numeracy requirements.
Students must select an English and Mathematics course alongside four other options.
Year 12 (NCEA Level 2)
NCEA Level 2 is the second stage of the National Certificate of Educational Achievement, typically undertaken in Year 12. It builds on foundational learning and is a key qualification for entry into many tertiary programmes and employment pathways.
All students must select an English course and five elective options. The Vocational Pathways programme and Work Ready Programme are also available, providing opportunities to achieve Level 2 credits while preparing for employment.
Year 13 (NCEA Level 3)
NCEA Level 3 is the final stage of the National Certificate of Educational Achievement, typically undertaken in Year 13. It is a significant academic milestone that prepares students for University Entrance, higher tertiary education and advanced employment opportunities.
Students study six subjects (five options plus a study period). Additional options include Scholarship subjects, independent study applications and work experience through the Gateway programme.
Senior Graduation
Although not all students complete Level 3 qualifications, those who complete Year 13 and demonstrate the attributes as defined by our school vision will be acknowledged for demonstrating the ability to be responsible, independent, confident, proud, well-balanced and motivated young adults.
They are acknowledged in our Senior Graduation ceremony as part of our academic prizegiving at the completion of their final year.
Alternative Course Structures and/or Timetable
Applications to study at a higher level will be considered. Students need to demonstrate independent learning abilities, self-management and academic capability. A long-term learning plan will be formulated, and students will be asked to enter into a contract to maintain high achievement.
- Online Learning (Kōtui Ako): Available primarily for Year 11–13 students to resolve timetable clashes or access unavailable subjects.
- Scholarship Subjects: Year 12 and 13 students can undertake Scholarship examinations to demonstrate advanced critical thinking and integration of concepts. Scholarship papers are not a qualification and do not contribute to NCEA qualifications.
- Tertiary Pathways: Year 13 students may apply to complete first year university papers through the Young Scholars Program (UoA), Unistart (Waikato), Accelerate + (Massey University) or STAR (UoC).
- Subject Changes: All subject adjustments must be arranged through the relevant Head of Department.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about course selection at Orewa College.
Where is course information available?
All course information is available on SchoolBridge and can be viewed either on the website or the app.
Who will guide students through their options?
Students will be guided through their options with their kaiārahi.
How are course selections approved?
Students make their course selections for the year ahead and then select ‘Complete’. This will prompt an email to their parents or caregivers to approve or decline the courses via the app.
How can students make subject changes?
All subject adjustments must be arranged through the relevant year-level Dean.
Useful Links
Use the link below to view course information and complete course selections.
Contact
Find out more about course selection at Orewa College
For more information about course selection or subject adjustments, please contact the relevant year-level Dean.