Learning

Course Information

In the senior school, students select from a broad and balanced learning programme.

In selecting a programme of study students need to consider:

  • What their interests and abilities are.
  • Which subjects they enjoy the most.
  • The skills they have and would like to develop.
  • Their future career interests.
  • Any subject requirements (prerequisites) at the next level.

In planning course and choosing subjects, students needs to consider the following:

  • The prerequisites for entry into each subject.
  • The level at which the subject stops.
  • The number of credits generated by each subject.
  • Whether the subject offers Achievement Standards or Unit Standards.
  • Whether or not the subject is an approved subject (for University Entrance).
  • What subjects, grades, credits are needed for entry to the University/course they are interested in attending.
  • The total subject course cost eg. Art, Food Technology, Geography, History
  • That this subject equips them with the skills, knowledge and understanding they need to enter their chosen career path.
  • That they have the flexibility to change their course design if career goals change.

Year 11

All students must take an English and Mathematics course, and are to choose four further options to complete their course of study.

For more information for parents/caregivers on NZQA please click here | School Point Course Selection

To gain NCEA Level 1 students need 80 credits which includes 10 credits for Numeracy and 10 credits for literacy.

Year 12

All students must select an English course, and are to choose five further options to complete their course of study.

The Pathways programme provides students with the opportunity to achieve Level 2 credits while preparing for the world of work.

For more information for parents/caregivers on NZQA please click here | School Point Course Selection

To gain NCEA Level 2 students need 80 credits, 20 of which can be carried over from Level 1.

Students should also be working towards University Entrance Literacy.

Year 13

Students will be required to study six subjects.

Students may also work towards other National Qualifications as well as gaining work experience through the Gateway programme.

Students may select a scholarship subject during course selections, and may apply for an independent study.

Students may enter one or more scholarship standards (Level 4) as well as their Level 3 standards. This assessement extends the best secondary students and enables the top scholars throughout the country to be identified and acknowledged. Students are expected to synthesise and integrate concepts, and to apply higher level thinking based on in-school and independent learning.

To gain NCEA Level 3 students need 80 credits, 20 of which can be carried over from Level 2.

Students should also be working towards University Entrance Literacy.

For more information for parents/caregivers on NZQA please click here | School Point Course Selection

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

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.

Flexible timetable arrangements may be negotiated.

To apply to change your subject, please click here: Subject Change Form

Please note that changes will take effect within 24 hours.