About the Academic Curriculum
Our curriculum is based on the learning areas of the New Zealand curriculum, delivered in an enjoyable and challenging learning environment where every student is given the chance to find his unique strengths
Specialist subject teachers and small class sizes mean a range of quality teachers are involved in each student's education. This gives us a broader view of each student's performance and wellbeing so we can cater to his individual needs.
Lessons are based on a unique range of learning areas:
- English
- Mathematics
- Languages (including Te Reo Māori, New Zealand Languages and Culture)
- Performing Arts (music, drama and Māori Performing Arts)
- Science
- Social Sciences (Social Studies, Christian Education, Environmental Education for Sustainability)
- Technology (Digital and Materials)
- Visual Arts
- Physical Education and Health
- Financial Literacy
Academic achievement is assessed and reported back to parents/caregivers regularly. Students with exceptional abilities in particular subjects will be offered extension programmes. Where a learning need is identified parents are informed, and extra support is provided.
Assessment and Reporting
We assess academic achievement and report back to you on all aspects of your boy's progress regularly. Where a learning need is identified, we will talk to you about this and extra support will be offered. This could be in the form of remedial work or extension.
Assessment
We use a range of assessment tools to identify students' learning needs. This information guides our teaching, as it helps teachers to judge student achievement and determine next steps.
Assessment tools include:
- Assessment Tools for Teaching and Learning (asTTle) - Ministry of Education tools for assessing writing against national standards.
- Progressive Achievement Tests (PAT) – standardised tests for assessing progress in core subjects including Mathematics and Reading.
- PROBE tests for assessing reading accuracy and comprehension.
- Schonell tests to determine spelling ages.
- GLOSS and IKAN tests for testing Mathematics.
Reporting
Throughout the year, we report back to you on your son's progress.
In Term 1 there is a chance to meet your son’s teachers. This will allow you to gain some insight into the everyday workings of the School, ask any questions you might have and hear about how he has settled into the new academic year.
Each term there are also reports that get sent home, providing information on your son’s academic progress and effort. This is in addition to weekly notes, which are grades you receive each Friday to keep you updated on your son’s work habits and behaviour in class that week. This all culminates with an end of year written report in Term 4.