Curriculum

Twizel Area School follows the New Zealand National Curriculum framework and teaches the eight learning areas. Units of work are National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA)also embedded with the five Key Competencies. A list of all subjects is available here and further information about courses are available to students at course selection.

Students work towards national qualifications which involves a mixture of Unit and Achievement Standards and at NCEA Levels 1, 2 and 3. Some students sit Scholarship.

The School is organised as follows:
Middle School – Years 7-10
Senior School – Years 11-13

Middle School
The major aims in the Middle School are:

• to give students a sound integrated grounding in the core subjects;
• to give students the opportunity to explore and experience a wide range of other curriculum areas with specialist teachers
• to provide a “significant” teacher who knows them well
• Middle School subjects available

 

Senior School

The major aims in the Senior School are:

• to give students a sound preparation in the subjects they are studying for external awards and qualifications
• to equip students for the transition to the post-school world of employment or further education
• to provide each student with a relevant course of study, which matches the individual’s strength and abilities. Some courses are offered by correspondence and Video Conferencing.
• Senior subjects available

Students in Years 11-13 may enter for the following external qualifications:

National Certificate Level 1

National Certificate Level 2

National Certificate Level 3.
(NCEA Level 1-3 can be a mixture of Unit and Achievement Standards)

Note: Unit Standards and Achievement Standards are registered on the Qualifications Framework and credited towards the National Certificate or towards any other NZQA qualification, such as Polytechnic or industry qualifications.

Year 11

All students study English, Mathematics and Physical Education. Science is highly recommended. Students also select two or three additional optional subjects, depending on their academic ability.

Opportunities are available for ongoing in-class support for students as part of the normal programme as well as support programmes for students with gaps in their learning.