Curriculum

St Paul’s operates on the philosophy that students should follow a balanced, general education, at least until the end of Year 11. We also believe that students should place an emphasis on both specific career pathways and obtaining a strong educational base. Our 2010 Curriculum Choices booklets are available for download. They are approx 60 pages and in PDF format.

All Year 9 and Year 10 students study a core curriculum comprising: English, Mathematics, Physical Science, Social Studies, Technology (Art/Graphics/Materials), Health & Physical Education, Drama/Computer Studies (Year 9 only) Music, (Year 9 only) Enterprise Studies (Year 10 only), French/Maori (optional choice in Year 10), and Religious Studies.

In English, Mathematics and Physical Science students will be assessed using the Cambridge assessment system. In all other subjects, students will be assessed using the NCEA assessment regime. This will give students exposure to both assessment systems and will be an advantage to them when they decide on which course they will follow in their senior years.

At Tihoi (Year 10), Social Education is included as a core subject.

At the end of Year10, students and parents will be provided with detailed information clearly setting out guidelines necessary for the efficient planning of the course of study for  Year 11. Students and parents  will be advised by or may consult staff about the selection of an appropriate course for their son.

A student usually studies six subjects at Year 11. 

All Year 11 students enter for NCEA Level 1. Students have been given the option of studying English and Mathematics under the Cambridge qualification. These students will still qualify for NCEA Level One Certificates but will have the added advantage of being able to further their studies in the Cambridge Qualification in their senior years at school.

Year 12 students are entered for NCEA Level 2.

Most students study five subjects; some are able to study six subjects following approval from the Assistant Principal.

Year 13 students normally sit NCEA Level 3 courses.  Some students are
permitted to do multi-level courses on the recommendation of the
Assistant Principal or the Guidance Counsellor.

A student must satisfy the following requirements to be eligible for entrance to tertiary education by having  64 credits made up of the following:

• 14 credits in Mathematics at Level 1 or higher,
• 4 credits at Reading English 
• 4 credits at Writing English at Level 2 or higher
  
• 14 credits in each of two listed Level 3 subjects (all St Paul’s subjects except Technology),
  
• a cumulative total of 14 credits in any two other Level 3 subjects

If students are unsure about entry requirements they should make an appointment to see the Careers Advisor.

N.B: Different courses at Universities and Polytechnics have varying entry requirements.The Careers Advisor provides up-to-date information on the entry requirements of each course at the majority of tertiary institutions around the world. Students should check prior to embarking on Year 13 study to ensure they are taking the correct subjects to assist their admission to their chosen tertiary institution.