Curriculum (Academic Programme)

The Kelston Girls' College Board of Trustees strategic goal states:

To provide a quality learning environment that is based on enhancing knowledge, skills, attitudes and values outlined in the National curriculum framework and which is aimed at enabling students to attain their full potential.

 

ERO (Education Review Office) reported that: 'the staff and Board of Kelston Girls' respond to the learning needs of students in relevant and innovative ways. The school provides a range of academic, cultural and sporting opportunities that cater appropriately for the aspirations of students and their families. The pleasant rapport between staff and students, contributes to the positive tone of the school.

Trustees and staff have a shared commitment to continuous school improvement and a determination to advance student achievement. This report affirms the leadership and strategic direction of the school.

 

Diverse learning opportunities to meet the diverse needs of our young women. One size does not fit all in education.  We offer : 

  • HMC (High Motivation Class) - for high achieving students who are challenged to use high order thinking skills.
 
  • HPS (High Performance Sports Academy) - students achieving at a high level in sport.
 
  • Auhia Class - motivated Maori students studying Te Reo can apply to join this class at Year 10.
 
  • Pacific Nations Class - motivated Pacific Nations students can apply to join this class at Year 10.
 
  • Gifted and Talented projects.
 
  • asTTle testing in Literacy, Numeracy and Writing to focus on the individual learning needs of students at Years 9 and 10.
 
  • Te Kotahitanga project.
 
  • Foundation Classes - for students new to New Zealand for whom English is a second language. The class prepares students to enter mainstream learning with confidence.
 
  • Integrated Studies - this is a qualification and programme for students who wish to study for NCEA Level 1 over two years.
 
  • Student Learning Support - for students who have special learning needs. This support is available from Year 9 to Year 13.
 
  • Hearing Impaired Unit - attached to Kelston Girls is a Deaf Unit for hearing impaired girls. The students are taught in the Unit by teachers of the deaf and / or supported in the mainstream by teachers, interpreters or educational associates.
 
  • Homework Centre for Refugee students.
 
  • Homework Centre – Tuesday and Thursday 3:30 – 4:30 pm
 
  • ESOL (English Speakers of Other Languages) and EAP Classes (English for Academic purposes) - for second language students
 
  • Gateway - Senior students gain workplace experience and unit standard ITO (Industry Training Organisation) qualifications while still studying at school.
 
  • Youth Apprenticeships – Kelston Girls’ College is one of 10 pilot schools across New Zealand chosen to provide apprenticeship opportunities for students while still studying for part of their time at school.
 
  • Mentoring programmes for senior students.
 
  • Peer Support for Year 9 students.

 

 

Junior school

All Year 9 and 10 students receive training in ICT skills. Study in all seven curriculum areas is compulsory in
Year 9.

  • English(language & other languages)
  • Maths
  • Science
  • Social Sciences
  • The Arts
  • PE/Health
  • Technology

International and community languages offered are German, Japanese, Maori and Samoan. At the end of Year 10 students can earn a graduation certificate outlining their:

  • Attendance
  • Literacy
  • Numeracy
  • IT skills

Senior school

NCEA (National Certificate of Educational Achievement) Levels 1, 2 and 3 and Integrated Studies are available.
English and Mathematics are compulsory at Years 11 and 12. Multi level learning is supported.

At Years 12 and 13, courses that operate for semesters of two terms are available e.g. presentation and personal grooming / budgeting and money matters / preparation for work.  These courses all offer Unit Standards.

Year 14 catch up classes are available for students who need to complete Achievement Standards or Literacy and Numeracy Level 1 and 2, before joining University or a course in the second half of the year.  This is a much cheaper option than doing a Foundation course at a tertiary institution. 

Phone:

Linda Fox               09 827 9624

Marion Buckland     09 827 9625

Senior students

Lunchtime catch-up programmes are available to all students throughout the year. The Homework Centre is open on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 3.30-6.30.