Language options available at the College are summarised below. More detailed information can be found in the Languages section of SchoolPoint – our online interactive course selection tool.
English Language (EL)
This subject aims to increase a student’s confidence and competency in all four areas of language learning – speaking, listening, writing and reading, through various learning strategies and activities. Students will work towards gaining English Language Unit Standard credits at the level suited to them best. Particular emphasis is on literacy skills, essay writing and general academic vocabulary used in NCEA.
French
This subject aims to take students from absolute beginner to Level 7and 8 of the NZ Curriculum over the years. In the process, students will learn how to communicate in different situations on various topics, enlarge their vocabulary and knowledge of grammar and develop cultural awareness. They will develop the skills to learn any language and gain skills in thinking and critical analysis. Exchange opportunities and a biennial trip to New Caledonia may be available for Year 12 and 13 students, and a camp in Year 13.
German
In Year 9, students will learn to use familiar expressions and everyday vocabulary using German comprehension, speaking and writing skills in authentic situations. In Years 10 to 13, students gradually expand their language skills to become more confident in discussions and to justify their ideas and opinions. German is the most widely spoken language in Europe. Learning German can open up opportunities, especially in tourism, trade, science and technology. Exchange opportunities may be available for students in Years 12 and 13.
Te Reo Māori
In this subject, students will learn to use basic Māori language patterns to converse with Te Reo Māori speakers in familiar social situations and cope with some less familiar ones. They will develop a willingness to experiment with a new language and read independently. Learning to write short passages, personal letters, and simple formal letters in Te Reo Māori, students will increasingly gain confidence using a range of strategies for learning Te Reo Māori. The course develops the ability to communicate with others in predominantly Māori social contexts.
Spanish
This subject is on offer only for students in Years 12 and 13. It is for native speakers of Spanish to gain NCEA credits in their language, but it is also available for language students to learn an additional language. Students need to have already achieved NCEA Level 1 in a language. The course takes these students from absolute beginners to Level 5 of the New Zealand Curriculum. In the process, they will learn how to communicate in different situations on various topics and advance their Spanish vocabulary and knowledge of grammar while developing cultural awareness.