Qualifications

Our international students will be integrated into our classes and curriculum based on their learning needs.

Middle College

Years 7, 8 and 9

Students in Years 7, 8 and 9 enjoy the structure and security of a single homeroom situation with their individual teachers taking them for their core subjects.  The Year 7, 8 and 9 core subjects include English, Mathematics, Social Studies, Health and Christian Living.

Specialist teachers may take the group for Science, Physical Education, Art, Te Reo, Music, Digital and Food Technology.  

In Years 7, 8 and 9 special attention is given to any student experiencing learning difficulties through Specialist Teacher and Teacher Aide assistance and support.  Students who are achieving at a very high level are catered for through differentiation in the classroom. There are also opportunities to be involved in Problem-solving, ICAS exams, Mathex, and Science Fair.

The Middle College teachers work closely together in their planning and provision of an integrated learning environment and curriculum. 

Christian aspects are embedded within programmes and a morning devotions session provides a specific opportunity to focus on our Christian special character. 

Parents are encouraged to partner with teachers in the learning process, and keep communication links open at all times. 

Senior College

Year 10

All Year 10 students follow a common course of core subjects. These include: English, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Physical Education, Health, Art, Music, Food and Digital Technology, Te Reo, and Christian Living.

Year 11

Studies at this level are made up of internally and externally assessed Achievement Standards and or Unit Standards which contribute to the National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA) Level One.  Students study five subjects with English and Mathematics being the compulsory ones. Standards are also available in ESOL.  For the full range of subjects available see the curriculum option booklet.

International students will be expected to do some of the ESOL standards when they reach the appropriate level.

Year 12 

Studies at this level are made up of internally and externally assessed Achievement Standards and or Unit Standards which contribute to the National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA) Level Two. ESOL standards are available.

Depending on their abilities and achievements to date, Year 12 students, on the advice of the Senior College Team Leader, may take a combination of the subjects offered at the Year 11 and 12 levels.

Year 13

Studies at this level lead to assessment against Levels 3 and 4 Achievement Standards and/or Unit Standards in a maximum of five option subjects for each student. Extension opportunities are available in the form of New Zealand Education Scholarship Trust (NZEST) examinations. Depending on their achievements and abilities to date, Year 13 students may, on the advice of the Senior College Team Leader, take a combination of the subjects offered at the Year 11, 12 and 13 levels. 

The college and tertiary education institutions highly recommend that Year 13 students take English as a desirable basis for future studies and employment.

Depending on the student’s level of competence in English, International students are encouraged to sit some New Zealand standards.

Video conferencing is an option at Excellere College. This provides opportunities to study options which are unavailable face-to-face. Entry into this form of learning is done through consultation with our e-Dean and the Senior College leader. 

STAR/Gateway courses follow vocational pathways to enhance student learning.

Trades Academy places for selected students are also available. 

Supporting our Diverse learners

All our learners have a strength based, engaging program that has a high level of individual structure. Our strong sense of community and shared responsibility is evident from Year 1-13

English Speakers of other Languages (ESOL)

We cater for our English Language Learners(ELLs) with a robust inclusive approach

• Structured Literacy approach (Year 1-8) this pedagogical approach ensures that all students have explicit instruction with learning letter name, sound and spelling patterns
• Specialist ESOL teacher (Year 9-13) designs, oversees and provides one on one, small group and in class support as require
• Specifically trained ESOL learning support assistance (Year 1-13) works with identified individuals following a specific program and general support in class

Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCo)

• Our SENCo coordinates and works alongside a wide variety of outside stakeholders to ensure all students are catered for and work towards a well rounded education