Core Curriculum

The NZ Curriculum has eight key learning areas:

Mathematics   English   Social Science   Science   The Arts   Technology   Physical   Education   Health and Wellbeing

Each school will have developed a local curriculum essence statements. These statements are what we as a school believe sits at the heart of the core curriculum areas and everything we do strives to achieve that essence statement . 

As part of our delivery we use Integrated curriculum learning (see the statement below for Kohimarama School’s understanding of Integrated Curriculum) within Rich Learning Opportunities. This is designed to be a natural integration. In planning this way we ensure curriculum coverage while taking advantage of any special events or celebrations going on in  the lives of our akonga, in New Zealand and around the world.

“Our Integrated Curriculum is relevant, engaging, teaches

transferable skills, promotes agentic learning which in turn

broadens and transforms students’ thinking and    

Understanding.”

 

The NZ Curriculum currently requires that the following:

  Learning areas are covered, alongside English and Mathematics, over a two year level period to ensure students have a broad,  general education. 

Our Macro concepts  provide contexts for this and are often explored within an inquiry cycle or working through the DICE learning process model.

Second Language - Year 7/8 :- 

Ākonga will be exposed to a new language and culture. It will build an appreciation of culture, heritage and language. They will pronounce, practice and participate in lessons that aim to spark connections and passion to continue learning in future school opportunities. 

Mathematics:-

Mathematics is developing numerical concepts to deepen ākonga understanding of the world around them. Mathematics allows ākonga to explore different relationships, patterns and problems by extending their logical reasoning and deepening their thinking. It provides opportunities to challenge their own thinking and analyse information presented to them in all its forms. Mathematics includes authentic real life opportunities which allow ākonga to become lifelong learners.

Social Science:-

Social Sciences creates curiosity and respect for places, people, cultures and systems. At Kohimarama School, we empower kaiakō and tauira to value and develop a deep understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi. By using the curriculum framework of Understand, Know, Do; our tauira will make connections between the past, present and future in order to be culturally responsive participants in the Kohimarama Community and Aotearoa as a whole.

Science:-

Science involves sparking a passion for learning about the physical and non-physical world. It aims to foster awe, wonder, and engagement of the world around us and beyond. Science develops an appreciation of the evolving nature of scientific knowledge structures, its processes, and its relationship with society and culture. Science is not only fundamental but helpful in our understanding of life, its processes as well as improving life through technological advancements. Science develops courage, curiosity, resilience, collaboration and reflection. These simple yet powerful tools help to create and expand the inquiring mind. 

The Arts:- 

The Arts are an opportunity for ākonga to reflect on and represent their world and ideas. It helps them to develop the skills of creativity, reflection and effective communication, while encouraging collaboration and the ability for all children to express themselves. The Arts provide an opportunity for all students to engage with success and enjoyment. All disciplines (Visual arts, Drama, Music and Drama) explore different forms of communication which are inclusive and create a common language of expression beyond formal academic modes. 

Technology:-

E-Learning is supporting and enhancing learning through the use of technology. Each learner will develop skills and understandings that enable them to think in innovative ways and represent their learning through a range of media. They will become critical consumers of digital literacy and responsible Digital Citizens by using technology in meaningful real-world contexts.

Physical Education:-

To enable our ākonga, kaiako and school community to have a healthy and positive attitude toward physical activity and understand its benefits. Through active engagement and skill development, learners will build resilience and confidence. They will apply strategies that are essential to living an active life.

Health and Wellbeing :- 

The Health and Wellbeing Curriculum develops resilience; a sense of personal and social responsibility; strategies for living a full and healthy life; and provides the foundation for all learning both academically and socially. Through the philosophy of Hauora and the Te Whare Tapa Wha model we aim to create happy, confident  ākonga who have a sense of belonging within our school community. Ākonga  are supported to develop their understanding and responsibility for their own physical and emotional wellbeing and participate successfully in the wider world. 

Learning Through Play:-

At Kohimarama School, learning through play is a valued platform that allows ākonga (students) to engage in rich, meaningful and agentic learning, which supports the Kohimarama Way.

It is distinct from the broader concept of ‘play’, where ākonga are able to take risks, explore, investigate, experiment, discover and solve problems in imaginative and creative ways. 

The role of the teacher is critical for success. The teacher plans for and facilitates play through noticing, recognising and responding. This positively impacts ākonga academic skills and development of physical, social and cognitive abilities. 

Education Outside the Classroom:-

School camps and class trips offer opportunities to extend learning and social skills.