Junior Curriculum
BYOD
Tauranga Boys' College is a BYOD school. All students need to bring a device to school. A student-owned internet-capable device is now an important part of a student's toolkit, giving him instant access to unlimited resources and enabling him to support, extend, communicate and share his learning in a way that best prepares him for the future. Your son will experience technology integrated into curriculum delivery via Google Classroom, Education Perfect, etc. Alongside these online platforms, there is still place for books, paper and pen, and you will have noticed a greatly reduced stationery list.
The recommended device is a Chromebook or laptop, however, you may choose another device, provided it can hold its charge for up to six hours, and connect to the internet. It must have the latest version of Google Chrome installed. Phones are not an approved learning device.
Mainstream Classes
All Year 9 and 10 students learn in mixed-ability core classes for their compulsory subjects of English, Social Studies, Mathematics, Science, Health and Physical Education.
The exceptions to our mainstream core classes are the Accelerate classes (2 at each year level) Inquiry Learning classes (2 at each year level) Aronui Class (1 at each year level). Information on these programmes is below.
Accelerate Programme
The Tauranga Boys’ College Accelerate Programme provides an academic platform from which students can advance their learning in key subjects faster than others. Selection and continuing involvement is dependent on academic success. Selection takes into consideration Year 8 academic achievement and results and the entrance test. The final selection is made by the Year 9 Academic and Accelerate Tutors. Students need to display the characteristics considered fundamental to success in an accelerated environment, including motivation, determination, initiative and time management. Students in the Accelerate Programme are encouraged to take Philosophy as one of their options.
Inquiry Learning
Inquiry Learning classes have two teachers, instead of four, to cover the core curriculum areas of English, Maths, Science and Social Studies. The class has a student-centered, project-based approach for students to develop skills in critical thinking, collaboration, communication, creativity and problem-solving. More information here
Aronui
Te Whānau-a-Aronui is a supportive learning environment embracing Te Reo Māori, Tikanga Māori and the college’s ethos and principles in striving for excellence. All students in Aronui will be required to study Te Reo Māori, English, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies and Health and Physical Education. Boys are also encouraged to select Māori Performing Arts and Whakairo (Māori carving) as option subjects. Aronui students will have four option subjects. Anyone can apply to enrol in Aronui, however, it should be noted that acceptance is a privilege. There are high expectations relating to te reo and tikanga Māori, learning attitude, effort, achievement, attendance, behaviour, commitment and whānau support. More information here
During a student’s progress through the College, his Academic Tutor and Form Teacher will talk to him about courses and advise him on his selection of subjects. It is important that parents with questions and/or feedback relating to courses and options consult with their son’s Academic Tutor in the first instance.
View Detailed Course Information
Year 9
All students are required to take the following core subjects:
English, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Health and Physical Education
Students also choose eight one-term options: More information on Year 9 classes and each of these options can also be found here:
Year 9 Course and Option Information
At least two of | At least two of | At least one of |
Carving (Wood or Bone) Digital Technology Design & Visual Communication Food Technology Industry Trades Product Technology | Art Design Drama Film Making Māori Performing Arts Music | Japanese Mandarin Spanish Te Reo Māori Reading |
Additional options | ||
Agricultural & Horticultural Science Athlete Development Business Studies Philosophy |
Year 10
All students are required to take the following core subjects:
English, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Health and Physical Education,
Students also choose four half-year options:
At least one of | At least one of | Additional Options |
Carving (Wood or Bone) Design & Visual Communication Digital Technology Food Technology Industry Trades Product Technology STEM | Art Design Drama Film Making Māori Performing Arts Music | Agricultural & Horticultural Science Athlete Development Programme Business Studies Environmental Science Japanese Philosophy Spanish Te Reo Māori |
Accelerated learning students also have access to Cambridge IGCSE subjects: English, Mathematics, Physical Education, and either History or Geography.
Accelerated Learning Programme
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