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Senior Years 11 – 13

The Arts 2026

  • Dance
  • Drama
  • Music
  • Visual Arts

Dance

This course is for students who wish to delve more deeply into the world of performance and choreography of Dance. A willingness to perform in front of authentic audiences and work with others to choreograph interesting dance pieces is essential.

There will also be opportunities to use production technologies such as costuming to bring performances together. Students will learn to appreciate the importance of the elements of dance when telling stories through dance and develop their movement vocabulary when experimenting with a range of different dance genres.

Dance - NCEA Level 1

Programme Description : This NCEA Level 1 Dance course offers an exploration of various dance styles, incorporating and embracing identity and creativity. You will develop fundamental dance techniques, choreography skills, and performance abilities while working in a supportive, fun environment. The course aims to develop your physical, creative, and analytical skills, nurturing a lifelong appreciation for dance and the Arts.

Opportunities in Level 1:

  • Dance could include but not limited to;
  • Participation in the annual Dance Showcase
  • Out of school Dance competitions
  • Tuition from guest teachers and choreographers
  • The opportunity to work alongside other schools in the Waikato region
  • Gaining experience in Dance genres such as; jazz, lyrical jazz, contemporary, poi, hip hop and musical theatre.
  • Level 1 NCEA credits will be offered

Learning Outcomes/Contexts:

  • Choreograph dances in small groups using the elements of dance
  • Communicate intentions through small group and solo choreography
  • Use performance skills when performing in front of an authentic audience.
  • Show understanding and application of technique in dance styles such as jazz, lyrical, musical theatre and hip hop.
  • Design costumes for the purpose of performance.
  • Create costumes for the purpose of performance.

Skills and Capabilities:

  • Exploration and experimentation during choreography Interpretation of others performances and of ideas in own choreography
  • Ability to respond to performances Integrating of thinking, moving and feeling
  • Creative, critical thinking and problem solving
  • Ask questions and challenge other perceptions through choreography
  • Developing a can-do attitude when working with others or individually
  • Make plans, manage time and tasks and set high standards
  • Active involvement in our performing arts community
  • Ability to contribute appropriately as a group member

Cross Curriculum Links:

Health and Physical Education, Performing Arts Technology, Fabric Technology

Possibly leads to :

  • University Entrance (if carried on until Level 3)
  • Opportunities to be involved in the Performing Arts community (in New Zealand and world wide)
  • Teaching in a range of contexts Dance studies
  • Opportunities to attend other learning organisations specialising in Performing Arts
  • Careers in the film/tv industry

Assessment Opportunities:

There will be 15 credits on offer in this Level 1 course. 10 of which are gained through internal assessments and five through the external assessment. Dance is an approved subject for University Entrance.

Dance - NCEA Level 2

Programme Description: Level 2 Dance offers an exhilarating journey into the world of dance, igniting your passion for movement and self-expression. This course encompasses a blend of theory and practical, exploring various dance styles, choreography, and performance techniques. It is an opportunity to develop your creativity as you craft original dance pieces, collaborate with peers to captivate audiences in our annual Dance Showcase. The course encourages self-discovery, growth, and the development of confidence both on and off the stage as well as performances, and group projects that foster teamwork and celebrations of student progress.

Learning Outcomes/Contexts:

Choreograph dances in small groups using the elements of dance Communicate intentions through small group and solo choreography Use performance skills when performing in front of an authentic audience. Show understanding and application of technique in dance styles such as jazz, lyrical, musical theatre and hip hop.

Skills and Capabilities:

Exploration and experimentation during choreography Interpretation of others performances and of ideas in own choreography Ability to respond to performances Integrating of thinking, moving and feeling Creative, critical thinking and problem solving Ask questions and challenge other perceptions through choreography Developing a can-do attitude when working with others or individually Make plans, manage time and tasks and set high standards Active involvement in our performing arts community Ability to contribute appropriately as a group member.

Cross Curriculum Links:

Performing Arts Technology, Fabric Technology, Health and Physical Education.

Possibly leads to:

University Entrance (if carried on until Level 3) Opportunities to be involved in the Performing Arts community (in New Zealand and world wide) Teaching in a range of contexts Opportunities to attend other learning organisations specialising in Performing Arts Careers in the film/tv industry.

Assessment Opportunities:

There will be at least 14 credits available in Level 2 Dance with the option to pick up extra learning and assessment opportunities. Dance is an approved subject for University Entrance.

Dance - NCEA Level 3

Programme Description : Level 3 Dance NCEA is an inspiring and comprehensive course that takes your dance journey to its pinnacle. Through a combination of technical mastery and artistic exploration, this course deepens your understanding of various dance styles, such as contemporary, hip hop, and cultural forms. Engage in choreographic challenges, creating solo and group performances that reflect your unique artistic voice. Embrace opportunities for leadership, mentoring, and collaborative projects in the lead up to our annual Dance Showcase. Level 3 Dance NCEA celebrates individual growth and fosters a supportive community, empowering you to excel as a versatile, confident, and expressive dancer.

Learning Outcomes/Contexts:

Choreograph dances in small groups and individually using the elements of dance Communicate intentions through small group and solo choreography Use production technologies to assist in communicating an intention Use performance skills when performing in front of an authentic audience Show understanding and application of technique in dance styles such as jazz, lyrical, musical theatre and hip hop.

Skills and Capabilities:

Exploration and experimentation during choreography Interpretation of others performances and of ideas in own choreography Ability to respond to performances Integrating of thinking, moving and feeling Creative, critical thinking and problem solving Ask questions and challenge other perceptions through choreography Developing a can-do attitude when working with others or individually Make plans, manage time and tasks and set high standards Active involvement in our performing arts community Ability to contribute appropriately as a group member

Cross Curriculum Links:

Performing Arts Technology, Fabric Technology, Health and Physical Education

Possibly leads to:

University Entrance UE Literacy credits available in external examinations Opportunities to be involved in the Performing Arts community (in New Zealand and world wide) Teaching in a range of contexts Opportunities to attend other learning organisations specialising in Performing Arts Careers in the film/tv industry.

Assessment Opportunities:

There will be at least 14 credits available in Level 3 Dance with the option to pick up extra learning and assessment opportunities. UE Literacy credits in writing are available through the offered external examination. Dance is an approved subject for University Entrance.

Contact: Emma Fletcher (Dance Teacher)

Drama

Choosing Drama as a subject at school offers students a unique opportunity to develop essential life skills while exploring their creativity. Drama fosters confidence, public speaking abilities, teamwork, and empathy by encouraging students to step into different characters' shoes and collaborate with peers. It enhances critical thinking and problem-solving through creative storytelling and performance. Moreover, Drama can be a fun and engaging way to express oneself, build friendships, and gain a deeper understanding of human emotions and interactions.

Drama - NCEA Level 1

Programme Description : In Drama, learners tell stories and express their identity. They discover how drama can challenge and/or reinforce the status quo. Drama can provide opportunities for learners to explore and express Māori, Pacific, and other indigenous heritages. Learners explore and manipulate ideas and take creative risks. They share, rework, construct, and deconstruct work that is dynamic and evolving. Learners investigate, explore, and practise different ways of creating and structuring drama through using:

  • linear, thematic, cyclical, episodic, or non-narrative storytelling
  • the elements of drama (role, place, time, situation, action, tension, mood, contrast, focus, symbol)
  • a range of dramatic conventions to develop characters and deepen the audience’s engagement
  • production technologies (lighting, sound/music, digital projection, properties, makeup, costumes, the set) to create and develop mood and settings (place and time)
  • characters and situations brought to life in an imagined world.

In addition, drama students refine and craft the tools of the actor (drama techniques) by learning to:

  • use their body (gestures, facial expression, stance and posture, movement) to create and recreate the physical representation of characters, relationships, and situation
  • use their voice to communicate convincingly the thoughts and feelings of the characters they portray
  • engage with the performance space to develop the audiences’ understanding of character and situation.

Students will also develop:

  • public speaking and performance skills
  • idea generation and content creation
  • self-reflection and analysis
  • critical thinking
  • identifying target audiences and promoting work to them
  • technical production skills such as lighting, sound, and costume and prop design.

Cross Curriculum Links:

Performing Arts Technology

Possibly leads to :

  • Continued study at Tertiary Institutions in Theatre Arts, Performing Arts studies and Theatre and Film studies
  • Opportunities to be involved in the Performing Arts community (in New Zealand and world wide)
  • Teaching in a range of contexts
  • Careers in the theatre/film/television/ entertainment industry
  • Acting
  • Directing
  • Management
  • Other areas such as; Law, Education, History and other Humanities subjects.

Assessment Opportunities:

There will be 15 NCEA level 1 credits available. Drama is an approved subject for University Entrance.

Drama - NCEA Level 2

Programme Description:

Level 2 Drama is all about creating character and performing with purpose. This course develops the skills gained in Level 1 Drama and is performance based. Students will extend their drama skills, knowledge of theatre theories and performance, and apply this understanding to their own performances. They will devise their own drama, interpret scripts for performance, study a variety of theatre forms and perform a significant role in a class play in our purpose built mini theatre. We will aim to see at least one live professional theatre performance as part of exam preparation for this course. Students will also be involved in practical workshops with professionals where possible. Course content and assessment opportunities are confirmed in consultation with students at the beginning of the year to meet the needs and interests of the individuals.

Learning Outcomes/Contexts:

  • Create character and perform a role in a production
  • Devise drama in small groups using techniques, conventions and elements of Drama
  • Interpret texts
  • Communicate intentions through small group and solo performance tasks
  • Use performance skills when performing in front of an authentic audience.
  • Show understanding of a range of Theatre forms and Playwrights
  • Demonstrate understanding of live performance

Skills and Capabilities:

  • Exploration and experimentation during devised work
  • Interpretation of others’ performances and of ideas
  • Knowledge and understanding of Drama techniques, elements and conventions
  • Ability to respond to performances critically
  • Integrating of thinking, moving and feeling
  • Creative and critical thinking
  • Problem solving
  • Understanding the world of the play and of the playwright
  • Ask questions and challenge other perceptions through devising
  • Take risks and experiment to develop authentic self expression
  • Know that to work as an ensemble is a creative collaborative challenge
  • Time management to meet deadlines
  • Make plans, manage tasks and set high standards
  • Active involvement in our performing arts community
  • Ability to contribute appropriately as a group member.

Cross Curriculum Links:

Performing Arts Technology

Possibly Leads to:

  • Continued study at Tertiary Institutions in Theatre Arts, Performing Arts studies and Theatre and Film studies
  • Opportunities to be involved in the Performing Arts community (in New Zealand and world wide)
  • Teaching in a range of contexts
  • Careers in the theatre/film/television/ entertainment industry
  • Acting
  • Directing
  • Management Other areas such as; Law, Education, History and other Humanities subjects.

Assessment Opportunities:

Level 2 Drama offers 14 credits at level 2 with up to 9 reading credits. Drama is an approved subject for University Entrance.

Drama - NCEA Level 3

Programme Description:

Level 3 Drama explores what it really means to perform with intent and refines the skills gained in Level 2. Students will devise their own original drama to realise a concept, perform individually and in groups and will be involved in performing a significant play in our purpose built mini theatre to a live audience. They will continue to expand their knowledge around a variety of theatre forms as well discover more about NZ playwrights who have influenced the world of Theatre. There may also be opportunities for students to explore the skills involved in writing scripts and directing performances. We will aim to see at least one live professional theatre performance as part of exam preparation for this course. Students will also be involved in practical workshops with theatre professionals where possible. Course content and assessment opportunities are confirmed in consultation with students at the beginning of the year to meet the needs and interests of the individuals.

Learning Outcomes/Contexts:

  • Create character and perform a substantial role in a production
  • Devise drama as a soloist or in small groups using techniques, conventions and elements of Drama
  • Interpret texts
  • Communicate intentions through small group and solo performance tasks
  • Use performance skills when performing in front of an authentic audience
  • Show understanding of a range of Theatre forms and Playwrights
  • Demonstrate understanding of live performance.

Skills and Capabilities:

  • Exploration and experimentation during devised work
  • Interpretation of others’ performances and of ideas
  • Knowledge and understanding of Drama techniques, elements and conventions
  • Ability to respond to performances critically
  • Integrating of thinking, moving and feeling
  • Creative and critical thinking
  • Problem solving Understanding the world of the play and of the playwright
  • Ask questions and challenge other perceptions through devising
  • Take risks and experiment to develop authentic self expression
  • Know that to work as an ensemble is a creative collaborative challenge
  • Time management to meet deadlines
  • Make plans, manage tasks and set high standards
  • Active involvement in our performing arts community
  • Ability to contribute appropriately as a group member.

Cross Curriculum Links:

Performing Arts Technology

Possibly Leads to:

  • Continued study at Tertiary Institutions in Theatre Arts, Performing Arts studies and Theatre and Film studies
  • Opportunities to be involved in the Performing Arts community (in New Zealand and world wide)
  • Teaching in a range of contexts
  • Careers in the theatre/film/television/ entertainment industry
  • Acting
  • Directing
  • Management Other areas such as; Law, Education, History and other Humanities subjects.

Assessment Opportunities:

Level 3 Drama offers 14 credits which include up to 9 reading credits and 4 writing credits.

Contact: Dave Mullholland (Head of Arts)

Music

Choose Music! – Unleash Your Inner Musician!

Dive into the vibrant world of music, where creativity meets practical learning! Whether you prefer collaborating with friends or working solo, this class offers the perfect blend of making noise, self-expression, and hands-on experience. From playing instruments to composing your own tunes, music class lets you explore your passions and develop new skills. Join us and discover the joy of making music while growing both individually and as a team!

Music - NCEA Level 1

Programme Description : This course is designed to help students improve their overall musicianship, develop confidence with performing, composition skills and understanding music in different contexts. Student’s will be able to use their identity and culture as a basis for their development and direction of learning. Students will be able to achieve credits towards their Level 1 NCEA qualification, develop the skills needed to work within the music industry and gain the skills needed to go into higher education (university) with music studies.

Learning Outcomes/Contexts:

Understanding the Arts in Context - Students will learn to consider and reflect on the influence of music in their own music making and in their lives. They will also begin to understand how to apply their understanding of the expressive qualities of music from a range of contexts to influence their own music practices.

Developing Practical Knowledge - Students will develop the skills to apply knowledge of expressive features, stylistic conventions and technologies through an integration of aural perception and practical and theoretical skills and describe how they are used in music.

Developing Ideas - Students will learn to create, structure, refine, and represent compositions and musical arrangements, using technical and musical skills and technologies to express imaginative thinking and personal understandings. Students will also learn to reflect on and evaluate composition processes and presentation conventions.

Communicating and Interpreting - Students will develop the skills to prepare, rehearse, present performances of music individually and collaboratively, using a range of performance skills and techniques.

Skills and Capabilities:

Students will develop instrumental, compositional, band and aural/theory skills. There is a focus on practical work and performance skills.

Cross Curriculum Links:

English, Te Reo Māori, Social Studies.

Possibly leads to:

Further studies or a wide range of opportunities in the field of music and the entertainment industry.

Assessment Opportunities:

There will be 15 credits on offer on this course. Music is an approved subject for University Entrance.

Music - NCEA Level 2

Programme Description : This course focuses on further development of performance, composition, band and introduces instrumentation (digital notation skills). Students will be encouraged to challenge and take responsibility for themselves in the pursuit of achievement and personal growth through the opportunities that are offered in this course

Learning Outcomes/Contexts:

Understanding the Arts in Context - Students will learn to consider and reflect on the influence of music in their own music making and in their lives. They will also begin to understand how to apply their understanding of the expressive qualities of music from a range of contexts to influence their own music practices.

Developing Practical Knowledge - Students will develop the skills to apply knowledge of expressive features, stylistic conventions and technologies through an integration of aural perception and practical and theoretical skills and describe and analyse how they are used in music.

Developing Ideas - Students will learn to create, structure, refine, and represent compositions and musical arrangements, using technical and musical skills and technologies to express imaginative thinking and personal understandings. Students will also learn to reflect on and evaluate composition processes and presentation conventions.

Communicating and Interpreting - Students will develop the skills to prepare, rehearse, interpret, and present performances of music individually and collaboratively, that demonstrate interpretive understandings.

Skills and Capabilities:

Students will develop instrumental, compositional, notation, recording and band skills. There is a focus on practical work and performance skills.

Cross Curriculum Links:

English, Te Reo Māori, Social Studies.

Possibly leads to:

Further studies or a wide range of opportunities in the field of music and the entertainment industry.

Assessment Opportunities:

Assessments are done as practical internal assessments. There is a possibility to pick up an extra research based assessment. There will be 16 credits on offer on this course. music is an approved subject for University Entrance.

Music - NCEA Level 3

Programme Description : This course focuses on developing performance, composition, group performance, instrumentation, and arrangement. Students will be encouraged to challenge and take responsibility for themselves in the pursuit of achievement and personal growth through the opportunities that are offered in this course.

Learning Outcomes/Contexts:

Understanding the Arts in Context - Students will learn to consider and reflect on the influence of music in their own music making and in their lives. They will also begin to understand how to apply their understanding of the expressive qualities of music from a range of contexts to influence their own music practices.

Developing Practical Knowledge - Students will develop the skills to analyse, apply and evaluate significant expressive features and stylistic conventions and technologies in a range of music using aural perception and practical and theoretical skills.

Developing Ideas - Students will learn to create, structure, refine, and represent compositions and musical arrangements, using secure technical and musical skills and technologies to express imaginative thinking and personal understandings. Students will also learn to reflect on and evaluate composition processes and presentation conventions.

Communicating and Interpreting - Students will develop the skills to prepare, rehearse, interpret, and present performances of music individually and collaboratively, that demonstrate interpretive understandings.

Skills and Capabilities:

Students will develop the skills to plan, prepare, rehearse, interpret, record, evaluate, and refine performances of music, individually and collaboratively, demonstrating interpretive understandings.

Cross Curriculum Links:

English, Te Reo Māori, Social Studies.

Possibly leads to:

Further studies or a wide range of opportunities in the field of music and the entertainment industry.

Assessment Opportunities:

There are 16 credits on offer for this course. There is a possibility to pick up an additional research assessment which offers 6 Literacy credits for reading. Music is an approved subject for University Entrance.

Contact: Dave Mullholland (Head of Arts)

Visual Arts

Unleash your creativity and discover your voice through Visual Arts. This hands-on, dynamic subject invites you to explore a wide range of media, including painting, sculpture, photography, design, and mixed media. You’ll develop practical skills, critical thinking, and an understanding of both historical and contemporary art practices locally and globally.

Visual arts empowers you to tell stories, solve problems visually, and express unique ideas. You’ll gain confidence using traditional and digital tools while building a strong visual language that supports creative exploration and communication.

This course also opens doors to exciting careers in the creative industries, such as game design, photography, UX/UI design, AR/VR development, and environmental or spatial design. Whether you're aiming for a creative career or simply want to grow as a thinker and maker, Visual Arts is an inspiring and future-focused choice.

Visual Arts - NCEA Level 1

Programme Description :

Level 1 Visual Arts supports students to build confidence in practical art-making while developing their creativity and personal ideas. The course introduces a variety of 2D and 3D media including drawing, painting, sculpture, mixed media, printmaking, and collage. Students are encouraged to explore and experiment with different techniques and approaches. Learning is co-constructed where appropriate, allowing students to follow a pathway that aligns with their strengths and interests.

This course is ideal for students who enjoy:

  • Drawing, painting, and making sculptural or mixed media artworks
  • Expressing ideas visually
  • Experimenting with different art materials and techniques
  • Building a folio of work over time

Learning Outcomes/Contexts:

Students will complete:

One or two internal achievement standards, selected collaboratively as a class

One external achievement standard (AS91017, 1.4), presented as a single A1 folio panel

For example:

Some students’ artworks from the two internal achievement standards is also attached to the folio.

Skills and Capabilities:

In L1 Visual Arts students develop their drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, mixed media, stencil making, collage, compositional and Photoshop skills.

L1 Visual Arts develops visual literacy, critical and creative thinking.

NOTE: You are most welcome to visit the Art room to view examples of L1 Visual Arts students artworks for the internal and external achievement standards.

Cross Curriculum Links:

Business Studies, English, History, Te Reo Maori, Photography, PAT, Design and DVC

Prepares students for:

Level 2 and 3 Painting, Photography and Design and a wide range of opportunities in tertiary education and the creative industries e.g. architecture, graphic and interior design, photography, film, textile, spatial and landscape design, Maori and Pacifica arts, visual communication.

Assessment Format:

The two internal achievement standards are collated into A3 size workbooks. The folio is presented on two A1 size panels.

Design - NCEA Level 2

Programme Description :

This Level 2 Design course enhances students’ skills in visual communication through graphic and digital design. Students develop their ability to create purposeful compositions, solve design problems, and communicate ideas through visual language. This course requires students to work on a digital platform.

Course Objectives:

  • Explore creativity and express conceptual ideas through design.
  • Develop an understanding of visual communication and design principles.
  • Investigate and master design processes and software tools.

Learning Outcomes/Contexts

Students will:

  • Develop design skills using hand drawing, digital painting, and Adobe tools (Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign)
  • Respond to briefs by researching, developing ideas, and refining outcomes.
  • Use design conventions to create promotional materials, illustrations, and layout-based compositions.
  • Explore themes and artists relevant to their design ideas
  • Present internal assessments in an A3 workbook and external work on a two-panel folio.

Skills and Capabilities:

  • Visual communication and layout design.
  • Illustration techniques and creative ideation
  • Design research and brief response
  • Adobe Creative Suite: Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign.
  • Critical thinking and creative problem-solving

Encouraged Practices:

  • Explore and refine original design concepts
  • Conduct image research and apply visual sequencing
  • Combine hand-drawn and digital elements
  • Work independently on self-directed projects

Career Pathways:

Graphic design, UX/UI design, game design, product design, motion graphics, advertising, media, illustration, publishing, environmental design, fashion, and architecture.

Preparation for Future Studies:

  • Level 3 Practical Art - Design
  • Tertiary courses in Communication Design, Creative Technology, Visual Arts, Architecture, Game Design, and Media Arts

Assessment Format:

  • One internal achievement standard (A3 workbook).
  • External folio presented on two A1 panels
Design - NCEA Level 3

Programme Description:

This Level 3 Design course focuses on refining students’ abilities in visual communication and advanced design practice. Students engage with real-world briefs to communicate conceptual ideas visually and persuasively through a range of design processes and technologies. This course requires students to work on a digital platform.

Course Objectives:

  • Develop advanced skills in digital design.
  • Express conceptual ideas visually through thoughtful and innovative design.
  • Work independently to complete client-style briefs with clarity and creativity.

Learning Outcomes/Contexts:

Students will:

  • Create image banks and undertake targeted research to respond to design briefs.
  • Develop concepts and refine ideas using Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign.
  • Work independently on projects that align with self-directed themes and selected artist models.
  • Respond to multiple briefs and integrate outcomes into a resolved three-panel folio.
  • Present internal work in A3 workbooks and external work on three A1 folio panels.

Skills and Capabilities:

  • Graphic design and layout
  • Illustration and visual ideation
  • Branding and promotional material design
  • Use of Adobe Creative Suite for professional outcomes
  • Conceptual and critical thinking in visual problem-solving

Encouraged Practices:

  • Develop a personal and professional design voice
  • Combine digital and traditional media for impactful communication
  • Sequence design outcomes for clear visual narratives.
  • Explore typography, composition, and identity systems.

Career Pathways:

Graphic design, UX/UI design, product and environmental design, advertising, publishing, motion graphics, digital media, and communication design.

Preparation for Future Studies:

  • Tertiary pathways in Visual Communication Design, Architecture, Fine Arts, Creative Technologies, or Media Arts
  • Supports UE Literacy and is Scholarship eligible

Assessment Format:

  • Choice of: internal only, external folio only (14 credits), or a combination
Photography - NCEA Level 2

Programme Description :

This Level 2 Photography course focuses on developing students’ skills in creative photography and image-making. Students explore photographic conventions, conceptual development, and storytelling through the lens

Course Objectives:

  • Develop visual storytelling and photographic composition skills
  • Explore conceptual ideas through photography
  • Master DSLR manual camera use and post-production techniques.

Learning Outcomes/Contexts

    Students will:

    • Use digital SLR cameras on manual settings to create controlled effects
    • Explore lighting techniques, including studio lighting and natural light
    • Process and enhance images using Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom
    • Investigate themes and artists that inform their photographic practice
    • Produce internal work in A3 workbooks and present a two-panel external folio

    Skills and Capabilities:

    • Digital and film photography
    • Studio and location lighting techniques
    • Image editing and compositing
    • Concept development and sequencing
    • Visual literacy and critical analysis

    Encouraged Practices:

    • Explore self-directed concepts through lens-based work
    • Plan and conduct photoshoots
    • Experiment with mixed media, collage, and presentation formats
    • Analyse and apply influences from contemporary photographers

    Career Pathways:

    Photography, film, media, fashion photography, journalism, advertising, curation, fine arts, education, visual content creation, and creative industries.

    Preparation for Future Studies:

    • Level 3 Practical Art - Photography
    • Tertiary study in Media Arts, Photography, Visual Arts, Film, Fine Arts, Māori and Pacific Arts

    Assessment Format:

    • One internal achievement standard (A3 workbook)
    • One External folio presented on two A1 panels
Photography - NCEA Level 3

Programme Description:

This Level 3 Photography course develops high-level photography skills, encouraging students to create conceptually rich, technically sound, and visually engaging photographic work. Emphasis is placed on storytelling, personal voice, and professional presentation.

Course Objectives:

  • Develop advanced photography skills using digital SLR cameras and editing tools..
  • Explore personal concepts through lens-based practices.
  • Work independently to produce a photographic body of work that communicates meaning clearly and creatively.

Learning Outcomes/Contexts:

Students will:

  • Use DSLR cameras on manual settings to explore lighting, depth, and shutter techniques.
  • Enhance and manipulate imagery using Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom.
  • Explore mixed media, sequencing, and composition in a photographic context.
  • Choose personal themes and artist models to inform self-directed photo essays.
  • Present internal standards in A3 format and complete a resolved three-panel external folio.

Skills and Capabilities:

  • Studio and location photography
  • Image editing, retouching, and compositing
  • Narrative and sequencing in photographic essays
  • Visual analysis and critical thinking
  • Independent planning, production, and presentation of photographic work

Encouraged Practices:

  • Conceptual development through image-making
  • Self-directed photoshoots
  • Experimentation with mixed media, collage, and digital manipulation
  • Analytical reflection on personal and external influences

Career Pathways:

Professional photography, film, media, advertising, content creation, curation, fashion photography, fine arts, journalism, and visual storytelling.

Preparation for Future Studies:

  • Tertiary study in Photography, Media Arts, Visual Arts, Film, Māori and Pacific Arts, or Fine Arts
  • Supports UE Literacy and is Scholarship eligible

Assessment Format:

  • Choice of: internal only, external folio only (14 credits), or a combination
Practical Art: Painting - NCEA Level 2

Programme Description:

This course improves students’ painting and compositional skills and their ability to develop conceptual ideas and make connections.

The L2 Painting course is for students who want to:

  • explore their creativity
  • express their own conceptual ideas in a visual way
  • investigate techniques with media and composition.

Learning Outcomes/Contexts:

All L2 Painting students work on the individual programme of their choice.

Students start the year working on two internal achievement standards at the same time. This is collated into one body of work. The 3 or 4 paintings completed for the internals go on the folio and students then work on their folio for the external, for the rest of the year.

Skills and Capabilities:

Students develop their drawing and painting skills, use of Adobe Photoshop as a drawing tool, photography, mixed media, collage and printmaking skills.

Students choose their own theme, subject matter and artist model influences - to base their art works on.

They are encouraged to:

  • Explore their own conceptual ideas
  • Research imagery
  • Sequence work
  • Experiment with techniques
  • Produce original images/artworks

L2 Painting students develop their art skills, visual literacy and critical and creative thinking.

NOTE: You are most welcome to visit the Art room to view examples of L2 Painting students’ artworks for the internal and external achievement standards.

Cross Curriculum Links:

Business Studies, English, History, Te Reo Maori, Photography, Design, DVC, Performing Arts Technology.

Prepares students for: Level 3 Practical Art - Painting

Tertiary Creative Technology, Design, Fine Arts, Visual Arts, Architecture, Animation, Illustration, Maori and Pacifica Arts and Media Arts courses and can lead to work in film, theatre, design, advertising, curation, media, education, the art world, fashion, architecture etc. and a lifelong love of painting.

Assessment Opportunities:

The two internal achievement standards are collated into A3 size workbooks. The folio is presented on two A1 size panels.

Practical Art: Painting - NCEA Level 3

Programme Description:

This course further improves students’ painting and compositional skills and their ability to develop conceptual ideas and make connections. The L3 Painting course is an approved subject for University Entrance.

The L3 Painting course is for students who want to:

  • explore their creativity
  • express their own conceptual ideas in a visual way
  • investigate techniques with media and composition.

Learning Outcomes/Contexts:

All L3 Painting students work on the individual programme of their choice.

Internal achievement standard artworks are collated into A3 page workbooks and external achievement standard artworks are mounted on one side of a three panel folio.

Skills and Capabilities:

Students develop their drawing and painting skills, use of Adobe Photoshop as a drawing tool, photography, mixed media, collage and printmaking skills.

Students choose their own theme, subject matter and artist model influences - to base their art works on.

They are encouraged to:

  • Explore their own conceptual ideas
  • Research imagery
  • Sequence work
  • Experiment with techniques
  • Produce original images/artworks

L3 Painting students develop their art skills, visual literacy and critical and creative thinking.

NOTE: You are most welcome to visit the Art room to view examples of L3 Painting students’ artworks for the internal and external achievement standards.

Cross Curriculum Links:

Business Studies, English, History, Te Reo Maori, Photography, Design, DVC, Performing Arts Technology.

Prepares students for:

Tertiary Creative Technology, Design, Fine Arts, Visual Arts, Architecture, Animation, Illustration, Maori and Pacifica Arts and Media Arts courses and can lead to work in film, theatre, design, advertising, curation, media, education, the art world, fashion, architecture etc. and a lifelong love of painting.

Assessment Opportunities:

Students can choose a L3 Painting course consisting of:

  • Only internal achievement standards
  • Only the external Painting folio (14 credits- external are all that is required for UE)
  • The external Painting folio and scholarship
  • A combination of internal and the external achievement standards.
Contact: Laura Turner (Visual Art Teacher)

MBAS HOUSE POINTS

Buffalo 2404

69/100

Tainui 1951

56/100

Mercury 2344

67/100

Matahaorua 1564

45/100