Academic

A sample of opportunities Heretaunga Intermediate offers which challenge students both inside and outside the class include:

ICT
Heretaunga Intermediate runs a wireless network enabling students to use
the computers within the class programme, removing the need to move to a timetabled computer room. Each room other than the Digital Classrooms has at least 5 desktop computers to provide for greater access when required. This ready access to computing technology makes it possible for ICT to be instantly used as a tool to enhance the learning in the class.

 

CURRICULUM
Education for Sustainability Students are offered a variety of practical activities that
explore the concept of sustainability. They are encouraged to act locally by planting class gardens, using worm farms and compost to naturally reduce waste. They learn how reducing, reusing and recycling waste can help lessen the impact of their global footprint. Students begin to understand the natural and human impact on climate change and are encouraged to look to the future to contribute to the well being of New Zealand.

 

PHOTOGRAPHY LABORATORY
The school has its own photography lab. Students are able to develop their own negatives, learn how to do close ups and double exposures, and learn about the chemical processes that the photographs go through in a professional photographic laboratory.

 

FOOD TECHNOLOGY
We have a spacious and well equipped Food Technology room which is well used by students. Students learn how to cook nutritious meals using many different ingredients. They are taught about the economics of buying and selling baked goods, and the art of preserving. Students are taught the importance of hygiene and this is maintained to a high standard.

 

MATERIALS TECHNOLOGY
The Technology department is very well equipped to cover the two main thrusts of the programme. Firstly, the more traditional aspects of technology where, for example, we cover silversmithing, plastics, and wood based projects.

Secondly, we are expanding out CAD/CAM (Computer Aided Design/Computer Aided Manufacturing) programme, introducing impact printing, sublimation, and chroma-blast work.

Above all, however, safety is our main subject component.

 

SCIENCE
Students learn about the scientific process and work independently to find solutions to problems. In addition to home class science lessons, students will work in the school science lab. Through experimental work they explore separating and combining solids and liquids, reactions and appropriate recording techniques. They also learn how to use a microscope and the appropriate handling of chemicals, investigating acids and alkalis. Fair testing is also a focus of the Science programme. An important scientific activity in the school is the biennial whole school Science Fair.

 

HERETAUNGA INTERMEDIATE OFFERS:

 

CORE:
• English • P.E./Health/Sport • Social Sciences • Reading (Accelerate/Remedial)
• Science • Mathematics (Accelerate/Remedial)

 

TECHNOLOGY / TECHNO-SKILLS:
• Materials technology • Food technology • Media studies • Electronics
• Science/Science Fair • Technology challenge • Art • Music • ICT • CAD/CAM

 

ACADEMIC EXTENSION / ENRICHMENT:
• Oral Reading • Productions • Debating • Science Badges
• Future Problem Solving • Literature Quiz • ICAS Exams