At St Paul’s, we take pride in ensuring that our students have an enriching experience. Our commitment to maintaining small class sizes allows our educators to cultivate strong, meaningful connections with each student ensuring delivery of tailored educational programmes that align with individual academic needs.
Our teachers employ a diverse range of teaching methods, accommodating various learning styles, and seamlessly integrating technology into both the learning process and assessment methods.
Junior school (Years 9-10)
Before starting at St Paul’s, Year 8 students are tested to determine their academic level and placed in classes accordingly. This practise allows teachers to focus on individual needs and support each student in achieving their best.
Students follow a compulsory core of English, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Physical Education, Health, Religious Studies, and Te Reo. They also rotate through technology and arts options.
Technology includes Digital, Materials, and Design and Visual Communication, while the arts encompass Music, Drama, and Art.
All Year 9 students take either a foreign language or a literacy and numeracy course. This course allocation is decided during Term 1 Orientation. In addition, students choose two Master Class subjects for half a year. Some examples of these classes are: Sculpture, Video Motion Graphics, Public Speaking, Sustainable Cities, Psycho Babble and Architectural Design.
At Year 10, students follow a core of English, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Physical Education, Health and Religion and three additional options. This study is in conjunction with their time at Tihoi.
Senior School (Years 11-13)
Year 11 | St Paul’s Diploma
During the Year 11 programme, students enrol in the St Paul’s Diploma that reflects the students' key learning outcomes and active involvement in various of school life, academia, co-curricular, special character, service, and maatauranga Maaori.
Year 12 and 13
In Years 12 and 13, students at St Paul’s pursue a rigorous curriculum designed to prepare them for further study and beyond. In Year 12, students take English and four or five additional subjects, with options for NCEA Level 2 or Cambridge International Advanced Subsidiary (AS) qualifications in Mathematics and English. They may also have the opportunity to sit Scholarship Examinations.
In Year 13, students typically take five subjects at NCEA Level 3, further challenging their academic abilities. The chance to sit Scholarship Examinations is also available to recognise top performers in various subjects. This curriculum ensures students are well-prepared for their future pathways, whether in tertiary study or the workforce.
Academic Awards
Year 11 students who achieve more than 155 points (from 192 available points) receive an academic honours badge awarded at a special assembly.
Year 12 students who achieve a grade point average of 75% or more in four subjects receive a Scholars’ Tie at a special assembly.
Writer’s Toolbox
St Paul’s uses an online web-based essay writing programme called Writer’s Toolbox in both the junior and senior school. Click here for more information.
Junior scholarship programme
The junior scholarship programme is for Year 9 students who have shown exceptional academic promise. The programme looks to enhance certain key areas that are deemed essential for scholarship acceptance and top academic success in the senior school. The programme develops a holistic range of skills such as group work, research, self-awareness, problem-solving and leadership.
