Technology & Hard Materials

In a thrilling culmination of coding talent, schools from all corners of New Zealand are preparing to compete in the eagerly anticipated National Programming Competition scheduled for August 19th. This annual event showcases the programming prowess of students and provides a platform for young coders to exhibit their skills on a national stage.

This year, Ellesmere College was represented by Alex, a Year 13 student, and Charlie, a Year 12 student. Their expertise and dedication was sure to make them formidable competitors.

The journey to the National Programming Competition began earlier in the year when we participated in the Canterbury Coding Competition. The school's involvement included not just one but two teams, each demonstrating their aptitude for coding and problem-solving. This initial experience laid the foundation for the upcoming event, as students honed their skills and learned from their previous challenges.

The National Programming Competition was a thrilling showcase of talent, creativity, and innovation. Students like Alex and Charlie are emblematic of the bright future that lies ahead for New Zealand's tech industry. As the event drew near, excitement built, and participants and spectators alike were eagerly anticipating the showdown of coding prowess that was set to unfold.

"It's great to reintroduce textiles into the curriculum". 

Year 7 and 8 have started with producing a range of materials that they can use to design and make a product. We have learnt dying, wet felting, block printing and needle felting. Currently students are completing their design work and we have some amazing bags, toys, pencil case and phone case designs. In future lessons students will learn how to use the sewing machines and the over-lockers along with hand sewing skills. We look forward to giving seniors the opportunity to develop their skills in textile next year if they wish to.