Newlands Intermediate offers a broad but balanced programme of teaching and learning. We maintain a focus on the core learning areas of literacy, maths, science and social sciences, integrated whenever possible through authentic learning contexts.

Student Directed Learning – students and teachers learning together in authentic contexts, developing the skills of self-directed learning and inquiry.

Each term the direction and context for our learning is set by “The Big Idea”.

Term 1 Ko Wai Matou? – Who are we and where do we come from?

Term 2 Discoveries and Inventions – A term of science exploration

Term 3 The World at our Doorstep – International events, Development Education, great literature, philosophy or a social science focus.

Term 4 Hopes, Dreams and Aspirations – our future selves, careers, leadership.

Every day there are core teaching and learning times for literacy and maths – the cornerstones of our curriculum. These are taught by homeroom teachers with the support of teacher aides/kaiawhina where needed.

Our afternoon programme offers opportunities to explore the wider curriculum like learning a second language, playing an instrument, exploring drama, honing specific digital skills, developing science capabilities or pursuing student directed learning.

Every student has the opportunity to extend their learning in our specialist curriculum. This currently includes Food Technology, Textiles, Visual Art, Hard Materials, Digital Technologies, Creative Arts and Te Reo Māori. All students engage with these curriculum areas across the year. The emphasis in these curriculum areas is on developing the key competencies of thinking, using language, symbols and texts, managing self, relating to others and participating and contributing.

Each day there are opportunities for physical activity which can include, P.E. skill building, fitness and school-wide sports and games. Early adolescents need to be active.

Early each year all students are encouraged to set their learning goals in every area of the curriculum. Not only do students identify the steps to their success but they are encouraged to identify who and what can help them achieve these goals and what evidence will show success or progress. We use a digital platform, Seesaw, to show progress and achievements.

We offer extension opportunities to students in maths, English, science, Te Reo Māori, digital technologies and the creative arts.

In terms 2 and 3 science extension students have the opportunity to plan, test and record science investigations for the annual NIWA Science Fair.

Students who need extra support with their learning are part of enrichment groups in reading, writing, maths and English language learning. We are lucky to have a Diverse Learners Support Lead Teacher and a Learning Support Coordinator who support our team of teacher aides, our teachers, parents and students.