Cultural Studies

Mr A Pesefea —

The following course is available for study in 2024

Through the context of Kapa Haka and Pasifika Performing Arts, there is an avenue to explore cultural identity, belonging, whānau and self-worth. This course is set out to provide our students with the opportunity to learn, investigate and participate in pasifika dance, kapa haka and cultural studies. Students will develop an understanding of the origins and importance of traditional dance through practice and performance as well as choreographing dance sequences related to given topics. Students will showcase their skill of dance in large performing groups or smaller intimate groups for assessment, as well as displaying their knowledge of the items performed. This course will only run subject to staffing and timetable constraints.

11 Cultural Studies: 11CSt Full Year

Course Description: This course will run in collaboration with the Year 12 and Year 13 Cultural Studies courses, with the aim to enhance strong tuakana-teina relationships. Students will have the opportunity to learn performance skills in both Pasifika dance and Kapa Haka, and develop a basic understanding of the background and meaning behind these performances. Students in this course will be expected to perform at key cultural/community events.

Recommended Entry Criteria: An interest in Pacific dance and/or Kapa Haka. Previous experience in either of these is recommended

Qualifications to be gained: Level 1 Achievement Standard credits

Next step: 12 Cultural Studies

Contact Person: Mr Pesefea


12 Cultural Studies: 12CSt Full Year

Course Description: This course will run in collaboration with the Year 11 and Year 13 Cultural Studies courses, with the aim to enhance strong tuakana-teina relationships. Students will have the opportunity to learn performance skills in both Pasifika dance and Kapa Haka, and develop a more in depth understanding of the background and meaning behind these performances. Students in this course will be expected to perform at key cultural/community events.

Recommended Entry Criteria: An interest in Pacific dance and/or Kapa Haka. Previous experience in either of these is recommended

Qualifications to be gained: Level 2 Achievement Standard credits

UE Literacy: No

Next step: 13 Cultural Studies

Contact Person: Mr Pesefea


13 Cultural Studies: 13CSt Full Year

Course Description: This course will run in collaboration with the Year 11 and Year 12 Cultural Studies courses, with the aim to enhance strong tuakana-teina relationships. Students will have the opportunity to work on their leadership skills, further develop their performance skills in both Pasifika dance and Kapa Haka, and assist in the choreography of performances. Students in this course will be expected to perform at key cultural/community events.

Recommended Entry Criteria: Previous experience in Polyfest and/or Kapa Haka is strongly recommended

UE Literacy: 4 Writing credits

UE Approved: Yes

Qualifications to be gained: Level 3 Achievement Standard credits.

Contact Person: Mr Pesefea