We are set to launch four new courses for our Year 12 girls in 2024, all of which will be available as part of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma and are being offered at the College for the first time.

The courses are as follows:

Language and Culture: This new course is being piloted by the IB, and we are the only school in New Zealand selected to run it over the next two years. Drawing on linguistics and anthropology, the course places a strong emphasis on indigenous languages. Students will critically examine the complex relationship between language, culture, society, and identity as they develop into global citizens.

Psychology: In this course, girls will gain an understanding of the biological, sociological, and cognitive factors that influence mental processes and behaviors. They will also become aware of how psychological research can address real-world problems and promote positive change.

Sports, Exercise, and Health Sciences: This course will introduce students to areas such as anatomy, exercise physiology, energy systems, and movement analysis, both in the laboratory and on the field. It will support the considerable number of SMC girls who proceed to study Health Sciences at university.

Film Studies: In this course, girls will explore various contexts of film and make connections between films, filmmakers, and filmmaking techniques. They will learn to interpret films thoughtfully and become adept creators of film.

The additional courses are part of our continued efforts to offer our girls the widest possible choice of subjects, ensuring that as many doors as possible remain open to them as they move into the next phase of their education, as well as a balanced education that meets their specific needs.

The IB's mission to develop inquiring, knowledgeable, and caring young people who help create a better and more peaceful world aligns with our own ambition to create empathetic, confident, and connected global citizens, who value personal excellence and strive to make a positive difference.