Academics at EOHS
Te matauranga o waho
At East Otago High School students in the junior school, Years 7-8, experience all of the Essential Learning Areas including the core subjects of English, Mathematics, Science and Social Studies. This prepares them for life in the senior school where they will have the opportunity to specialise, preparing them for tertiary education or a place in the workforce.
In Years 9 – 10, students have a two-semester programme. Students get to choose the topics they are going to study, rather than a subject. We have seen a huge increase in motivation in our students, since this programme was introduced.
In the Senior School, Years 11 – 13, a variety of choices are available and guidance will be provided by the school’s careers team and at the senior option nights. Students are asked to plan their courses of study with care so that students at East Otago High School leave as many doors as possible open for their futures.
East Otago High School prides itself on its wide range of subjects and is always happy to discuss individual pathways for students
Find out more information about each department below.
In English, we promote the basics of reading, writing and speaking as we strive to turn our students into confident communicators.
Year 7-8
In Year 7 and 8, we study stories and students are encouraged to develop a love of reading through the East Otago High School Reading Challenge as well as building up their writing skills through using programmes such as The Writer’s Toolbox. Students also create speeches to develop their communication skills and many students enter the annual Speech Competition.
Year 9-10
Over a two year cycle we run eight different English options for our composite classes of Year 9/10 students covering topics such as War Poetry, Thrillers, Identity and Survival. Students study a range of texts to develop their English and Communication skills and are encouraged to read for pleasure and build up their writing skills. The Year 10 students also prepare for the recently introduced literacy co-requisite tests which are taken in May and August as part of the preparations for NCEA.
Senior students study NCEA courses with a particular emphasis on gaining University Entrance literacy in Year 12 and those Year 13 students who study English at Level 3 focus on gaining 14 credits or more for tertiary study.
The Mathematics Department offers inspiring, comprehensive, dynamic, practical courses catering for the individual needs of all students. The Year 7–10 courses cover Number, Algebra, Measurement, Geometry, Statistics and Probability, giving the students a wide grounding in all topics. In Years 9-10 students are given options of which Maths topics they would like to learn about, such as maths in the future, engineering, and maths computers and logic. Check out the Junior Curriculum booklet for more details.
In Year 11 all students, in consultation with parents and teachers, opt into a course in mathematics according to their ability level – we offer two different courses: a foundation course that is designed to give students practical and relevant mathematical skills for everyday use at home or in the workplace and the aim is to pass the Numeracy NCEA pre-requisites and a higher level course involving algebra and problem solving for those intending to continue Maths into Year 12.
For Year 12 and Year 13, the courses are set up to further extend mathematical minds leading towards tertiary study and career pathways.
Right throughout the school the student’s progress is tracked and specific needs are identified. Support is offered in several ways: student support personnel, differentiated learning tasks, computer programs, and tutorials if required. The department encourages students to engage and progress to the best of their abilities.
Students are encouraged to develop motor skills through movement, acquire knowledge and understanding about movement and develop positive attitudes towards physical activity.
Students will be supported to develop understandings, skills and attitudes that enhance their interactions and relationships with other people.
Finally, students will be encouraged to create healthy communities and environments by taking responsible and critical action.
Social Studies is integrated throughout all levels of our school, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the world around them.
Years 7-8
Social Studies is taught within homeroom classes, following an odd/even year structure. Students explore a variety of topics, including Aotearoa New Zealand’s history, natural disasters, and consumer rights. The curriculum is designed to help students develop a deeper understanding of current events and their broader context.
Years 9-10
At this stage, Social Studies is delivered by specialist teachers through engaging courses. The odd/even year structure continues, with topics ranging from Mythbusters and Making a Difference to skills for living and exploring geological features in the Hills to Sea course. These courses emphasise preparation for NCEA, equipping students with essential skills for their academic progression.
History
History is available at all NCEA levels (Years 11-13). The curriculum includes a range of skills, from essay writing and source interpretation to in-depth historical research. Students study various subjects, gaining a profound understanding and appreciation of historical events and their relevance to contemporary issues. They also explore geological and natural phenomena on a global scale.
Business Studies
Introduced in 2014, this Year 11 subject combines business studies and economics achievement standards. We are also developing a Young Enterprise group as part of this course.
Geography
Offered at all NCEA levels, Geography is a popular subject at EOHS. Students engage in skills such as mapping, graphing, and geographic research. Topics include Extreme Natural Hazards, Population Studies, and Resource Sustainability in our local area. With 25 credits available, this course has a strong track record, including two scholarships awarded.
Economics
Currently available through Correspondence School and Video Conferencing classes.
The Technology Department at East Otago High school consists of a multi-material based workshop with facilities for fabricating Wood, Metals and Plastics. Other facilities include an attached Design and visual communications room and a Food & Fabrics room. All facilities are well equipped for Technology at all levels.
At Year 7 and 8 all students will be involved in a 13 week module for Hard Materials, Information Technology and Food Technology via Home Economics. There is also an option for Fabrics Technology to be a part of this module.
For Years 9 and 10 students are able to choose Materials Technology and a Foods based Technology for one or two semesters throughout the year. These will centre around a specific context which student activities will be based around. Digital Technology is an option for Semester Two.
In Year 11, 12 and 13 students can choose to study Home Economics and/or Bcats to gain Level 2 and 3 achievement standards.
The Arts are a powerful form of expression that recognise the value of and contribute to the unique bi-cultural multicultural character of New Zealand, enriching the lives of all New Zealanders.
Our Arts curriculum encompasses all 4 disciplines. Music, Visual Art, Dance, and Drama.
Music
Core Music is available to all students from Year 7 to Year 13, offering comprehensive opportunities for instrumental learning through our Instrumental Music program.
In Years 7 and 8, students begin their musical journey with foundational instruction in instruments such as ukulele and keyboards. They explore composition by creating diverse soundscapes and original musical pieces with professional applications. Additionally, students delve into orchestral instruments and the role of music in film.
Our Year 9 and 10 courses are semester-based, designed to scaffold students in essential musical skills necessary for success in NCEA. Courses include School Of Rock for group performances, East Otago Idol for solo performances, Beats and Pieces for original song creation, and Life’s A Stage for those interested in musical productions.
In NCEA Music, students deepen their understanding of music theory, develop solo and ensemble performance skills, and participate in live performances throughout the year. Emphasis is placed on analysing music to discern elements contributing to successful compositions, preparing students to create their own original works. Our NCEA program provides real-world musical experiences, equipping students for careers in music or professions utilizing musical expertise.
All courses and resources are available for students and families to access remotely at the official Music department website at eohsmusic.weebly.com. Throughout the year, there are opportunities for students to attend professional visiting performances.
Visual Art
At Year 7 and 8 all students will be involved in a 13 week module for Art. Students will cover a range of themes from Still life through to Portraiture over the two year cycle. Students will also have an opportunity to work with air dried clay, soft pastels ,crayon and dye , printmaking, collage, charcoal and paint, as well as exploring how different cultures express their creativity.
For Year 9 and 10, students are able to choose Visual Arts for one or two semesters throughout the year. Each semester will centre around specific themes for example painting school murals and/ or development of skills and knowledge in different mediums and genres from photography using cell phones and school cameras through to painting, collage ,mixed media, clay and printmaking.
In Year 11, 12 and 13 students can choose to study Visual Art and gain Level 2 and 3 achievement standards as well as producing a folio of their work.
Students will also have opportunities to enter Art competitions and potentially have their work displayed around the school, in the community and featured in the school newsletter, school magazine and our facebook page .
Extra Curricular Arts opportunities
Other activities throughout the school week contribute to the life of the school and include:
Cultural Extravaganza
This encompasses all disciplines of the Arts curriculum.
Choir
This is held during an afternoon form-time and is available to all students who enjoy singing. Students gain the opportunity to perform at various events throughout the year, including events both within the school and out in the wider community.
Instrumental Music Lessons
Students have the opportunity to learn a wide range of instruments. Instruments include flute, saxophone, violin, double bass, trumpet, guitar, keyboards, and drums. Lessons are held during school time.
Orchestra
The orchestra is currently made up members of the wider East Otago community, and welcomes High School students to learn and play orchestral instruments alongside them. It is held every Monday in the Music Room.
Rock Bands
The music department is set up with 2 practise rooms that students can utilise during their intervals, lunches, and free periods. Students have the opportunity to perform at events including the Smokefree Rockquest. Rock Band mentoring is available.
Dance Group
This is held during lunchtime and is available to all students who enjoy dancing.
Musicals and Productions
Students with a passion for performing are given opportunities to prepare and present well-known stage productions/musicals for the wider community. Previous successfully staged musicals include Footloose and Beauty & The Beast.
Year 7 and 8 Science
The Year 7 and 8 Science programme focuses on the Nature of Science and introduces learners to scientific concepts and skills that allow them to describe and explain everyday phenomena. The emphasis is on practical hands-on activities and the development of science literacy skills. As well as local curriculum experiences such as the Flying High Balloon project, Aquvan visit, Orokonui Ecosanctuary field trip, Science Roadshow.
Year 7 and 8 Science is a two year programme (odd and even years).
Odd year topics include Nature of Science, Ecology, Energy and Matter.
Even year topics include Nature of Science, Electricity, Chemical reactions, Predator Free NZ.
Year 9 and 10 Science
Introduces learners to a wide range of scientific concepts and ideas that will help them develop a more in-depth understanding of the world around them. Two modules are offered each semester and these cover aspects of the Material, Living and Physical worlds.
Odd Year modules: Human body systems, Up, Up and Away (Flight), Clean and Green, Who dunnit (Forensics).
Even Year modules: Car Science, Kitchen Science, Meet the elements, Our world.
Year 11 Science
The Year 11 Science programme aim is for learners to develop a greater understanding of a range of science concepts and to further develop their ability to make connections between the science taught in class and the world around them. The course includes learning the skills and big ideas that are foundational for NCEA Level 2 Biology, Chemistry and Physics.
Topics include:
Living World: Biology investigations, Life processes, Ecology, Genetics
Material world: chemistry vocabulary, structure and conservation of matter, chemical reactions.
Physical world: scientific method, physic calculations, mechanics and electricity basics.
Year 12 -13 Science
Learners have the opportunity to study NCEA Level 2 and 3 Biology, Chemistry and Physics, leading towards tertiary study and career pathways. (see course selection booklet for more information).
Why learn Te Reo/Māori?
EOHS offers a Te Reo programme from year 7—10.
During Year 7 and 8, students have a Te Reo lesson once a week for two terms. The programme is based on an odd/even year cycle. Even year focus is on Kai (food) and odd year focus is Te Marae (the marae). Alongside the Vocabulary and Tikanga of these topics students build a basic Kupu Hou (word bank) of greetings, simple questions about their families friends and classroom.
There is always close liaison with the local marae.
Year 7 & 8 at East Otago High School (EOHS)
At EOHS, our Year 7 & 8 students are warmly welcomed into the junior school from our contributing schools. They engage with all essential learning areas of the New Zealand Curriculum, including core subjects: English, Mathematics, Science, Physical Education and Health, and Social Sciences.
Our junior programme is designed to meet the developmental needs of early adolescents. We focus on building life skills and learning dispositions to set students up for success throughout secondary school and beyond.
Tools for Learning
Students in Year 7 & 8 benefit from 1:1 access to Chromebooks. They also have access to our computer suite during lunchtimes for recreational or learning purposes.
We provide learning materials tailored to student needs, particularly in literacy and maths, to help every learner grow. Google Classroom is used by all classes to share resources, tasks, and information to support learning both at school and at home.
Students are also able to access the hard materials technology workshop and the art room once or twice a week during breaks, providing space to practise new skills and pursue personal projects.
Specialist Subjects
Throughout the year, students rotate through a range of specialist subjects to explore their interests and develop new skills. These include:
• Home Economics
• Visual Art
• Hard Materials Technology
• Te Reo Māori
• ICT
• Music
These subjects are taught by specialist teachers in purpose-built spaces.
Homework Expectations
We encourage all Year 7 & 8 students to:
• Read for 20 minutes each day. This could include traditional books, comics, audiobooks, graphic novels, or magazines — whatever sparks interest and builds a reading habit.
• Practise basic facts daily. Numeracy fluency supports confidence and success in maths. Our school provides access to the Tackling Tables app, which students can use both at school and home.
We also participate in a weekly current events quiz. Whānau can support this by talking with their child about local, national, and global news — this helps build general knowledge and oral language.
If your child would benefit from additional homework, please contact their classroom teacher.
Library
Our school library is a warm and welcoming space. Students can read, play card and board games, or relax with friends during breaks. A dedicated librarian supports classroom programmes and helps students find great books.
Students may also apply to become student librarians and assist in running the library during lunchtimes.
Cultural and Sporting Opportunities
At EOHS, we encourage all students to get involved in the wide range of cultural and sporting activities available throughout the year. These experiences help students grow their confidence, discover new interests, and build positive connections with others.
Opportunities include:
• Kapa haka
• Choir and orchestra
• Instrumental music lessons
• Team and individual sports
• Lunchtime access to the gym (all year) and school pool (Terms 1 & 4)
• House sport competitions run all year round
Students also have opportunities to showcase their talents through the annual school performance; school musical or “Extravaganza” event.
Our kapa haka group is a valued part of our school culture and regularly performs at school events, the local Hui Ako, and Otago Polyfest.
Education Outside the Classroom (EOTC)
Year 7 & 8 students attend a start-of-year camp in Term 1 to:
• Build friendships
• Develop confidence and leadership
• Strengthen relationships with staff and peers
This camp is supported by fundraising efforts to help reduce costs for whānau.
We also offer a variety of trips during the year to support learning. These may include visits to local sites of interest as well as trips further afield when they connect to the learning programme.
Whānau Involvement
We know that students do better when the school and their whānau work together well. We encourage you to stay in touch with your child’s classroom teacher, this communication between home and school can make all the difference.
Many of our cultural, sporting, and outdoor education opportunities also rely on whānau support — particularly for supervision on trips and events. If you’re available to help, or have a suggestion for an opportunity we may have missed, please get in touch. We are always looking for ways to help our students shine.
Wellbeing Support
Student wellbeing is a priority at EOHS. We are committed to building a culture of belonging, care, and acceptance.
• Peer Support Programme: Year 13 students mentor small groups of Year 7s throughout Term 1, helping them transition smoothly and build strong tuakana-teina relationships.
• Counsellor: Available for confidential support. Students or whānau can request an appointment via the school office.
• Health Nurse: Regularly on site. Students can make appointments directly or through the office.
If your child is struggling, please don’t hesitate to contact their classroom teacher. We’re here to help.
Leadership Opportunities
Leadership is valued and nurtured at EOHS. Year 7 & 8 students can join:
• The Student Council
• The PB4L Student Committee
• Leadership roles within the classroom and extracurricular activities
We believe in growing confident leaders — of themselves and others.
Administration
• Absences: Please notify the office or your child’s form teacher if your child is late or absent. Unexplained absences will be followed up.
• Leaving School Grounds: Students must have written permission from a parent or caregiver and sign out at the office.
• Communication: The online Parent Portal provides access to reports, timetables, and the school calendar. Classroom teachers communicate primarily by email — if that’s a barrier, let us know and we’ll find a better way to stay in touch.
School newsletters are sent digitally, and updates are regularly posted on our social media channels.
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