Our Syndicate
The Year 7 and 8 syndicate is designed to provide a sense of belonging both socially and in learning, and a sense of unity as a group in the wider school. For continuity, where possible, Y7 classes in particular have the same teacher for more than one curriculum area, mainly in the subjects of English, social studies and mathematics. Each Year 7 class bears the name of a local maunga - Pukenui, Pukehuia and Tokatoka.
Most core classes are in the Year 7 and 8 area which also has a shared common learning area. We have our own playground just for the Year 7 and 8s to choose to play in if they wish. Pastoral care is provided by the Homeroom teacher, the whanau teacher and the iwi Dean.
Outside the Classroom
Otamatea offers a variety of education outside the classroom experiences, (EOTC) for the Year 7 and 8s with many sporting events throughout the year including the Kaiwaka Sports Day , social studies trips, National Young Leaders’ day, Mathex Competition, Kids’ Lit competition and more. The Year 7s begin the year with an on-site overnight camp at our local marae and the end of the year brings activities week where the Year 7s participate in a variety of fun activities out of school, and the Year 8s head off to a 3 day camp.
Curriculum
A big plus in being part of a secondary school is that students have teachers who are experts in their field for each curriculum area.
The Years 7 and 8 areas of learning are:
English ( 5 periods/week)
Mathematics (5 periods/week)
Social Studies (3 periods/week)
Science (2 periods/week)
Physical Education and Health (3 periods/week)
Maori (2 period/week)
Rotation subjects:
Drama
Music
Art
Spanish
Wood and Metal Tech
Food Tech
Digital Technology
Graphics
French
As part of a secondary school, our students have the advantage of having access to equipment and tools which they will continue to use throughout their schooling. It is particularly advantageous for our students to experience science in the lab.
