Welcome to Opihi CollegeOpihi College is an innovative co-educational Year 7 to 13 school situated in Temuka, Aoraki, South Canterbury.

The change of our school name from Temuka High School to Opihi College is a reflection of the beginning of a new era for our school. The literal translation of the name Opihi – to spring forth, is symbolic of the many developments within our school.

We provide a positive learning environment in which all students can achieve success with respect for themselves and others.

We are confident that you will enjoy being part of our school community. Opihi College is an ideal size in that it is big enough to offer a wide range of learning opportunities, yet small enough for students to be known by staff and their needs quickly recognised.

A family atmosphere and a safe, supportive environment encourage students to perform to their potential.

We believe that the quality of personal relationships is of paramount importance in a school.

We have vision for your education that we believe will prepare you for life in the ‘global village’. We aim to create an environment for you that will inspire you to become a life-long learner and a leader of others.

As a school we are excited to be part of many educational developments and innovations. If you wish to know more about our school, please contact me to arrange a visit to view our fine facilities and to discuss your child’s needs on a personal level.

I leave you with a whakatauaki; it is partly about the blessing of each new morning and the process of its arrival. However on another level it is used to signify that every day is a new time for experiencing a new dawning. That from darkness (not knowing) we can go through the process of learning and discussing to arrive at a realization of the new morning (new knowledge and or possibilities before us). Every new day is likened to a new enlightenment presenting new experiences. We look forward to a successful partnership and I hope the meaning of this saying is true for you and your child.

My thanks go to Awatea Edwin (Board of Trustees member) for this whakatauaki and its meaning.

Haea te ata Dawn breaks Hapara te ata As night slips away Ka koroki te manu The bird chatters Ka waiori te kutu The beak turns Ko te atanui ‘Tis a great dawn Ka hora ena Spread before us Ka taki te umere The air resounds Ka awatea. Morning has arrived.

John CrudenPrincipal

CurriculumThe New Zealand Curriculum recognises that all students should have the opportunity to undertake study in the seven essential areas of learning and to develop essential skills. Such learning will enable them to develop their potential, to continue learning throughout life, and to participate effectively and productively in New Zealand’s democratic society and in a competitive world economy. Students study subjects that fit within one or more of the essential learning areas of the Curriculum.

At Opihi College, all junior students study all of the essential learning areas; this then leads to some specialisation so that students are prepared for senior work and qualifications.

Thinking SkillsThinking and literacy skills are taught and applied in a range of contexts. Our curriculum developments are helping to ensure that Opihi College models best teaching and learning practices for the 21st century.

Information TechnologyOpihi College is making a significant commitment to ensure that information technology is available to assist teaching and learning. A school wide network links 130 computers throughout the school.

Interactive whiteboard technology has been introduced – a first for our region. From 2007 some of our students will experience learning by video-conferencing from sites all around South Canterbury, New Zealand and further afield.

Increasingly our students are using new technologies in classroom activities across the school.

Our Library has been substantially redeveloped to become our Information Centre. All students have their own school email address and access to email and the internet. Visit our website www.opihicollege.school.nz.

The Essential SkillsThe New Zealand Curriculum specifies eight groupings of essential skills which we continually develop across our school curriculum.

• Communication skills• Numeracy skills• Information skills• Problem-solving skills• Self management and competitive skills• Social and co-operative skills• Physical skills• Work and study skills

Students will also examine the context and implementation of their own values, the values of others and the values on which our current social structures are based. Positive attitudes towards all areas of learning are also encouraged.

Junior School Extension and Support ProgrammesAs a Year 7 to 15 school we can offer specialist teachers to all year levels. In particular our Year 7 and 8 students gain the benefit of specialist teachers and facilities while still having the extra support offered by a homeroom structure. The homeroom support provides students with a strong start on which they can build as they progress through our school.

Challenging and enjoyable extension and enrichment opportunities are offered both within classes and as additional activities. As a school we have a focus on improving literacy and promoting extra support to those students requiring assistance. Our specialist literacy tutor works both individually and with groups of students. A learning support teacher oversees a variety of individual and small group programmes. A resource teacher of learning and behaviour is also attached to our school.

PathwaysOne size doesn’t fit all. Opihi College offers a range of courses and pathways for students ranging from academic courses leading to higher tertiary education, to vocational training leading directly to employment.

Challenge Horticulture CentreOpihi College runs a horticultural training facility in John Street, Temuka. This facility provides a Youth Training Course to school leavers between the ages of 16 to 18, and a Training Opportunities Course to adults.

Students within our school also have the opportunity to study towards National Certificates in Horticulture at this facility.

Services AcademyOpihi College runs a Services Academy located in Timaru. This academy caters both for school leavers and current school students. Students gain a variety of skills while working towards a National Certificate in Employment skills. The academy works in a defence force like environment.

ACE – (Alternative Co-operation Education) programmeThis programme is an alternative to mainstream school. The programme is based at the Temuka Community Centre and run in conjunction with the Temuka Community Care Trust. This programme provides extra support for those experiencing significant difficulties within mainstream schools.

Junior School Graduation ProgrammeOpihi has begun a programme for Junior School that will reward those who are well organised, have high standards of conduct, apply themselves well and attend regularly. The programme called Onward (Yrs 7 & 8) and Forward (Yrs 9 & 10) was first begun in 2005.

More InformationA full overview of the curriculum structure and subject progressions are included as separate sheets with this prospectus.

Further course information is contained in our course booklets published in July of each year. Copies can be requested from the school office.

Houses and Vertical FormEach student is placed in a vertical form class within one of four houses: Aoraki, Rata, Opihi and Pacific. The naming of these houses reflects a ‘mountains to the sea’ theme within our region. Great rivalry exists between our houses as they compete in sporting and academic challenges. The vertical form classes are made up of students from Years 7 to 13 and are lead by the form teacher. There is a whanau form class to promote a supportive Maori environment. The vertical forms are the basis for pastoral care within the school.

This system allows our students to integrate easily into the school and it provides opportunities for leadership.

Throughout their time at school the form teacher acts as a mentor to the students, monitoring progress, giving support, encouragement and guidance.

Peer SupportThe school operates an extensive peer support programme in which our Year 13 students help our new-entrant Year 7 students integrate into our school.

The programme deals with issues such as:> getting to know you> communication> orientation to the school> building a group> what to do if you have a problem

Guidance Counsellor and Pastoral DeanThese staff are available to assist with the pastoral needs of students.In keeping with the high value we place on high quality relationships the pastoral care network is a cornerstone of Opihi College.

Careers AdviceAdvice and guidance on career choices is given to all students. The careers advisor can supply students with a wealth of information on furthering their education or gaining employment.

Year Level DeanEach year level has a Dean who oversees the students’ general progress both academically and socially. The form teacher and year level dean are useful contacts if you have any issues or concerns you wish to discuss.

Public Health NurseA public health nurse visits the school once a week. Students are able to make confidential visits to the nurse.

C.H.A.T. ProgrammeA Confidential Help And Tutoring programme is run within the school. This programme assigns senior students to work with junior students who need extra support.

Pastoral Care

Rights and ResponsibilitiesAll students have rights. They also have associated responsibilities.

Your Rights

> To be treated with fairness,

respect and without

prejudice

> To be listened to.

> To learn without being

disrupted.

> To be given the opportunity

to reach your full potential.

> To be in a pleasant

environment.

> To feel secure.

> To know that your property

is safe.

Your Responsibilities> To treat everyone with fairness, respect and

without prejudice.> To listen to what others are saying.> Not to disrupt the learning of others.> To take advantage of

opportunities and make a genuine effort.> To do what you can to make the environment pleasant for others.

> To respect the safety and well being of others.> To look after and respect the property of others.

Discipline SystemThe school operates a simple three tiered discipline system involving reporting to prefects, lunchtime and after school detentions. Full details are available from the school office.

The school adheres to the principle of restorative justice. Wrongdoers and their victims are encouraged to work out their differences in a supported environment after discipline.

DamageStudents are expected to pay for any damage caused by misbehaviour or carelessness.

Voucher SystemThe school operates a voucher system to reward good effort, behaviour and work. Students accumulate vouchers and receive awards in level assemblies.

Parental Roles in our PartnershipBecause parents have enrolled their children at our school, it is expected that all parents and caregivers will give their full support to the staff in upholding high standards and encouraging positive behaviour based on common sense and good conduct.

Outdoor EducationWe run a comprehensive outdoor education programme which provides valuable social and confidence building experiences for all students.

The outdoor education programme includes:> a four day Year 7 camp at Raincliff> a three day Year 10 camp at Ben McLeod Station> a three day Year 13 trip to Mt Cook> numerous field trips in Biology, English,

Geography, History and Transition.> a three day Activities Week for all Year 8 to 10

students at the end of the year.

In addition, opportunities are frequently provided for students to go skiing and ice skating.

SportThe school has a tradition of sporting involvement and success. Students are encouraged to participate in, and given opportunities to succeed at a wide variety of sports.

The school is involved in a number of regional tournaments as well as interschool fixtures.

In addition, students participate in the annual swimming and athletic sports, the school cross country, inter-house competitions, school tennis and golf championships and inter-form competitions.

Cultural Activities

RecreationThe school runs a recreation programme for all students one period a week.

Students are able to choose an activity from a wide range of options such as:Aerobics AthleticsBasketball CricketCycling Craft makingChess ComputersGolf Theatre SportsDebating FishingJewellery making HockeyJournalism NetballTouch RugbyRunning SoccerSoftball Self DefenceWalking Defensive DrivingStage Challenge First Aid Safety Training

Te Umu KahaOur kapahaka group takes its name from the original name of this area. The group is well supported by staff and local community and its mana and ihi are at the heart of our school. We are tremendously proud of them.Whaia te iti kahurangiPursue the things you cherish

MusicWe have a tremendously alive and vibrant music department supported by an Arts Coordinator.

Students have opportunities to learn a musical instrument, play in the school orchestra or smaller sub-groups, perform both in and out of school and participate in school productions. A number of school bands have competed in Rock Quest competitions.

The cultural activities of Opihi College are of a quality that belies the school’s size. Students at Opihi have considerable opportunities beyond the sports field and the classroom.

Stage Challenge and ShowsThe school regularly competes in Stage Challenge. All students have opportunities in drama within the junior curriculum and often the school is involved in larger productions. The school biannially stages a major production involving many of the pupils.

Fashion AffairThis annual event follows our school ball and provides an opportunity for students to model their ball attire. Other features of the evening are fabric technology designs and wearable art.

Student LeadershipOur students are encouraged to be involved in the activities of the school. We have a student council which is led by our Head Boy and Head Girl. The council is formed from our senior prefects and student representative on the Board of Trustees. Students from within this council chair four sub-councils in the areas of the arts, sport, services and the environment. These sub-councils have elected representatives from each year level in the school. Their main goal is to enhance school life by organising activities for the benefit of the students, such as:> talent quests> mufti days> sporting tournaments> support of charities> improvement of the environment> competitions

Duke of EdinburghStudents are able to work towards bronze, silver and gold awards in a variety of activities.

Awards and TrophiesThe school has an annual senior and junior prizegiving during which we honour a full range of student abilities and activities. We also have an annual sports awards evening.

Academic AwardsComer Cup for Dux .Burrough Family Cup for Proxime Accessit.Class awards for Excellence and Merit.Individual subject trophies. Awards and Certificates for Excellence, Merit and Endeavour.

Sporting AwardsJuriss Cup for the Best All Round Student in Sport.Awards and trophies for excellence in, contribution to, most improved, and leadership in a range of sports.Merit Certificates in Sport.

Special AwardsThe Centenary Cup for Contribution to the School.Jack Robinson Cup for Industry in the senior school.The Te Umu Kaha Cup for Contribution to the Whanau.‘Te Piripono’ Trophy for loyalty to Te Umu Kaha.Trophies for Service, Contribution and Loyalty to many aspects of school life.

We encourage parental and caregiver involvement in the education of their child. We appreciate being informed of any problems which may affect a student’s performance at school. Likewise we will contact you whenever the need arises.

Reporting to Parents

Term OneHomeroom teacher interviews are held for Year 7 students within the first few weeks of term one. Interim reports are issued to all students towards the end of term. Individual interviews can be arranged following these reports if necessary.

Term TwoDetailed written reports are issued for all senior students (Years 11 to 13) at the end of term 2.

Term ThreeDetailed written reports are issued for all junior students (Year 7 to 10) at the beginning of term 3.

Report evening(s) are held following the issue of written reports for parents and caregivers to discuss the reports with the teachers.

Term FourDetailed written reports are issued to senior students prior to study leave for their external examinations.

Detailed written reports are issued to junior students at the junior prizegiving ceremony.

Parents can also make appointments to see the year level Dean and individual teachers at any time by contacting the school office.

NewsletterA newsletter is issued to all families each fortnight. Details of coming events and news of school activities are contained in this newsletter. To arrange for the newsletter to be emailed directly to your home, email the school office: office@opihicollege.school.nz Newsletters are also posted on our website www.opihicollege.school.nz

School FeesThe school activity fee is a donation; however, it is expected by the Board of Trustees that all parents will pay it for the benefit of their children. The Board of Trustees has resolved to keep the school fee at a low level to encourage a high payment rate.

Subject fees are to cover the cost of materials used.

Details of the school fees are notified in February each year.

Partnership

Student DiariesEach student is required to purchase a School Diary at the start of the year. This gives details on many aspects of school life. The Diary also provides parents with an opportunity to monitor their child’s class work and homework. It also offers an opportunity for parents to make initial contact with subject teachers and form teachers. Parents are asked to sign the Diary each week.

HomeworkIf students are to succeed in their education then they must learn to study. Study develops self discipline and basic foundation skills. At its best study is also part of the ignition of an intellect, the time to follow a passion. If no homework is set learners could do no worse than read, read, read.

Normal times to be devoted to homework each night during the school week are:

Year 7 - about 40 minutesYear 8 - about 1 hourYear 9-10 - about 1½ hoursYear 11 - about 2 hoursYear 12-13 - it could be expected that 2½ hours could be averaged per night.

If there are any problems over the amount of homework required, please contact the subject teacher or form teacher.

Parents should be careful to help their children gain a balance between their sport, their study and their paid employment.

Attendance/IllnessRegular attendance is essential. Only illness or some unavoidable cause should prevent students from attending school. Parents should phone the office on the day of absence and on their return to school students should hand in a dated and signed explanatory note to their form teacher.

A health bay is provided for those who may become sick or who are injured at school. If necessary parents will be notified as soon as possible.

Lunch PassesStudents may only leave the school grounds with the permission of school staff.

Lunch passes can be used on a day or permanent basis with permission from parents and the school. Lunch passes are only for students to go to and from their own home for lunch.

Vehicle PassesSenior students may travel to and from school by car or motor bike provided they have the permission of their parents or caregivers, the appropriate licence and they have a vehicle pass. Vehicle pass forms are available from the school office. All passengers must also obtain a vehicle pass and parental permission.

PropertyAll personal property should be clearly marked with the student’s name. Should it be necessary to bring money or valuables to school, we advise that these items be handed in to the school office for safe keeping. Parents are advised to check if their household insurances cover lost items of clothing, as the school is not liable for damage to personal belongings or property. Bikes should always be locked.

Acceptable Use of the InternetIn the interests of student safety the school has clear guidelines for the use of the internet. A copy of the acceptable use of the internet policy is included with the enrolment material. By signing our enrolment form students are agreeing to abide by our policy.

Enrolment Orientation VisitEnrolment material is included with this prospectus. The Year 7 Dean and Principal visit our contributing schools in October each year. This is followed up by an Orientation visit for students and parents, and a parents evening. Prospective parents and students are also welcome to arrange an interview with the Principal at any time.

Board of TrusteesBoard of Trustees elections are held every three years. Our school has a staggered election process to allow for continuity of members. Contact details of Board Members are available from the Board Secretary through the school office.

Parent Teacher AssociationThe Opihi College Parent Teacher Association provides a forum for discussion on issues relating to students, parents and the school. All parents and caregivers are encouraged to be involved in P.T.A. activities.

Personal PresentationThe appearance of the students is expected to reflect credit on the school at all times. The following regulations apply to all students.

> Hair must be clean, tidy and safe. No extremes, including changing hair to unnatural colours, are permitted. Boys must be clean-shaven.

> A taonga may be worn appropriately. It is to be removed for physical education and sport as required.

> Students may wear one stud earring or sleeper only per ear at their own risk. No other jewellery should be visible. Facial piercing, tongue piercing and visible tattoos are not permitted.

> For students in Years 7 – 12 the school uniform is to be worn correctly and neatly. Make-up and coloured nail polish are not to be worn with school uniform. Year 13 students can wear tidy, appropriate mufti as detailed in the dress regulations for Year 13.

TransportOur school is serviced by Ministry of Education school bus routes. These have been recently re-negotiated to better meet the needs of our community.

Details of the Waitohi, Pleasant Point/Levels, Winchester/Milford, Milford/Clandeboye and Rangitata/Clandeboye bus routes can be obtained from the school bus controller.

In addition to the Ministry of Education bus routes, the school operates a bus from Timaru to service the school and its associated academies. This is a paying service. Further information can be obtained from the school bus controller.

A high standard of behaviour is expected from all students on all buses. The school reserves the right to remove any student from a bus in the interests of safety.

UniformThe Board of Trustees has recently reviewed our school uniform after consultation with our school community. All new students to our school and students replacing items of uniform are required to meet the new uniform requirements. The new senior uniform will be fully implemented by 2006. The new junior uniform will be fully implemented by 2007. Further details on the uniform and suppliers is available on the uniform sheet enclosed with this prospectus.

Junior Summer

Junior Winter

Senior Summer

Senior Winter

International StudentsOur school has a strong history of providing quality education to international students.

A particular feature of the school is the individual attention given to senior students. This is made possible by small classes in Years 12 and 13. Class sizes of 10-15 students are common.

We have approximately 20 international students studying at different levels within the school. These students come from Thailand, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea and China.

Facilities and Services The school is located in Temuka (population 4000), just one and a half hours drive from Christchurch International Airport and 10 minutes drive from the city of Timaru. The school has excellent, modern facilities.

Course InformationThe school offers a wide curriculum leading to New Zealand’s National Certficate qualifications.

A comprehensive 10 week intensive English language programme before entering the high school programme is available.

English Language SupportThe school has an excellent English language programme for international students. Students study in small groups of up to six students for internationally recognised ESOL qualifications eg. Pitman ESOL examination and TOEFL and IELTS. We consistently produce excellent results in these examinations for our students. English language support is provided as part of the tuition fees.

Course CommencementWe are happy to accept students at any time during the school year.

AccommodationAll international students are required to live in homestays arranged by the school.

Further InformationVisit the international section of our website or contact our International Student Manager via the school office.

The FutureIn educating children for the world of tomorrow we have tried to incorporate a vision for the skills needed to facilitate the survival of the ‘global village’. Part of that vision is for our students to be as excellent as they were meant to be. We strive to have our students be excellent in their culture, their citizenship, their career and in their whole being.

Opihi means to spring forth and education was about a leading out of the ‘light’. At Opihi we reinterpret those meanings to draw from your child what strengths they can give to the world and give to them skills they need to succeed.

From our staff we expect genuine concern for your child. We expect that we will inspire and motivate your child. Your child can also expect to experience the very best in innovative teaching with emerging educational technologies.

Kia tuohu, me he maunga teitei, ko Aoraki anakeIf you must bow your head then let it be to a lofty mountain such as Aoraki.

ContactEnquiries WelcomeOpihi CollegeRichard Pearse DriveTemukaNew ZealandPhone 03 615 7442Fax

03 615 9987International Phone 0064 3 6157442International Fax 0064 3 6159987Email office@opihicollege.school.nzWebsite www.opihicollege.school.nz

Language development is essential to intellectual growth. It enables us to make sense of the world around us. The ability to use spoken and written language effectively, to read and to listen, and to discern critically messages from television, film, the computer, and other visual media is fundamental both to learning and to effective participation in society and the work-force.

Language is a vital medium for transmitting values and culture.

Maori is the language of the tangata whenua of New Zealand. It is a toanga under the terms of the Treaty of Waitangi and is an official language of New Zealand. Students will have the opportunity to become proficient in Maori.

All students benefit from learning another language. This broadens students’ general language abilities and brings their own language into sharper focus. It enriches them intellectually, socially, and culturally, offers an understanding of the ways in which other people think and behave.

An understanding of mathematics helps students to develop a

logical approach and an appreciation of symmetry and patterns.

Mathematics involves the ability to calculate, to estimate, and to reason logically. Mathematical problem solving involves the selection and correct application of basic skills, the discovery of patterns of shape and number, the making of models, the interpretation of data, and the recognition and communication of related ideas. The solution of mathematical problems requires creativity as well as a systematic approach.

Mathematics is required in many subjects of the school curriculum, wherever there is a need for calculation or estimation, quantitative research, measurement, decision making, or precise communication through symbols or graphs.

Science is a universal discipline through which people investigate the living, material, physical, and technological components of their environment, and make sense of them in logical and creative ways. It helps people to investigate things systematically, to clarify ideas, to ask questions, to test

The essential learning areas of the New Zealand curriculum

Language and Languages

Mathematics

Science

explanations through measurement and observation, and to use their findings to establish the worth of ideas.

Active participation in science fosters curiosity. It enables students to develop a clearer understanding of aspects of the world around them and beyond.

Students will develop their understanding of the changing nature of science, and the values and assumptions on which it rests. They will recognise the contribution that different perspectives make to the evolution of understanding in science.

Some subjects which contribute to this area of learning include science, biology, chemistry, physics, aspects of geography, and applied studies such as horticulture.

Technology is the creative and purposeful use of human knowledge, skills, and physical resources to solve practical problems. It involves developing objects, systems, or environments.

Technology education develops a wide range of skills, including those of problem solving, design, construction, communication, critical thinking, analysis, synthesis, and evaluation.

Students will develop an understanding of the ways in which technology both shapes and is shaped by society.

Students will develop the capability to design and make, and to improve objects, systems, and environments in order to solve problems. Students will also learn to appraise the potential costs and benefits of various technological applications.

The arts are powerful forms of personal and social expression. They link imagination, thinking, and feeling. They provide essential learning for living and develop a wide range of both general and specific skills.

The arts are a source of international communication and understanding. They express and shape identity.

Learning through the arts enables students to appreciate and understand their own heritage and other cultures.

The arts encourage students to investigate their own values and those of others. They enable students, as individuals and as members of a group, to understand, express, and communicate present and past experiences.

Technology

The Arts

Students will be given opportunities, individually and co-operatively, to explore, to generate, to shape, and to communicate their ideas in creative ways. Through viewing, listening, and responding to creative works they will develop critical awareness and enjoyment of the arts.

A broad understanding of society is essential if students are to take their full place within it as confident, informed, and responsible participants.

Through the social sciences, students will develop the knowledge and sense of perspective needed to understand New Zealand’s changing society and economy.

An emphasis will be placed on learning about New Zealand society. This will include an understanding of the Treaty of Waitangi, and of New Zealand’s bicultural heritage and multicultural society.

Students will be challenged to think clearly and critically about human behaviour, and to explore different values and viewpoints. Such learning will help them to clarify their own values and to make informed judgments.

Students will also develop a wide range of general and specific skills, including skills in research, critical and creative thinking, communication, and social participation.

Students will develop their understanding of their own culture and heritage, and those of others.

Through physical education, students will be given opportunities toparticipate in a variety of individual and team activities. These activities are designed to enable students to achieve their potential in physical growth and development, to improve their health and fitness, to develop a wide range of motor skills, and to learn the importance of disciplined training, competition, and team work.

As part of health education, students will be encouraged to set realistic and worthwhile personal goals, and to develop healthy patterns of living. They will develop the skills to participate in a wide range of social activities, and to build responsible and satisfying relationships.

This area of learning enables students to learn about and develop confidence in themselves and their abilities, and to approach learning with energy and application.

Social Sciences

Health and Physical

Education