WELCOME TO RICCARTON HIGH SCHOOL Kia Ora and Welcome to Riccarton High School
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ur school is very successful and highly regarded. We are a smaller, family school offering a wide range of opportunities. Our staff have high standards of themselves and high expectations of their students and we are proud of our wide variety of achievements. At Riccarton High School we provide learning experiences, inside and outside the classroom, that challenge and support our students to: • strive to excel • achieve to the best of their ability • become an independent, lifelong learner • be caring, responsible, involved citizens who take opportunities • serve others I know that the key to this school is its culture. We are strengthened by the Riccarton Way which is the spirit behind the way we think, act and feel at Riccarton High. It is about commitment, honesty, respect and excellence. Our students are proud of how positive an attitude the Riccarton Way creates among themselves and with the staff. Riccarton High is a safe and friendly place to be. The Riccarton student is an all-rounder, looking for ways to achieve and develop strengths, whether they be academic, sporting, artistic, cultural or in service and friendship. The combination of academic and co-curricular activities contributes to the ‘Riccarton experience’ and our aim is to develop well-rounded students who are proud to be at this school. The recent earthquakes have been serious events for Christchurch, with damage particularly in some eastern suburbs and the Central Business District. The Riccarton area and Riccarton High School have been largely unaffected. Our students are unharmed and are supporting each other as they come to terms with what has happened to their city. This reflects the wonderful community spirit evident across the city and the determination to rebuild an even better Christchurch. Work is already beginning to re-establish what has been lost. Once again, welcome to Riccarton, a school which provides an excellent learning environment where students enjoy learning. This school makes a positive difference to people’s lives.
Phil Holstein Principal
Riccarton High School has agreed to observe and be bound by the Code of Practice for
“Learn that you may be of service”
the Pastoral Care of International Students published by the Ministry of Education. Copies
31 Vicki Street, Christchurch 8042, NZ
of the Code are available on request from this
Ph:
0064 3 3485073
institution or from the New Zealand Ministry of
Fax:
0064 3 3433354
Education website at:
email:
international@riccarton.school.nz
http://www.minedu.govt.nz/goto/international
website:
www.riccarton.school.nz
Christchurch and Riccarton
Riccarton High School
Christchurch
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hristchurch is situated on the edge of the Canterbury Plains against the Port Hills of Banks Peninsula. With its international airport it is the gateway to the South Island with its many tourist attractions. It is the main city of the South Island, has a population of 400,000, two universities and a busy port. It is called the Garden City because of its beautiful gardens and parks. Christchurch offers a world class English language education. As part of New Zealand, we enjoy a high standard of living surrounded by beautiful and varied countryside, hills and mountains. Our population is culturally diverse and socially stable. We provide the ideal environment for those wishing to improve their English and further their education.
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he school is situated in the South West of Christchurch, 20 minutes by bus from the centre of the city. It is well served by four large suburban shopping malls close by, ready access to the airport and a wide range of local recreational activities. It is a decile 7, state co-educational school which caters very well for the academic and social needs of all its students. About 30% of our students were born overseas from 50 different countries and we enjoy the multicultural richness that this brings. We are proud of our reputation as a school that serves international students well. Our roll of around 950 enables us to give all of our students the individual care and attention they deserve. Our school is safe and has a friendly family atmosphere. We have high academic expectations of all our students. Our qualification results are above the national averages and are a source of pride for the school. The academic achievements of our international students have been consistently high and contribute significantly to this proud academic record. Riccarton High School facilities are second to none. Our spacious park-like grounds provide excellent recreational, sporting and relaxation opportunities. Tree-shaded buildings house modern well-equipped classrooms. A recent development is our partnership with Christchurch City Council in the joint-use community library built on the school grounds. This gives our students 7-day access to the library resources and free internet. The school is very well equipped with information technology, and our students enjoy the benefits this brings to their learning. Riccarton High School is recognised as a school that is at the forefront in enhancing learning through the use of information technology.
Meeting student needs
Meeting student needs Riccarton High School is well-equipped to help students achieve Computers Riccarton has over 200 computers for student use. They are all networked and used extensively in the teaching programmes for all students. All students have email addresses and are able to access email and intranet material from outside the school.
Library We share a joint-use library with the Christchurch City Council on the school grounds. This is a groundbreaking venture for New Zealand and gives students access to a huge range of material - books, websites, and digital resources that makes Riccarton the envy of other schools in Christchurch. Specialist staff are available to assist students in their research and study.
Music and Drama Riccarton has a modern Performing Arts facility with a specialist music room and fully equipped drama room. Additional rooms are available for practice. Music and Drama are available as academic subjects and extra curricular activities.
Outdoor Education Adventure Based Management is a Year 12 course which covers tramping, sailing, kayaking, mountain biking and orienteering. All Year 9 and 10 students spend a week at our Lodge
on the West Coast facing challenging group activities in the outdoors. Senior students can accompany the Year 9 and 10 classes as leaders.
Field Trips Many subjects in the senior school require students to go outside the classroom. These may range from day trips around the city to 3 day trips to parts of the South Island to carry out course requirements for their subject.
Orientation All international students participate in an orientation programme on their entry to Riccarton High School. The orientation aims to help students settle into their new life and school. Students are: • shown around the school facilities • helped to see what services and activities are available • assisted with their academic programme • tested to see they can undertake their programme • inducted into the Riccarton Way, the school rules, complaints procedures, counselling and support services • given help with their English speaking if they need help • familiarised with life in New Zealand
International Student Services International Student Services Riccarton International International students are under the care of the International Student Director who is assisted by a Homestay Coordinator and Administrative Assistant. All enrolments, matters of pastoral care and enquiries should be directed to the International Student Director.
Deans There is a Dean in charge of each year level. The Deans place students in classes and subjects and are responsible for the discipline and welfare of their students.
School Rules All students are expected to behave in a responsible and courteous manner at school. Students are expected to follow all school rules.
Specific Rules for International Students
to work up to 20 hours per week during term time. You cannot start work until you have received the Variation of Conditions of Student Permit from New Zealand Immigration Services.
Homestay Special rules apply to students in homestays. Please read your homestay guidelines, rules and contract very carefully when you receive them.
Flatting/Vehicles
You are not permitted to go flatting. You are not allowed to own a motor vehicle whilst you are under the age of 18 and cannot drive a car unless you hold a New Zealand Driver’s Licence.
Holidays
You must start and finish school on the set dates. You will not be allowed to leave school before the start of the holidays unless there are very special reasons for you to do so. Therefore, it is important that you book your flight home as early as possible.
Student Support
Attendance
Assessment
Frequent or unexplained absences must be reported to the New Zealand Immigration Services and may result in cancellation of the Student Visa. If you are absent from school you must bring a note from your caregiver. However, if you are absent for more than 3 days, you may be required to bring a note from your doctor.
Orientation
Employment Under the New Zealand Immigration Service Policy Guidelines you are permitted to work while studying in New Zealand. You must apply in writing (on the school forms) to the school for permission
All students’ English, Mathematics and Science are assessed on their arrival at school to ensure that they get put into the right class level. The school reserves the right to make that decision.
All students are expected to attend school for 3 days before the official opening day to start on their Orientation Programme. The details of the programme will be given to students prior to arrival in New Zealand.
International Student Services
Health and Travel Insurance Eligibility for Health Services Most international students are not entitled to publicly funded health services while in New Zealand. If you receive medical treatment during your visit, you may be liable for the full costs of that treatment. Full details on entitlements to publicly-funded health services are available through the Ministry of Health, and can be viewed on their website at http://www.moh. govt.nz.
English for International Students •
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Accident Insurance The Accident Compensation Corporation provides insurance for all New Zealand citizents, residents and temporary visitors to New Zealand, but you may still be liable for all other medical and related costs. Further information can be viewed on the ACC website at http://www.acc.co.nz
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Medical and Travel Insurance
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It is a Government requirement that you have a medical and travel insurance policy before you depart from your home country for New Zealand. Riccarton International can arrange insurance for you. Please request this service during enrolment.
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Students whose English levels are too low to cope with English in their classes, are placed in ESOL programmes according to their level of English. All students are tested upon arrival. Those who require intensive ESOL tuition will be placed in our special programme. As a general rule, a student entering at Yr 11, 12 or 13 is expected to have reached the upper intermediate level in their English language. All other students are put into mainstream English classes. IELTS courses are offered to Yr 12 and Yr 13 students. Specialist subject teachers are also available to provide subject support, especially for senior students, in most subjects. ESOL staff are all qualified and experienced and the department has good resources and equipment. The Department has a specialised ESOL room and International Student Offices.
Pastoral Care and Homestay
Homestays
Out of School Care - Guardians
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or out-of-school care, parents must provide names, addresses and contact phone numbers of adult guardians who will be responsible for their children during their stay in New Zealand. Older brothers and sisters do not fulfil this role. If parents are not able to provide adult guardians, then the school will provide them with names and contact numbers of school approved guardians. Guardians of students are required to: • Be the contact person for the school. • Ensure the student follows all the school rules. • Ensure the student attends school regularly. • Be in contact with students and parents regularly. • Monitor the student’s accommodation and contact host parents regularly. • Be responsible for the student’s behaviour out of school hours. • Be responsible for the student’s international travel, medical insurance, banking facilities and general welfare. • Be responsible for shifting students when there is a homestay change. • Be responsible for the renewal of the student’s Visa.
omestays are organised by the Homestay Coordinator. All prospective homestays are inspected, host families interviewed and Police vetted. The students are met by the host family at the airport on their arrival. The Homestay Coordinator meets with the students regularly and when any student wishes to discuss any matters in an emergency. The Homestay Coordinator also keeps in regular contact with the host family and student to ensure the students are as settled and as happy as possible. The student’s homestay placement is a service provided by the school for a small fee. The school will invoice parents for the full homestay payment and then forward this money onto the homestay family every two weeks. Students must not change homestay without prior permission from the International Student Director and a minimum of two weeks’ notice is required otherwise the student will lose homestay fees. Students who wish to retain their room at their homestay while they are absent during the holidays must pay a retaining fee in advance. For their homestay fees, students will receive a fully furnished room, complete with study table and lamp, all their meals, linen and laundry. Students are encouraged to join in family activities of the host family. Parents who have concerns about their children’s welfare may contact the Homestay Coordinator during school hours. Phone: 03-3485073; Fax: 03-3433354; Email: international@riccarton.school.nz Pastoral care and counselling services from the International Student Director, Guidance Counsellors and the Deans are also available to students who have school and/or study concerns.
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A mentor will be provided to those students who do not require the full support of a guardian. This is at the discretion of the school.
Being a Riccarton Student All students are expected to behave in ways that reflect ‘The Riccarton Way’. ‘The Riccarton Way’ is the spirit and principles behind the way we think and act and feel about ourselves and about others at Riccarton High School. We believe in: commitment to develop positive relationships and serve others honesty to ourselves and others respect for everyone and the environment excellence in learning and in life
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he broad principles of The Riccarton Way become specific in the School Rules that are published in the Student Diary. These rules cover behaviour in and out of the classroom and such issues as the use of school computers, homework and assessment, attendance and uniform requirements. On enrolment, parents, caregivers and students must agree to follow the school rules. Parents and caregivers will be involved at an early stage if a student does not follow the rules. Key expectations of students are that: • they will maintain an acceptable standard of work, complete homework and assignments and attend school unless prevented by sickness or personal matters in the family; • they will not consume or possess tobacco, alcoholic liquor or illicit drugs and solvents or prescription drugs while in school uniform or in mufti in a public place where the student is known to belong to the school or if any such action could bring the school into disrepute; • they will be cooperative, tolerant and respectful and not physically or verbally abuse others or encourage such abuse; • they will respect the property of others and the school environment; • they will wear the correct uniform when required. The school also endeavours to promote the right attitudes and behaviours through a series of programmes and opportunities that provide support and positive reinforcement for all our students whilst, at the same time, offering leadership and service opportunities.
Sport, Recreation and Culture
Cultural and Recreational Activities
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iccarton High offers all students the opportunity to get involved in a wide range of sporting, cultural and recreational activities and to experience the satisfaction and achievement which help develop well-rounded human beings. A measure of our school’s success is the large number of students who join the clubs, teams and activities available. Whether they seek competition, attainment of excellence, fitness, the chance to learn new skills or simply good fun, we offer something for everyone.
Cultural Activities Music thrives at Riccarton High School. Many groups ranging from chamber to jazz to chorale - meet and perform regularly. Professional tutors, offering class time lessons, teach interested students to play the instruments of their choice, many of which are available for hire. Drama is also a real strength of the school. Drama groups are involved in a range of activities from junior drama to full school musicals. Students have the opportunity to be trained in all aspects of production. Particular highlights are our involvement in drama festivals and school visits. The Performing Arts Block provides excellent facilities for both music and drama. There is a range of other cultural and recreational activities available at the school that cater for every taste.
Cultural & Recreational Activities Barbershop Chess Choir Chorale Christian Fellowship Computer Club Concert Band Debating Drama
Environment Action Jazz Band Kapa Haka Learn an instrument Lighting and Sound Orchestra Pacific Island Group Rock Band Singing Theatresports
Sport, Recreation and Culture
Sporting Opportunities ur spacious, well-drained, superbly maintained fields, all-weather netball and tennis surfaces and large gymnasium complex provide excellent facilities for
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sport. The significant commitment by staff, senior students and parents to sport encourages high participation rates. To help ensure this the school provides many team uniforms for a small hire fee. School teams are involved in competitions on Wednesday afternoons, Saturday and a number of evenings during the week. Annual winter and summer exchanges with Kaikorai Valley College in Dunedin offer our students challenging opportunities for practising and perfecting their sporting prowess. Fiercely contested and well supported lunchtime inter-class competitions in such sports as cricket, netball and touch rugby add another dimension to sport. A wide range of sports is offered ranging from the traditional team sports to less well known activities such as cross-country and horseriding.
Sporting and recreational activities available at the school: Winter Sports Badminton Basketball Cross-country Soccer / Football Hockey Horseriding Netball Rugby Squash
Summer Sports Cricket Dragonboating Golf Rock Climbing Swimming Tennis Touch rugby Volleyball
Courses of Study
Year 9
Year 10
Compulsory English or ESOL1 Mathematics Social Studies Science Health and Physical Education Technology Design Food ICT 2 Graphics Arts Music or Performance Music Art Drama
Compulsory English or ESOL1 Mathematics Social Studies Science Health and Physical Education
Year 11
National Certificate of
Educational Achievement (Level 1)
Compulsory English or English Applied or ESOL1 or English for New Speakers or Te Reo Maori Mathematics or Mathematics Applied
9 10 11
Options Languages French Japanese Te Reo Maori
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All students study the compulsory subjects and one of the languages for the whole year. Other subjects are studied in semesters, grouped to ensure that students get a balance of Arts and Technology. Most classes are mixed ability. We aim for class sizes of 25-27. An intensive ESOL1 programme is also provided.
ESOL1 - English for speakers of other Languages. ICT 2
- Information and Communication Technology.
SPEC 3 - Specific Preparation for Employment and Citizenship. IELTS 4 - International English Language Testing System.
Options Technology ICT 2 Food Design Awards Hard Materials Fabric Graphics Arts Art Music Drama Languages French Te Reo Maori Japanese ESOL1 Enterprise Studies
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All students study the compulsory subjects for the whole year. Languages are studied for the whole year. Other optional subjects are studied for six months. Students select 4 options (2 for each half year) or 3 if they are taking a language (1 language for whole year, 2 for each half year). An intensive ESOL1 programme is also provided.
Options Accounting Drama Economics French Geography Graphics Health and Physical Education History Japanese Music Physical Education Science Science Applied Science Onwards Social Science Applied Technology: Design Technology: Food Technology: Fashion Design Technology: Foundations Technology: Hard Materials Technology: ICT 2 Te Reo Maori Visual Art SPEC3
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All students study 6 subjects. NCEA
The National Certificate of Educational Achievement is the qualification at Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3. Students are assessed against Achievement Standards and/or Unit Standards. Each Unit or Achievement Standard gained provides a certain number of credits toward NCEA at each Level.
Courses of Study
Year 12
National Certificate of
Year 13
National Certificate of
Educational Achievement (Level 2)
Educational Achievement (Level 3)
Compulsory English or English Onwards or English Applied or ESOL1 or IELTS 4 or Te Reo Maori
Compulsory Directions (one hour per week) Options Accounting Biology Chemistry Classical Studies Drama Economics Electronics English English Onwards ESOL1 / IELTS 4 French Geography Graphics Health History Japanese Mathematics with Calculus
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Options Accounting Adventure Based Management Biology Chemistry Classical Studies Drama Economics Electronics French Geography Graphics Health History Japanese Legal and Community Studies Mathematics Mathematics Applied Mathematics with Statistics
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Media Studies Music Physical Education Physics Science Applied Technology: Design Technology: Food Technology: Hard Materials Technology: Hospitality Technology: ICT 2 Te Reo Maori Tikanga Maori Tourism Studies Visual Art: Design Visual Art: Painting / Printmaking Visual Art: Photography SPEC3
Students select 6 subjects for the whole year or a mixture of full-year and semester courses. An English course is the only compulsory subject. Students can study a combination of Level 1 and Level 2 subjects.
ESOL1 - English for speakers of other Languages. ICT 2
- Information and Communication Technology.
SPEC 3 - Specific Preparation for Employment and Citizenship. IELTS 4 - International English Language Testing System.
Media Studies Music Physical Education Physics Statistics and Modelling Sport Leadership Technology: Design Technology: Food Technology: Hard Materials Technology: ICT 2 Te Reo Maori Tikanga Maori Tourism Studies Visual Arts: Design Visual Arts: Painting Visual Arts: Photography Visual Arts: Printmaking SPEC3
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Students study 5 or 6 subjects in addition to Directions. Students can study a combination of Level 1, 2 and 3 subjects. High achieving students have the option of entering for Scholarship in individual subjects.
University Entrance Requirements To qualify for entrance to a university in New Zealand the student must obtain from the National Qualifications Framework: 1. A minimum of 42 credits at Level 3 or higher. 2. A minimum of 8 credits at Level 2 or higher in English; 4 credits must be in Reading and 4 credits must be in Writing. 3. A minimum of 14 credits at Level 1 or higher in Mathematics. These requirements will be explained more fully when you are at the school.
Enrolment
Enrolment
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ou can either use the services of a local education consultant or apply for a place yourself. A list of local education consultants can be obtained from New Zealand Education Service Centres, New Zealand Embassy or New Zealand High Commission in Bangkok, Hong Kong, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Seoul, Singapore, Taipei, Tokyo and Hamburg. On receipt of your fully completed enrolment form, if you qualify according to the school criteria for entry, you will be informed that there is a place available for you. • You are required to inform the school whether you accept the place or not. • If you do, then an invoice is issued to you to pay the fees. This can be done by Telegraphic Transfer, Bank Draft or personal cheque. • No receipts are issued until the fees are credited to the school’s bank account, which can take up to four days. • On payment of your fees, you will be sent the receipt and the official Offer of Place form. • Your enrolment is now confirmed.
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You or your consultant will then be required to apply for your Student Visa. Full details of visa and permit requirements, advice on rights to employment in New Zealand while studying, and reporting requirements are available through the New Zealand Immigration Service, and can be viewed on their website at: http://www.immigration.govt.nz Your enrolment is finally completed when you receive a letter with all the information that you require for starting school.