Prospectus Prospectus

2017 PROSPECTUS WELCOME TO WESTERN SPRINGS COLLEGE Western Springs College is on the threshold of becoming thinking. Accordingly, we seek to a new school. The opportunity to design and construct offer an increasingly personalised new buildings and facilities presents the school education which recognises and caters for the unique individual community with the prospect of an innovative secondary interests and strengths of each of school learning environment which will further enhance our students and in doing so opens the delivery of an already outstanding education. up a range of challenging pathways beyond school. All successful educational institutions We emphasise our commitment to benefit from self-review and self- WSC’s core business of producing We retain our mission to develop renewal. Planning for the new school graduates who gain the academic well-rounded young adults who hold sound values, including, above all, has sharpened our thinking both qualifications required for competitive self-respect and respect for others. about the essence of a Western access to sought-after tertiary We celebrate our coeducational Springs College education and about level courses. the ways we need to change in and multicultural identity and the order to future-proof the educational We have also reaffirmed our identity opportunities presented to establish experiences through which our as a school distinctive for nurturing healthy friendships and to become at young people will thrive and develop. individuality, creativity and critical ease living and working with people from the diverse range of backgrounds which is Auckland today. For parents, membership of our school community means ready access to, and direct communication with relevant staff and the chance to belong to a very active and supportive parent network with clear links to staff and trustees. Ken Havill, Principal

SENIOR MANAGEMENT TEAM (BACK L-R) Ivan Davis, Paul Alford, Karen Stimson www.westernsprings.school.nz (FRONT L-R) Lorrin Shortland, Ken Havill, Ruth Roberts, Chris Selwyn

ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT

Western Springs College 2015 WSC NCEA PASS RATES has a well-earned NATIONAL AND SAME DECILE COMPARISON reputation for outstanding % Roll Achieving Qualifications WSC NZ Decile 8-10 academic achievement within a safe, nurturing University Entrance (Year 13) 91% 65% learning environment. Level 3 (Year 13) 95% 75% Level 2 (Year 12) 92% 81% Western Springs College provides students and families with the Level 1 (Year 11) 88% 82% opportunity to experience a secondary education within • Western Springs College: Top NZ Decile 8 state secondary school a school community that for seven consecutive years. accurately reflects the diverse • Western Springs College: Top (first or second ranking) Auckland character of 21st century Auckland. region state secondary, 2009-2015. For whanau of Maori students, the Source for all statistics: www.nzqa.govt.nz College provides the opportunity to be educated within the rumaki – Nga Puna O Waiorea – the A CO-EDUCATIONAL COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP EXAMINATION Te Reo Maori immersion kura WHERE GIRLS EXCEL WSC students gained 22 Scholarships within the College. For many years female student in 2015, again well in excess of the With a roll of 1400 students achievement at Western Springs national rate. Springs remains small enough College has dispelled the myth that A notable and very encouraging to enable us to cater at a personal girls do not excel academically in feature was the achievement of five level for the individual needs a coeducational setting. The 2015 Outstanding Scholarships awards; of our students, but large enough University Entrance pass rate for WSC these top student awards were in the to offer a comprehensive range girls (95%) exceeded that for same- following subjects: Art Design (2); of subjects and extra-curricula decile girls’ schools (73%) by 22%. Calculus; Biology; and History. experiences. (The 2014 margin was 21%.) ...AND BOYS DO TOO! The subjects in which the most The WSC boys’ pass rate for Scholarships were gained were History (6); Biology (3); Dance (3) 5% University Entrance (88%) exceeded OTHER and Art Design (3). Other subjects 6% that for boys’ schools in the Decile ASIAN in which our students achieved 8-10 range (59%) by 29%; the margin 7% Scholarships were Media Studies (2); PASIFIKA has been over 20% for the last four Music; Physics; Classical Studies; years, 2012-2015. and English.

MAORI STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT In 2015, the certification pass rates for WSC Maori students were again outstanding: WSC Maori NZ Maori (Decile 8-10) U. E. 92% 56% Level 3 97% 71% Level 2 96% 82% Level 1 85% 79% 27% 55% MAORI PAKEHA COMING TO COLLEGE

ENROLMENTS Note: School finishes early on can be made with the staff in the Tuesdays, at 2:45p.m. to allow time school office. There are also subject Enrolments are governed by the for staff professional development. course fees to cover costs such as Ministry of Education enrolment materials and write-on work books. scheme. Details are included in the SCHOOL DONATIONS folder accompanying the prospectus, Parents/caregivers are asked to make an annual contribution to the DRESS AND on the college website and from the APPEARANCE school office. College’s funds to help provide for educational, cultural, social activities Western Springs College has no Enrolments begin after Open Week and health services not covered by formal uniform. The development of in June. Parents/caregivers who live government funding. sensible attitudes towards matters of in-zone should contact the school THE SCHOOL DONATION IS: dress and appearance is seen as part office to arrange an enrolment $370 if there is one student in the of the education process. interview time with the deputy family; or $470 if there are two or principal. Dress should be neat and appropriate more students from a family. for all school-related occasions. It is The Board of Trustees has decided School donations should be paid not acceptable for students to wear to accept no out-of-zone enrolments at the time of enrolment, or at clothing that is immodest, ripped for 2017. the beginning of the school year. or that has offensive messages. In SCHOOL DAY Payment can be made by cash, questions of acceptability of dress, The school day begins at 9:00 a.m. cheque or credit card. Arrangements the College’s decision will be final. and ends at 3:15 p.m. for automatic payment by instalment Parent support is expected. CURRICULUM AND ASSESSMENT

PUTTING CRITICAL, EVALUATIVE of very few secondary schools to competitions, sporting activities, AND CREATIVE THINKING have introduced a compulsory Maori social and environmental activism, CENTRE STAGE Studies course in our junior school. performances and exhibitions are At Western Springs College we We were one of the first schools integrated into learning programmes design our curriculum so that to develop a strong, thriving Media and essential to the way Springs opportunities for higher-level thinking Studies presence across all year students learn. Making connections are part of normal tasks and students levels, and we are perhaps the across and beyond subject are actively involved in their learning. only NZ state school to have boundaries gives meaning From Health to Dance, and from Arts introduced Philosophy as an to learning. to Statistics, we expect our students elective for all year levels. to be leading the debate, posing new Accelerated students have the CONNECTING WITH OUR questions, and generating solutions. opportunity to take a university paper COMMUNITY AND RESPONDING under the auspices of the University DIVERSE PATHWAYS TO STUDENT NEEDS of Auckland Young Scholars Our curriculum structure is designed Our Education for Sustainability programme or as a distance learner to keep the doors open for all course connects students with Waikato University. students to University Entrance (U.E.), directly with sustaining our local while also providing opportunities for environment. The strong focus of the PERSONALISING ASSESSMENT direct connections with the world of History Department on New Zealand The College’s most recent work. Performing Arts Technology, history develops students’ awareness external reviews have affirmed our Hospitality and Catering Courses are of their bicultural identity, rooted in insistence that assessment should examples of these opportunities, as a sense of place. The introduction reflect rather than drive learning. are First Aid and Diving qualifications. of Digital Technology and Chinese These reviews have applauded High student uptake in English and across all year levels is a recent our attempts to personalise Mathematics courses, right through instance of the college responding to assessment by allowing and to Year 13, helps to ensure our student and parental interest encouraging alternative forms of outstanding U.E. pass rate. and demand. assessment; assessing students when they are ready; developing AT THE FOREFRONT OF BEYOND THE CLASSROOM acceleration programmes; and CURRICULUM INNOVATION Our curriculum does not stop developing multiple pathways The College has led the way in at the classroom door. Trips though NCEA courses. curriculum innovation. We are one and visits, cultural events and

STUDENT SUPPORT

The college is organised and peer mentoring programmes, into five houses – Atea, individual and group learning- how- to-learn interventions, study skills and Kapura, Moana, Oranga examination technique workshops, and Whenua. Each has its and programmes for gifted and own Head of House who is talented students. responsible for the support CANTEEN and guidance of the Western Springs College encourages students in the form healthy eating habits amongst our students. There is available a classes in that house. selection of hot and cold food and drinks from breakfast time through to If you have a concern about any sports practice time in the afternoon. aspect of your child’s education, There is a covered courtyard Accelerated learning is made possible your initial point of contact should attached to the Canteen with picnic by multi-levelling whereby students be with the form teacher or with the tables for the students, making it a are able to study at a level suited to head of your child's house. Support hub of the school. staff will call home if there are any their ability. concerns about student progress or INDIVIDUALISED attendance. CAREERS CENTRE PATHWAYS Career education is about developing Form classes consist of students Our overriding concern at Springs each student’s career management from all year levels. This ‘vertical’ is that all students receive an skills through self-awareness, organisation of students encourages education which meets their needs. exploring possibilities, decision- friendships across ages and enables Whatever a student’s future, Western making and taking action. Given us to build a family atmosphere. Springs College strives to provide ever-changing work trends and the GUIDANCE AND COUNSELLING a successful pathway. need for career flexibility, students Our goal is to support students are prepared for the current work In the junior school (years 9 and so that they are fit and able to situation and also ongoing education 10), students move in core classes learn. Two counsellors provide a and life role changes. It also facilitates through the compulsory curriculum. confidential, easy-to-access service links between the College and the Core classes give students stability of which caters for all students. This community, employers, industry relationships. At Springs, year 9 and is a self-referral process, although and tertiary institutions. heads of houses and families may 10 classes are relatively small and recommend an appointment with a consist of students of mixed ability. The Centre’s range of services includes: counsellor. While there is some banding in HEALTH CENTRE (WAIORA) Mathematics, there is a strong • 1:1 career counselling Within a specialist adolescent health tradition of mixed ability teaching in • Gateway – work-based learning care service, this centre delivers the junior school. Our philosophy • Years 9 – 12 career programmes high quality nursing care. The nurse is that it is important to have high liaises with colleagues, families and expectations of all students, all of • An extensive library of career outside health providers, as well whom we believe to be intelligent resources for students exploring as carrying out a significant health in various ways. In our view it is future options indefensible and irresponsible to education role. The school-based • Regular career focus seminars physiotherapist provides treatment prematurely and inaccurately label • Facilitating attendance at for students each day of the week. students’ ability levels. interactive career workshops LEARNING CENTRE Catering for individual needs provided by tertiary and career The Learning Centre offers a is achieved in a variety of ways services comprehensive range of learning at Western Springs College. • Facilitating off-site career support programmes catering for all Differentiated teaching occurs within students at all levels. These include all junior classes. The Learning Centre exploration opportunities specialist help to address literacy has been designed to help students • CV preparation and interview and numeracy needs, peer reading plug gaps in their learning skills. assistance COLLEGE LIFE

CULTURE All students are encouraged to become involved in cultural groups. Nga Puna o Waiorea competes very successfully in the two main annual cultural festivals in Auckland. Other cultural groups representing some of the many ethnic groups that make up our college community perform at various college concerts and events throughout the year, such as the annual Fia Fia Night. PERFORMING ARTS Western Springs College has a well- deserved reputation for innovative school drama productions, devised musicals and multi-cultural events. Students have the opportunity to participate in the Sheilah Winn Shakespeare Festival, Stage Challenge (a student-led initiative involving years 9-13), and the school production. The Performing Arts Centre (TAPAC) provides a magnificent venue to support the creative talents of our dance, drama and music students. Technical aspects of theatre production are offered through the Performing Arts Technology courses in the senior school. MUSIC Active participation in music is the primary aim of the Music department. Performance of all styles of music is encouraged and students take part in events such as the talent quest, DEBATING are able to play, practice and choir, jazz band, assemblies, evening Debating is a popular extracurricular learn about chess as a social or a performances, visits to local schools, activity at Western Springs College. more competitive game. The club fundraisers, drama performances, Students who participate gain participates in the inter-secondary the Smokefree Rock Quest and confidence in public speaking and competition. the Auckland Secondary Schools’ learn to think on their feet. They also Orchestra and Band Festival. The extend their general knowledge and COLLEGE BALL music department staff are supported develop their analytical skills. Our The Western Springs College Ball by ten part-time tutors. Students have teams traditionally do very well in the is always a lot of fun and a chance the opportunity to participate in small inter-school competitions where we for students and staff to let their hair group instrumental tuition for flute, enter at junior, senior and advanced down (or put their hair up!). The Ball keyboard, piano, saxophone, clarinet, level. is held in the second or third term trumpet, trombone, cello, double CHESS CLUB each year. It is organised by the Ball bass, electric bass, drum kit, guitar, Many students enjoy the game Committee under the supervision violin, viola and voice. of chess. In Chess Club students of a Deputy Principal.

COMMUNICATION WITH HOME

Parents and caregivers • Four Records of Achievement are during a conducted tour prior to are an integral part of completed annually for each year arranging an enrolment interview. level, one in each term. their children’s education. • Enrolments at Western Springs are made by appointment through At Western Springs • Three full reports are completed annually for each level. Parent the college office. College we encourage teacher interviews follow the first • Parents and caregivers are communication between two reports. consulted about students’ home and school through • School newsletters are published courses. a variety of avenues: on the Monday of weeks 3, 6 and • There is ongoing contact 9 each term: they are emailed between form teacher, head of • An annual barbeque is held early to all homes and placed on the house and home via telephone or in Term 1 for new families and school website, newsletters are email. staff to acquaint themselves. It is also distributed on request in hard • Our website www.westernsprings. a relaxed, informal and friendly copy form from the school office. school.nz and the Parent Portal occasion. The first newsletter of the year is keeps parents informed of posted to parents in mid January. • Regular report evenings are held upcoming events. so that parents can meet teachers • Open Week is an opportunity • The school ultranet allows access to discuss each student’s progress for parents and their children – to daily notices so parents can and, where necessary, to establish current or prospective – to visit monitor school activities and direct, ongoing links. Details of the college during school hours, encourage their children to report evenings are included in meet staff, students and other participate in the wide range the report email-out. parents, and observe classes of opportunities available. CULTURAL DIVERSITY

MAORI TIKANGA striving towards achieving their INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS The marae is a vital part of the life of academic goals. Western Springs College welcomes the College and the local community. international fee-paying students. Maori tikanga (customs) and te reo Student academic success is We provide close individual attention Maori are accorded pride of place at enhanced by learning support and personal care for up to 100 Western Springs College. Both are through the Pasifika Homework international students from many integrated into formal ceremonies Centre and by celebratory events countries. At Springs we strive such as the senior prizegiving. such as the annual Fia Fia Cultural to ensure that our international Mainstream students study te reo Performance Night and the end-of- students are able to enjoy more Maori and tikanga Maori (language year Pasifika Prizegiving ceremony. of New Zealand’s language and and customs) on the marae. culture through integration into the The Pasifika Student Achievement mainstream student body. PASIFIKA Co-ordinator and the Board of Western Springs College strongly Trustees representative share a For further information please refer encourages Pasifika students to common vision for all Pasifika to the International Department over maintain their cultural links. One students to leave school with at the page. way of achieving this is to join a least an NCEA Level 2 Certificate Pasifika form class and be part of qualification and to be fully equipped a vertical (Years 9-13) group which for life beyond school. A key element honours Pasifika traditions and is community and parent support: values. The philosophy is one the Pasifika staff strive to ensure that of shared responsibility and contact between school and home fellowship supportive of students is maintained. INTERNATIONAL DEPARTMENT

WHY SELECT WESTERN SPRINGS COLLEGE?

1. Outstanding NCEA certification Dance, Music, Design & Visual 5. Opportunities to experience rates: First placed New Zealand Communication, Digital a multi-cultural environment; Decile 8* state school for seven Technology, Fabric Technology, international students at Springs consecutive years. First or and Food Technology. are from over ten nationalities. second placed Auckland region 3. A student leadership programme 6. Our superb location: 6 state school since 2009. *Same for international students is kilometres from CDB and decile schools are of similar aimed at enhancing personal the city waterfront, and social and economic structure. and leadership development situated within the popular 2. A reputation for strength in and supporting international recreational area of Western providing both students to participate in and Springs including its beautiful traditional and modern contribute to school life. lakeside park, Auckland Zoo curriculum subjects such 4. A wide range of sports and and Museum of Transport as Art Painting, Art Design, other extra-curricular activities Technology. Photography, Media, Drama, are on offer. Rujikorn Sinlapaorankul | Thailand – 16 years I feel at home at my homestay. I love PE and Art Design. The school is not too big, and I have lots of friends. The International Student Office organises many activities. They always try to help me. It is such a good country and good school where I can learn a lot.

Yukiko Hirate | Japan – 16 years Staying with a kiwi homestay is the best way to learn and get a taste of the NZ culture which is different from Japan. I am now more of a critical thinker, an independent teenager, and a confident learner. I like the business subjects such as Economics and Accounting, and I have achieved Merit or Excellence in all the subjects.

Camila Nogueira | Brazil – 16 years Here I can choose subjects that interest me: I learned professional dancing; I was trained to be a confident drama performer. I made a dress in Soft Material Technology class. We meet different people in each class. I feel so secure in New Zealand. I feel more independent. Being a student leader gave me pride and confidence. I developed my leadership and skills.

Josefina Aguiluz | Chile – 17 years Western Springs College has a great diversity of people who all respect each other. You can choose your subjects; and you can make many friends. I love History and Biology, Soft Materials Fashion Design and Food Technology. This is a valuable chance for me to learn English and experience the culture. I will benefit all my life.

Alexey Lavrov | Russia – 17 years Western Springs College is different from other schools. Here we don’t wear uniforms. Teachers are very nice. Although they didn’t force you to work hard, they always encourage students to do their best. I like Environmental Science and Music very much.

Kwon Nung Jang | Korea – 16 years I changed to Western Springs College from a high school in Dunedin, in the South Island of New Zealand. WSC is such a great school, where it is easier to have local and international friends. All WSC staff and teachers are nice. I find the teachers here are more instructive at class and providing quality teaching. My favourite subjects are History and Graphic Design. I enjoy playing rugby at school. Not wearing a uniform makes me feel more comfortable.

FEE INFORMATION YEAR LEVEL TUITION FEE REFERENCE: 1 Year...... $NZ 18,000.00 NCEA Level 3/Year 13: You will not One Term (Term 1, or Term 2, but not Term 3 or Term 4)...... $NZ 4,000.00 to be enrolled at Year 13 unless you have studied Year 12 at another Two Terms...... $NZ 8,000.00 New Zealand high school; special Three Terms...... $NZ 12,000.00 exceptions may be considered. (Students’ average age: 17-18 years old) Homestay Placement Fee (or Accomodation/Supervision Fee)... $NZ 350.00 NCEA Level 2/Year 12: (Students’ Administration Fee...... $NZ 1,000.00 average age: 16-17 years old) . Homestay Accommodation...... $NZ 280.00 per week NCEA Level 1/Year 11: (Students’ NCEA Exam Fees (Years 11, 12, &13)...... $NZ 385.00 average age: 15-16 years old).

Course Fee (Textbook & Workbook):...... $NZ 300.00 Years 10: (Students’ average age: 14-15 years old). Contingency Fee (refundable, for trips or emergency)...... $NZ 500.00 Year 9: (Students’ average age: (13-14). SUBJECTS PROVIDED CHOOSING SUBJECTS Western Springs College plans to provide the following subjects. Some All Year 11 (NCEA Level 1) students courses may not run due to small numbers of students choosing them: study English, Mathematics, Science Accounting, Art (Art Painting, Art Design, & Art History), Classical Studies, and three other subjects. All Year Dance, Drama, Economics, English, ESOL (English for Speakers of Other 12 (NCEA Level 2) students study Languages), Geography, Health, History, Languages (French, Japanese, & English and choose five other Chinese), Mathematics, Media Studies, Music, Performing Arts Technology, subjects. All Year 13 (NCEA Level 3) Philosophy, Physical Education, Science (Biology, Chemistry, & Physics), & students have one study period and Technology (Graphics design, Technology of Hard Materials, Technology of follow on from subjects that have Soft Materials, and Technology of Food). been studied at Year 12.

SCHOOL BRIEF PROFILE International International Uniform School Type School roll Student Accommodation students roll requirement nationalities

State 1423 110 10 No uniform Homestay only Co-educational

More update details available on school website: www.westernsprings.school.nz All airport pick-up and homestay placements are made by the school, with guardian service and after-hour support provided. Enrolment contact: Joanne Qiao, email: [email protected]

THE CODE: Western Springs INTERNATIONAL STUDENT ENROLMENT CALENDAR College has agreed to observe Term 1: End of January or beginning of February – Mid April and be bound by the Code of Practice for the Pastoral Care of Term 2: Late April or early May – Early July International Students published by the Ministry of Education. Term 3: Late July – late September Copies of the Code are available Term 4: Mid October – late November or early December on request from the College (depending on NCEA exam timetable for each subject) or from the New Zealand Qualifications Authority website Notes: New international students can usually be enrolled in January, July, at: www.nzqa.govt.nz and September for Year 11 and Year 12. STUDENT LEADERSHIP

At Springs student leadership development is a core priority. All students are encouraged to engage with and develop leadership skills through opportunities which are current, have a real-life focus and are actively supported by the school and local community.

We provide effective guidance and support in order to ensure a reflective approach to leadership development. At Springs we care about the emotional and physical well-being of our students, as well as caring for our environment. This is reflected within our student leadership team and student council. Student house leaders work closely with heads of house to ensure the overall well- being and success of students within their house community, while portfolio leaders work within the areas of sport, culture, academic progress, international relations and environmental sustainability.

ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY

Health Wise, Travel Wise Enviroschools, Waste Wise and Travel Students are provided with a range and Waste Wise leaders Wise coordinators from Auckland of opportunities, including a Wises Council and representatives from the Camp, in order to develop both all work cohesively to District Health Board, our students leadership skills and sustainability develop Springs as a have access to a wide range of know-how. experiences and skills. sustainable environment. At Springs we pride ourselves in Wises leaders work closely with the developing young leaders who Supported by the research team from corresponding Wises Panel. Each of are well-informed, passionate and the Department of Psychology at the three Wises panels consists of proactive. the University of Auckland, as well as students from across all year levels.

SPORTS AT WSC

The sports programme at Western Springs College is under the leadership of well known Sports Director, Peter McIntyre. Under Peter’s auspices Springs students participate in a comprehensive range of intersecondary school sports competitions.

Sports teams represent the College in 26 sports: tennis, volleyball, cricket, touch, water polo, athletics, swimming, dragon boating, softball, triathlon, waka ama, diving, cross country, netball, soccer, rugby, rugby league, hockey, basketball, lacrosse, table tennis, badminton, squash, orienteering, sailing and skiing. Additionally, the Sports Director is encourage all students to participate able to cater for a wide range of for enjoyment, to show commitment individual sporting pursuits through and respect, and to play hard but fair. the Auckland Regional College Sport SPORTS ACADEMY Programme. Academy programmes are designed AWARDS to advance the development of Our top sports people are honoured students who excel in their chosen at the annual college sports awards sport(s) and provide the opportunity dinner. to gain the knowledge and skills to lead, manage and coach others. FACILITIES In addition to the gymnasium and The programmes seek to motivate sports fields, students have access students to aspire to reach their to an all-weather, multi-sport turf full potential both in their sport and complex and the sports centre which their academic performance. The is the venue for the Sports Academy Sports Academy offers programmes classes. for students at all year levels. Entry is through a process of application COACHING and selection. Special programme A specially designated Board fund features include: is used to employ coaches in high demand sports such as netball, water • Leadership Strategies polo, basketball, soccer and cricket. Achievement Standards PARTICIPATION • Open Water (or Intermediate) We believe there are enormous Dive Certificate benefits for students who participate • Intermediate First Aid and Sports in sport. At Springs there are Injury Management Certificates many opportunities to participate in competitive sports teams. We • Competition in the Auckland uphold the Fair Play Charter and we Secondary Schools Triathlon.