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A wholehearted, nurturing environment

Middle School

Year 7-10

(10 - 15 year olds)

Big changes happen in the Middle School years and it’s our job to support our students academically, pastorally and socially as they embark on their journey towards adulthood. Our Middle School offers structure and stability, as well as an environment in which students can explore and pursue their unique talents, setting them on a path to reach their learning potential.

 

Our structure is different to many New Zealand schools. We believe there is great benefit in keeping our students together for these four Middle School years. It allows them to develop a better sense of belonging and purpose over these pivotal years of development while also establishing a solid foundation for Senior School.

 

Kristin Middle School offers many opportunities for students in areas such as leadership, technology, languages, arts and outdoor education.  A coaching support system provides personalised support so our students can flourish. An annual school camp is a highlight and helps students to build confidence and supportive friendships.

 

Kate Pollard
Middle School Principal

Deepening bonds and broadening horizons 

 

Engagement and challenge are at the heart of learning in the Kristin Middle School. Students are offered varied, dynamic and developmentally appropriate learning experiences, with a focus on academic rigour and personal excellence.

Our foundations for learning in Middle School

Providing a holistic approach to education – not just classroom academia.

Specialist teachers to provide deeper learning opportunities.

A meaningful curriculum based on the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP).

Small class sizes for more one-on-one support and extension from teachers.

Curriculum

Engagement and challenge are at the heart of learning in the Middle School. All students follow the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP),  an inquiry-based curriculum where every unit of work begins with a question. For example, "Is Language Power?" With this approach, students immediately understand the relevance of what they are learning and find it more engaging. The curriculum is relevant, challenging, integrative and exploratory. It is also very adaptable so that teachers can differentiate learning to meet the individual needs of each student.

The IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) encourages students to understand the connections between subject disciplines and the real world and to become knowledgeable, critical and reflective thinkers.

 

Distinctive features of the MYP include:

 

  • Students develop global thinking and cultural understanding through a focus on themes including relationships, sustainability, innovation, fairness and development
  • Students establish a foundation to manage their own learning in the classroom and the world beyond
  • Service as Action - learners strive to be caring members of the community who demonstrate a commitment to service, making a positive difference to the lives of others and to the environment

  • Language learning - students are required to learn at least two languages; their mother tongue and one other
  • Interdisciplinary learning

Interdisciplinary learning is a fundamental aspect of the Middle Years Programme (MYP) because it equips students with the ability to integrate knowledge from multiple disciplines, fostering a deeper understanding of complex issues. This approach encourages students to make connections between subjects, enhancing their critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which are essential in today's interconnected world. By engaging in interdisciplinary projects, students learn to collaborate effectively, think creatively, and apply their knowledge in real-world contexts, preparing them for future challenges and promoting lifelong learning. Ultimately, this method enriches the educational experience by providing a holistic view of knowledge that transcends traditional subject boundaries.

The Middle Years Programme (MYP) is a holistic learning programme that promotes academic excellence and aims to develop students with responsible attitudes who take principled action. The focus on developing independent learning makes it the ideal preparation for the IB Diploma Programme.
Students in Year 7 and 8 are required to follow a set programme and are offered choices as option subjects in Year 9 and 10.
  • Arts - Visual/Drama/Music/Dance
  • English
  • Health
  • Individuals and Societies
  • Language Acquisition 
(Chinese, French or Spanish)
  • Mathematics
  • Physical Education/Sport
  • Science
  • Technology Design
Core Subjects
  • Art
  • Consumer Economics
  • Dance
  • Digital Design
  • Drama
  • Enterprising Economics
  • Future Problem Solvers
  • Materials Product Design
  • Music
  • Outdoor Education
  • Sport Studies
  • Textiles/Food Product Design
  • Visual Design
Option Available
  • English
  • Individuals and Societies
  • Mathematics
  • Science
  • Arts
  • Music/Art/Dance/Drama
  • Physical Education/Sport
  • Language Acquisition 
(Chinese, French or Spanish)
  • Health
  • BASE
  • Technology Design
  • Food Design