Science, Technology and Arts
Food Technology
We have a spacious and well equipped Food Technology room which is well used by students. Students learn how to cook nutritious meals using many different ingredients. They are taught about the economics of buying and selling baked goods, and the art of preserving. Students are taught the importance of hygiene and this is maintained to a high standard.
Materials Technology
The Materials Technology Department essentially covers the two main facets of the programme. These being materials technology and computer based technology.
Materials technology incorporates the more traditional aspects of technology such as copper, silversmithing, plastics and wood based projects. Computer based technology includes CAD (computer aided design) which introduces a design and pictorial based computer programme, and newly purchased laser cutter for creating more complex projects.
The Technology programme allows for a “hands on” approach and ensures students facilitate their own learning with one to one support. It is designed to ensure students succeed at their own pace and therefore successfully complete projects to their full potential.
Science
Our science laboratory is bright, clean, well resourced and a motivating environment to work in.The science programme is divided into two parts. Part one is classroom programmes around the Living World, Physical World and the Planet Earth and Beyond.
Hands on programmes are designed to enable students to scaffold their learning and enable success to be achieved. The Material World is Part Two in the Science Laboratory.
A seperate Year 7 and Year 8 programme is implemented. Through experimental work they explore separating and combining solids and liquids, fair test, reactions and appropriate recording techniques. They also learn how to use a microscope understanding what makes an experiment and how they could alter the outcome, and the appropriate handling of chemicals, investigating acids and alkalis.
The school is part of the biennial whole school Science Fair which has students involved at the Regional Science Fair at Pettigrew Arena.
ART
This programme is designed to build on and extend students’ basic art skills. We have an attractive, well-equipped room that features a print workshop with two presses. Students have the opportunity to work with an artist in residence each year and to take part in exhibitions, workshops and extension classes.
MUSIC
Heretaunga Intermediate provides a wide range of musical and cultural activities. All students are given the opportunity to develop and extend their talents with emphasis on singing, instrumental activities, listening activities and musical knowledge. In weekly music slots all students learn keyboard, ukulele, music theory and history. Students are also involved in song writing and composition. Apple computers play an important part in the music programme with composition being carried out either directly on these or through the use of electronic music keyboards connected to the computers.