As with all New Zealand Schools, the curriculum is set by the Government. We are required to teach the following essential areas of curriculum:
Literacy & Numeracy
Our mornings at Concord are focused on both literacy and numeracy. Students achieve to a high standard in both these key learning areas. Often in the senior classes our current topic is also integrated into reading and writing. The teachers know where each child is working at, and they use a range of programmes and tools to support their learning
In March 2024 we held a parent evening to share the changes that we have made to our literary programme over the last two years, the structured literacy approach, and examples of how whānau can support their child/ren with literacy.
.../files/1712089768_Concord Staff & Whānau Literacy sessions.pdf
Digital Technology
Digital technology is integrated throughout curriculum areas. The junior classes use iPads while the senior classes use chromebooks. We teach students the tools to become responsible digital citizens and the confidence and capability to use a variety of educational programmes.
Cultural & The Arts
At Concord we offer broad and rich cultural and artistic experiences. These include Kapa Haka, Polyfest, Matariki celebrations, Ukulele Jam, visiting performers, school production, school singing and child led assemblies.
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Sport & Physical Education
At weekly assemblies we celebrate students who have gained Player of the Day awards and/or achievements in their chosen activities in and outside of school.
All students are involved in weekly sports activities at school for physical education. We have school teams that compete in sports such as futsal, touch, netball and basketball after school. Throughout the year we also compete in Greater Green Island Cluster events such as the triathlon, cross country and athletics. If you have a particular skill or interest in coaching a sport please contact your child’s teacher.
Swimming lessons are provided by professional instructors for all children. Transport by bus and tuition in the pool are provided free of charge. The junior students go to a local school pool, while the senior students go to Moana Pool.
Education Outside the Classroom (EOTC)
Every year the Year 6 students go on camp for five days. Activities are designed to build on skills, knowledge and attitudes. Year 5 students also have a three day camp, and Year 4’s have an overnight trip, usually a sleepover at the Otago Museum.
There is a cost for each child to participate in their camp. The school seeks to keep costs to a minimum. Fundraising activities may also be run, involving both children and parents, to keep costs down. Your child will bring full information home in the lead-up to these exciting experiences, along with an invitation for you to participate with them.
All classes go on regular trips to local providers related to the current topic. Examples of these are Toitu, Otago Museum, Dunedin Art Gallery, The Otago Marine Centre and the Beverly Begg Observatory. We have a Big Day Out at the start of the year where the whole school go out and do something fun locally.
Concord School uses PLAY IS THE WAY® to teach social and emotional skills through guided play, classroom activities and an empowering language. It is a process that gives our school a way to develop, improve and entrench the personal and social capabilities of our tamariki.
Key concepts explored during Play Is The Way guide children through life and learning as they are based on a philosophy of behaviour education and student self-regulation that fosters independent, self-motivated, empathetic, life-long learners.
The basis of Play Is The Way lies within these five life rafts that we discuss at assemblies and throughout our week:
- Have reasons for the things you say and do
- Be Brave - participate to progress
- Treat other as you would like them to treat you
- Be the master, not the victim of your feelings
- Pursue your personal best no matter who you work with
- It takes great strength to be sensible