Social Studies

In Social Studies, students learn about people, places, cultures, histories and the economic world within and beyond New Zealand. Social Studies helps students understand people by exploring different points of view and beliefs. Students are given opportunities to develop communication, critical thinking and decision-making skills. These attributes help students become responsible and informed individuals with the ability to analyse the world that surrounds them. The course for each student is developed in consultation with the teacher to meet their particular needs and interests.

What this course involves

In this course, students investigate issues in society and the interactions between cultures both within New Zealand and globally. Topics have a past, present and future focus.

The course is based around five overarching themes: connections, accessibility, organisation, survival and movement. Within these themes, students study topics such as sustainability, human rights, cultural diversity and enterprise. Students investigate how change affects New Zealand cultures, societies and communities, which helps them understand the past and the present and to imagine possible futures.

Students are given starting modules but are encouraged to choose modules by personal interest, passions, and links to other subject concepts and themes.