Agriculture and Horticulture Department
Junior Horticulture
Junior Horticulture is a half year option subject. The goal of the courses is to introduce students to the wonderful world of Agriculture and Horticulture in New Zealand, and setting them up for taking the subject in the senior school.
For Year 9's, the concept behind the course is "becoming self-sufficient on a town property". Students learn how to grow plants from seeds, maintain a vegetable garden, and we have a quick look into raising chickens. Plant structure, and an introduction into the Agriculture industry is also covered.
Year 10 Hort takes the Year 9 course a step further, and looks into self-sufficiency on a small lifestyle block, so the topics of bee-keeping and keeping pet sheep is introduced, as well as advanced propagation by cuttings.
The Level 1 AgHort course
Students are given a solid background into Horticulture and Agriculture in New Zealand.
The course has a practical work component, and aims to give school leavers an interest in Agriculture and Horticulture and the skills and knowledge to be useful workers in the industry.
Students will learn both Agriculture and Horticulture content, and will be able to choose one (of two studied) Achievement Standards to sit in the November examinations. The course has one internal NCEA assessment.
Course information booklet here.
The Level 2 AgHort course
For students more interested in foreman or manger roles in the industry, Year 12 Horticulture will provide the knowledge required to be a decision maker. Students will be able to explain how management practices increase the productivity of a crop, and are expected to be able to justify choosing one option over the other.
The course is made up of two Horticulture based, and two Agriculture based Achievement Standards. A total of 16 credits is available in the course.
Course information booklet here.
The Level 3 AgHort course
Year 13 Horticulture is primarily focused on Agribusiness, and students are able to study in both the Horticulture and/or Agriculture context.
There is no emphasis on practical work, and students are expected to show an interest in the global and local current events to explain changes in production costs and management decisions.
Consideration of the environment, and application of abstract thought are required for student success at this level.
Level 3 Horticulture is an NCEA approved subject, and can be used to meet University Entrance requirements.
Course information booklet here..