Junior (Years 1 to 6)
The Junior School at Diocesan covers the years of primary education from Years 1-6 (5-11 year olds) and it provides all the pre-requisites for the development of a life-long love of learning. The classroom teachers, specialist tutors and support staff are all of exceptional quality. They are dedicated and enthusiastic and they deliver an innovative curriculum in a warm, inspirational environment.
The standard of teaching in the Junior School is outstanding The teachers teach only in the Years 1-6 area; and they are dedicated to, and specialise in, the learning styles of this age group. Each class has a home-room teacher and there are specialist teachers in Music, Art, Physical Education, Health, Drama, French, and Science and Technology. Junior School students have their own orchestra, a chamber music group, three choirs, recorder and tone chime groups and there are over 20 representative sports groups. All students, right from Year One, are included in the school’s House system. We believe that when students acquire new competencies they build self-esteem and confidence, as well as developing critical thinking and evaluation skills. Our students learn how to learn, in a dynamic and supportive environment.
The New Zealand curriculum framework is the foundation of the Junior School curriculum. The essential learning areas are: language and languages; mathematics; science; technology; social sciences; the arts and health and physical well-being.
The Junior School runs a gifted and talented programme, the Copernicus Programme, which provides a variety of activities for all age groups.
The Junior School building contains 14 year-level classrooms, an art room, a music room, science and technology rooms, a hall, music studios, a modern library and a computer room. Students learn to work both independently and in groups and we attach great importance to courtesy, service and concern for others. We aim to equip our students with the fundamental skills essential for academic work, while encouraging creativity and practical abilities.
Diocesan is currently seeking authorisation to offer the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (PYP) in the Junior School. The PYP uses an inquiry model approach to learning, encouraging students to ask their own questions, consider alternative points of view and explore areas which interest them. Students are then encouraged to make connections between their experience and the new information they encounter and then have time for reflection and consolidation. The PYP helps students use analytical and critical thinking skills; tools that enhance life-long learning.