Kaupapa Ihitanga
Extension Programmes
At Maidstone we have extensions in numerous areas in which ākonga need to meet a certain criteria and then will be nominated by their kaiako to apply. Kaiako can also apply themselves and complete trials if they are interested.
Maths and Science
The Maths and Science Academy offers ākonga the opportunity to explore a range of concepts that require a deeper level of thinking.
Ākonga are able to influence the choices of their learning tasks. The concepts are often taught via a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematical) focus. Ākonga in this Academy also have the opportunity to participate in a range of different competitions. Some examples are Otago problem solving, Hutt Valley STEM Competition and Aquabots.
MAD (Maidstone Athletic Development)
At the start of every year, the MAD Academy group of ākonga is selected. This is a very talented group of young people who have already shown that they are excellent athletes. To be selected, ākonga must complete an application process that includes both physical and mental challenges along with a written application, detailing all of their strengths. The group is diverse with athletes competing in many different sports and activities. MAD ākonga pay a fee to cover activities and can look forward to the following:
- A competitive environment where everyone is supportive and aspires to become a better athlete.
- Exposure to a variety of sports and physical activities.
- Sessions with sports professionals from the wider community.
- Weekly sessions where they will learn new skills and knowledge in sports science, nutrition, game strategy, specific skills and much more.
- Leadership opportunities in school and the community.
- Access to elite training and skill development.
- EOTC trips focusing on improving and developing the ākonga as athletes and as people.
- An awesome MAD t-shirt that can be worn as part of the ākonga PE uniform.
Literacy
The Literacy Academy offers ākonga an opportunity to dig deeper into areas of interest. Developing further as a critical reader and a skilful writer are central to what we do.
Depending on the particular skills and interests individual ākonga bring with them each year, topics may include:
- Journalism (investigate/research, write, and report for publication)
- Propaganda (how and why people persuade and are persuaded)
- Myths, folklore, legends, and fables (identify and critique moral purpose within the literature)
- The film, art, and performance critique (review and recommend).
Mātauranga Māori
This group of ākonga is selected through an application process for those wanting to extend their Māori knowledge in all areas including Te Reo Māori, Mahi Toi, marae, Tikanga, whakapapa/pēpeha, waiata – to mention a few. This is a full-year commitment.
William Pike
The William Pike Challenge (WPC) is an outdoor based programme that Maidstone Intermediate is involved in. One of the major aims of the WPC is to showcase the outdoors as a powerful tool for building confidence, resilience, life long skills and for the development of personality and character within an individual. There are three key components which ākonga are required to take part in throughout the year:
There are three key components which ākonga are required to take part in throughout the year:
- Complete at least 20 hours worth of community service hours.
- Complete at least 20 hours worth of ‘Passion Projects.’ A passion project is learning a new skill or hobby which ākonga have not taken part in before.
- Ākonga take part in five outdoor activities which are at least two hours in length and are challenging in nature.
Whaiwhia te kete mātauranga - Fill the basket of knowledge
Kaupapa Matanga
Masterchef
Are you ready to unleash your inner chef? Join us for a hands-on culinary experience like no other.
Our MasterChef Class for Year 8 ākonga is designed to ignite your passion for cooking while honing your skills in the kitchen. In this fun-filled class, ākonga will have a chance to learn from experienced chefs, invent new recipes and compete against each other while also learning essential knife skills and cooking techniques to experiment with flavours and create delicious dishes. This programme will take your cooking abilities to the next level.Trash To Treasure
At Maidstone, we encourage the ākonga to be kaitiakitanga.
In Trash to Treasure we create objects of beauty from scraps in our recycling bins. Products made are then sold at various kura events. We take a look at the financial literacy that is needed for a small business.Toi Whānau
Ākonga that are identified in Year 7 as having passion and skill in Visual Arts will be selected to collaborate on artworks to bring life and light to our kura. The kura will assign projects for the ākonga through the creative process. They will further extend their ability to create art for competitions and exhibitions.STEAM Crew
A group tailored for ākonga at level 5 and above in New Zealand. Here, participants have the unique opportunity to delve into and cultivate their individual interests, fostering a dynamic and personalised learning environment.Performing Arts
At Maidstone there are many wonderful opportunities for extension in the Performing Arts. The groups are set each year guided by the interests of the ākonga. Examples of the extension groups that we have enjoyed are Dance Troupe, Acting Troupe and Film Making.