Strong foundations
Targeted English and mathematics teaching builds confident communicators and the foundations for success across all learning areas.
Curriculum: choice and challenge
Learning designed for the middle years
Purposeful, engaging learning for emerging adolescents.
At Berkley, our curriculum is designed to meet the unique needs of Year 7–9 students. It is balanced, future-focused and promotes critical thinking and creativity.
Students develop confidence and capability through meaningful learning that connects ideas, encourages inquiry and celebrates curiosity. Choice and ‘Take Up the Challenge’ ensure every learner is supported and inspired.
Designed for growth
A curriculum for growth
Our programmes challenge students to think deeply, work collaboratively and take ownership of their learning.
Connected learning
Subjects are designed to connect real-world contexts with classroom learning.
Choice and challenge
Enrichment opportunities and extension pathways help students pursue passions, build strengths and aim high.
See learning in action
The week that was at Berkley
Projects, celebrations and everyday learning, seen through our students’ eyes.
Berkley TV’s weekly round-up captures the learning, celebrations and everyday moments that fill a school week.
Berkley TV The Week That Was · Term 3, Week 10
Relationships that help students thrive
Known by a teacher. Taught by specialists.
Strong homeroom and specialist learning.
At Berkley, students are more than a name. Our homeroom model ensures every student has a trusted teacher who knows them well and supports their growth, while specialist learning opens doors to wider opportunities.
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The strength of homeroom
Homeroom teachers build strong relationships with students and families, providing consistent care and guidance that supports learning, wellbeing and confidence.
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Specialist learning
Students learn with specialist teachers in areas including science, technology, the arts, physical education, languages and other practical learning areas — from Food Technology and Materials Technology to Drama.
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Spaces for every kind of learning
Homeroom classrooms, specialist rooms, the Rec Centre, performing arts spaces, technology areas, science facilities, the library and outdoor spaces.
A broad and balanced learning experience
Curriculum areas
Eight learning areas help students build strong foundations, explore their interests and discover new passions.
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English
Building strong literacy skills through reading, writing, speaking and listening to communicate with confidence and clarity.
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Mathematics
Developing number sense, problem solving and logical thinking to make sense of the world around us.
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Science
Exploring the natural world through inquiry, experimentation and real-world applications that spark curiosity.
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Social sciences and Aotearoa histories
Understanding people, places, cultures and events to develop informed, thoughtful and active global citizens.
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The arts
Encouraging creativity, expression and imagination across visual arts, music, drama, dance and media.
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Technology
Designing and creating solutions through digital technologies, materials, food and innovative thinking.
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Health and physical education
Promoting hauora through movement, health education and positive choices for life.
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Languages and cultural learning
Valuing te reo Māori and other languages and cultures to build identity, respect and connection.
Learning and wellbeing together
Confident, compassionate learners
A curriculum that opens minds, builds capabilities and develops compassionate, confident learners.
Learning and wellbeing are connected. Students do their best learning when they feel known, supported, challenged and included.
- Confidence
- Independence
- Resilience
- Teamwork
- Curiosity
- Communication
- Responsibility
- Pride in themselves and their school
Assessment and reporting
Seeing progress, planning next steps
Assessment helps students, teachers and whānau understand where each learner is, celebrate growth and plan what comes next.
Questions about progress?Your child’s homeroom teacher is the best first point of contact.
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Knowing every learner
Homeroom teachers develop a deep understanding of each student’s strengths and next steps.
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Targeted support
Learning is adjusted to each student’s next steps, including English language support through our English Language Learner (ELL) programme.
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Talking about learning
Student learning conversations help students share their progress and goals with teachers and whānau.
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Reporting twice a year
Twice-yearly reports help students reflect on their learning, understand their next steps and celebrate growth.
Student voice
In their words
Real students. Real opportunities. Hear what Berkley students enjoy most about their learning.
What I enjoy most are the Tech and Arts classes, because they help develop useful skills. In Food Tech you learn to cook safely, in Materials Tech you use tools, and in Drama you build confidence.
Teachers here make you feel comfortable to ask questions. You flourish — not just academically, but socially.
Keep exploring
More ways to take up the challenge
Learning at Berkley continues well beyond the classroom.
Year 9
Explore Year 9
Create
Explore the arts
Outdoors
Explore outdoors
PDF · 2027
View prospectus ↗ (opens in a new tab)
Year 9: Continue the Journey
A purposeful final year of middle schooling with leadership, specialist teaching and a strong finish.
Performing Arts & Technology
Opportunities to perform, create and collaborate on stage, behind the scenes and in the music room.
Outdoor Education
Camps and outdoor experiences that build confidence, resilience and teamwork.
Berkley Prospectus 2027
Everything prospective students and families need to know about Berkley.
Take the next step
Come and see Berkley
The rest can only be felt in person.
The best way to understand Berkley is to experience it — to see our learning spaces, meet our people and get a feel for what makes the school such a special place to belong, grow and succeed.