Marsden's rigorous future-focused NCEA+ learning programme at Year 11 combines NCEA Level 1 and innovative courses. Students will be encouraged to take English, Mathematics and Science, and two further options, plus self-select a bespoke course across overarching future-focused themes while still earning credits.
The context for these bespoke courses are chosen from:
• Identity, Belonging and Expression | Whanaungatanga
• Entrepreneurship | Rakahinonga
• Sustainability | Kaitiakitanga
These contexts explore personal, local and global perspectives, preparing our students for the future world of work.
Our innovative course offerings hold structure, come with specialist teacher expertise and support, and successfully equip learners with the 21st-century skills they need to successfully navigate a rapidly changing world, including critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, digital fluency and problem-solving.
Across the Level 1 programme, students gain essential time management strategies and study skills. They learn to unpack and follow task instructions and experience examinations for the first time.
In Year 11, our students agree they are ready for a step up to assessment at this stage in their learning and seek an additional challenge. Our senior students tell us they found it motivating to have a goal to work towards in Year 11. NCEA Level 1 is an excellent foundation for the more in-depth study that will follow in Level 2 and beyond.
Our refreshed offering is based on the premise that ‘learning cannot be left to chance’ while ensuring that our students are fully equipped for NCEA Level 2, NCEA Level 3 and the world of future education and work.
In Year 11 the focus for academic study is NCEA Level 1. We offer personalised and inclusive programmes that aim to challenge and meet the needs of students of all ability levels. Year 11 is about building on foundational learning, developing great study habits and being open to exploring new ideas and future-focused learning. You will study five traditional subject courses. You will also choose from our unique NCEA+ offering, which is an innovative, interdisciplinary course. You will select up to three different subject areas and explore a real-world context where you can work collaboratively, think critically, and earn credits on the NZQA framework.
Jenny Caldwell
While some schools have opted to forego NCEA Level 1 in favour of their own diplomas, Marsden School has designed a rigorous future-focused learning programme ‘NCEA+’, which combines NCEA Level 1 and innovative courses.
Marsden students consistently achieve outstanding academic results, reflecting expert teaching, individualised support, and a proactive approach to wellbeing. These elements form the foundation for success, empowering students to reach their full potential.
We offer a range of scholarships for new and current students across academic, sport, arts, Māori & Pasifika and general excellence.