We hope that your time with us brings much satisfaction and to fill your days,  we aim to provide a rich smorgasbord of tasty and varied learning experiences that will challenge, engage and inspire you to be the best you can be!

As with the year 8 classes, we have 4 syndicates where you get a chance to develop as a learning family- sort of like a ‘school within a school’. There is Syndicate A, B, C and D. Three syndicates are made up of 4 classes and one is of 3.

The first term is spent finding out about life at Somerville and all the varied programmes, that are available to the students, such as in sports, dance, drama, Taha Maori cultural group, choir, orchestra, financial, leadership, debates, extension and support programmes, talent shows; the opportunities are vast and there is something for everyone to shine in!

In term one, each syndicate introduces their own ALJ (authentic learning journey). An authentic Learning Journey provides opportunities for students to be involved in real life learning, and this learning is created around a ‘rich and fertile question’ such as “is Peace possible in our generation?”

Students are also introduced to the Technology and Specialist subjects that they will be involved in. These are:

• Hard Materials 
• Specialist Science 
• Graphics and Design 
• Food Technology 
• Art 
• Music
• Dance and Drama 

In term two, a huge highlight is the annual Year 7 camp where each syndicate gets to go away to Motutapu island camp for an entire week of team building and outdoor activities. I am totally convinced it is the best camp in the world! By Friday, students coming back from Motutpau camp are buzzing with all the thrill and challenges that they have mastered. A lifetime memory for sure!

In every 2nd year, we have the much anticipated school production (term 3) where students, with an interest in performance get to shine on stage and dazzle the audiences; a wonderful opportunity where we see such talent! The alternate year we host a ‘street party’ where the community is invited to participate in and celebrate a range of Somerville mini shows that again, showcase our talented students. There is food and fun to add to the mix. to make it a great night! Science fair and speeches are also a highlight of this busy term.

In term 4 there is an air of excitement as each syndicate busily prepares for their ALJ evenings, where they showcase all the wonderful learning and experiences that have gone on. Before we know it, the year of the year is upon us and so too, the anticipation of more challenges in Year 8....