At Cambridge Middle School we believe that young adolescents learn best when they are engaged and motivated. Our school embraces a conceptual curriculum and an inquiry learning cycle that aim to spark curiosity and interest in the world around them. Our curriculum allows students to deepen their understanding of curriculum areas by applying their knowledge and skills through a school-wide concept. Through our curriculum we look for opportunities to localise learning and tell important local stories that will connect our students to their wha_nau, peers and their place in our world. We aim to connect our students to their learning and their community, inspire them to engage in deep learning, and support them to grow into well-rounded, thriving global citizens.

Our conceptual approach, combined with strong structured Mathematics and Literacy programmes, support our students to become skilled learners across the curriculum.

We encourage the development of resilience and a growth mindset. Risk takers require a comprehensive safety net and our PH4L approach to student welfare and our value of Happiness, where identity is valued and students feel cared for and safe, provides this. Our value of Opportunity challenges all students to look out for experiences that will allow them to find out more about their potential and we encourage students to show initiative. You and your child are encouraged to be actively involved on a four year journey that has the ability to make a significant difference in their life.

The majority of learning areas will be taught in a student’s homeroom setting. Through our value of Excellence we encourage students to pursue their personal best. Throughout the year students will also have the opportunity to rotate through six specialist teaching areas: Design Thinking, Visual Art, Food Technology, Drama, Music and Science.

Our value of Relationships nurtures the bicultural and multicultural nature of New Zealand society by valuing diversity and celebrating the uniqueness of each student. We provide opportunities for students to build their knowledge of te reo me ōna tikanga Māori throughout their time here. All students have the opportunity to participate in our Kapa Haka rōpu where they will learn traditional and modern waiata, poi, actions, and our school haka. We value connections with all students’ whānau and actively encourage them to be involved in the school community and with their child’s learning. Whānau Hui are held during the year to further strengthen the bond between home and school to ensure that we hear the voices of our community.