The Switch Project
Why….
Our students are entering a different world to that of their parents and teachers with new job and learning opportunities. These opportunities need students that can think deeply about issues, solve problems creatively, communicate clearly in a variety of media, learn ever-changing technologies, and deal with multiple sources of information. Most importantly, these opportunities need students who can adapt thoughtfully to different situations and take ownership of their learning and actions. It is with these opportunities in mind that we are introducing The Switch Project in 2019.
What is The Switch Project?
Students in The Switch Project undertake four strands of learning which will integrate English, Mathematics, Science, Health, Technology, Arts and Social Studies. Rather than covering these learning areas in discrete subjects, they will be combined in the four following strands: Community Action, Creative Design, Problem Solving and Future Studies.
The diagram below shows how the four strands combine together with the New Zealand Curriculum.
The Switch Project aims to encompass the principles of the NZ curriculum.
- Encourages Learning to Learn - being able to reflect on their own learning processes and how to learn.
- Promoting Community Engagement - connecting with their wider lives, and engages the support of families, whānau and community
- Coherence - which provides links across the learning areas and pathways for further learning.
- Future Focus - encouraging students to look to the future, exploring issues such as sustainability, citizenship, enterprise and globalisation.
Who are we….
Passionate teachers working together with passionate learners
Specialised teachers have been selected across the learning areas to form The Switch Project teaching team. They have been selected for their abilities to integrate learning and inspire all learners to achieve success in learning achievement and well-being. Teachers collaborate to design and teach each of the four SWITCH strands and ensure that all learners are engaged in meaningful learning.
NCEA and beyond
Students have the option to continue with The Switch Project in Year 10, and beyond. The course is designed so that students wishing to move back into a more traditionally structured course could do so at the end of Year 9 as they will have still covered the essential learning in those in the mainstream at WGHS.
Students who participate in The Switch Project will be passionate life long learners who:
- Make a difference
- Look to the future
- Find and solves problems
- Imagines, designs and creates
- Take responsible risks
- Is a change leader
- Collaborates with shared purpose
- Communicates effectively
- Innovates and disrupts
- Meaningfully uses exponential technologies
Assessment
The purpose of assessment is to measure learning and progress. Students in The Switch Project will be assessed against learning outcomes derived from level 5 of the NZ curriculum. The way they are assessed may be different with a focus on innovative ways of demonstrating learning. All students will maintain an e-portfolio of evidence as part of the four The Switch strands.
Is this a gifted and talented programme?
This programme is designed for learners of all abilities. Any students with a passion for learning in an innovative learning environment are welcome to apply for entry (see “Is The Switch Project for me?” below).
How will my time be spent?
Students will spend approx 20 hours a week in the four Switch Strands. For the remainder of the time they will have two hours of PE. Students in the switch project learn alongside other Year 9 students in a range of options subjects and mixed year level groups at whānau time.
Use of technology
All students in Year 9 and 10 are required to have a digital device to enhance their learning. Innovative use of technology will be a key feature of the The Switch Project.
Is The Switch Project for me?
- I have an interest in the future and futuristic thinking
- I am interested in making a difference in my community
- I like learning things in different or unique ways
- I like working collaboratively with others
- I like problem solving and finding new problems to solve
- I would like to choose how I experience my learning
Further information...
There are limited spaces available for this programme in 2019. Any students who wish to be considered for entry need to complete The Switch Project application form (available in your enrolment pack) and return to the office or email to [email protected] by *27 September 2018.*
An application form can be downloaded from the WGHS website
For questions not covered here please email: