A student’s view – Hugo Buchan Six months into the Diploma
be flexible and open to what they bring to us. That’s a big thing. We provide examples but we want the boys to be able to say how they believe these activities reflect the various elements. “It is how they develop their character, and how they contribute to the community.” Nicole explains that with the Diploma, “the boys sometimes underestimate the reputation of Christs’ College” and what the Diploma will mean in the future. “We are setting the standard that will go forth and mean a great deal in the future.” As Arthur highlights, the Christ’s College Diploma is the “building block for the successful College Graduate”. “So, in Years 12–13, the boys can become the ultimate College Graduates, who take their place in the ever-changing world out there, with all their strengths and abilities,” he adds.
can be interesting to specialise in, along with Sustainable Futures and Global Citizenship.” Hugo has also found that the “streamlined submission process” works well. “The Diploma provides the opportunity to be recognised across a range of abilities because there are lots of opportunities to extend yourself. I am a member of the Round Square Committee and have done the Model EU, so I have opportunities. “For example, the Round Square exchanges to different countries, either physically or virtually. It’s a really good opportunity to get out there and get some experience in the world, and also for Community and Service and Sustainable Futures, it gives you an opportunity to actually make an impact while still at College.” Hugo’s other interests include the Eco-Action Nursery, and Music and speech and drama. “These activities all fit within the Diploma and can be done through College, making it much easier. For example, for the Character and Leadership element, you can lead your House in many things. It’s quite easy to achieve once you know what you need.” — Hāpaitia te ara tika pūmau ai te rangatiratanga mō ngā uri whakatipu. Foster the pathway of knowledge to strength, independence and growth for future generations.
programme, and Year 10 student Hugo Buchan is already seeing the benefits of a holistic, higher level of achievement. “It is a good move to take a more well-rounded approach,” Hugo says. “NCEA is more academics based and, for many, the Diploma gives boys a chance to shine in various areas. However, it is still setting us up to achieve at NCEA Levels 2 and 3 because there is an academic element.” He adds that the Diploma “gives everyone an opportunity to find things that interest them” and “100 per cent sets us up well for life after College”. “It is a good opportunity to specialise in different areas and in ones that the boys find interesting. You only need four elements for Gold, and there are lots of areas to choose from, like Taha Māori. If a boy is really interested in biculturalism, that
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MOTIVATION
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