Bethlehem College

Principles


Seek God’s purpose for your life.


Psalm 139:13–16 tells us that God has created every person, and that includes you, a unique individual with unique talents and gifts. In Jeremiah 29:11 God tells us He has a plan for our lives.


Your choice of subjects and career paths is vitally important. You need to choose subjects thoughtfully and prayerfully. Talk with your parents, teachers and the career counsellors about your talents and gifts, and your future plans. Before you make your choices, ask yourself whether the subjects you want to take are helping you do what you have been gifted to do, and whether they are fulfilling God’s plan for your life.




Subject Selection



Current BC Students and Caregivers can make Subject Selections via the left-hand navigation Subject Selection then 'Subjects for Selection' during the time that the portal is open. Once a subject is chosen, click "Select as one of my subjects".



Sequence of Events


August (Week 4 & 5)
Initial selection of subjects

January 2026

Results of NZQA qualifications published followed by:
  • course changes due to exam results considered
  • course changes due to pre-requisites not met and
  • changes due to subject unavailability

Academic Pathway

As students progress from Year 10 through to Year 13, the goal is to develop a solid foundation at each level, ensuring the best possible pathway for future years. Most subjects available in Year 10 can be continued in subsequent years, with some new subjects introduced at Years 11 and 12 that build on previous learning. It's important to note that many subjects have prerequisites - required levels of achievement - for continuation in the following year.

The school plans its teaching timetable in advance based on students' initial choices to provide the most efficient schedule and best use of resources. Because of this, changes requested at the beginning of the next year may not be possible. Therefore, it's crucial to make initial subject choices carefully and realistically. Changes are only accepted in specific circumstances, such as subject clashes, unavailable subjects, unmet prerequisites, or insufficient student numbers for a particular course.

When planning your academic pathway, consider several key points. Aim for a broad education rather than early specialization, as this allows for greater adaptability in the future. Remember that a true education prepares you to be a well-rounded individual with depth and culture. Seek advice from a variety of people with different experiences, and utilize helpful websites for research. Be realistic in your subject selection, but don't be afraid to pursue your dreams. Lastly, choose subjects based on your interests and goals, not just to be with friends. By considering these factors, you can make informed decisions that will shape your educational journey and future opportunities.



Summarised Key Points
  • Build a solid foundation each year
  • Most Year 10 subjects continue in later years
  • New subjects may be introduced in Years 11 and 12
  • Check subject prerequisites for each year
  • Initial subject choices are important for timetable planning
  • Changes may be limited once the school year start
  • Aim for a broad education rather than early specialization
  • Seek advice from various sources
  • Use online resources for research
  • Be realistic but don't be afraid to pursue your dreams
  • Choose subjects based on your interests, not your friends' choices

Educational Guidance
The Deans, Careers Advisor and the Assistant Heads of Secondary are available to give guidance about your subject choices, so that your particular needs are met in the best way possible.

Current 2024 Staff
Year 9 Whānau Leaders


Simon Hayward: [email protected] 

Lani Hardy: [email protected] 

Year 10 Deans


Anna Exelby: [email protected]

Suzanne Todd-Mckeown: [email protected]    

Year 11 Deans


Mike Goddard, [email protected]

Shelley MacKay, [email protected]

Year 12 Deans


Linda Anderson, [email protected]

Helen Smith, [email protected]

Year 13 Deans


Charlotte Bartrum, [email protected]

Louw Olivier, [email protected]


CareersAnna Exelby: [email protected]


AHOS (7–9)Madeleine Lambert: [email protected]
AHOS  (10–13)Christopher Niles: [email protected] 


Special Assessment Conditions
If you have a physical or learning disability, and require the assistance of a reader, writer and/or extra time to be able to attempt your Achievement/Unit Standards, you need to discuss this with the Special Education Needs Co-ordinator (SENCO) for special assessment conditions. NZQA and the College have strict rules for the application of Special Assessment conditions.

Reports
Reports will be sent home in Term 2, and after the start of Term 4. Parents will have the opportunity for a conference with staff twice throughout the year. The in-depth report will indicate progress, subject specific skills, internal Unit/Achievement Standards completed and the level of achievement. The report will also show estimated achievements in external Achievement Standards from School Exams which take place at the end of Term 3.

Course Costs

All Y12-13 courses offer NZQA Standards. There are no longer NZQA fees for New Zealand residents.  Additional costs required for individual subjects are stated against the subject.