Senior College of Philosophy
Knowledge, Reason, Ideas
Welcome to the Ao Tawhiti Senior College of Philosophy. This site is a guide to our senior school. It contains information about courses, qualifications, and pathways.
The goal of the senior college of philosophy, classics, & psychology is to treat students as autonomous, mature individuals, who take ownership over their learning. Our aim is to provide a university-style experience for senior secondary students.
Successful graduates will gain NCEA Level 3, University Entrance, and 15 points towards a degree at the University of Canterbury (optional).
This senior college will suit students on academic, creative, or vocational pathways, who are fascinated by new ideas, and interested in exploring the puzzles we all face in daily life.
NCEA courses
Students are assessed against NCEA standards at Level 1, 2, 3, and 4 in a range of subject areas that jointly contribute to their primary interests in philosophy, classics, and psychology. For example, standards from classical studies, history, science, psychology, religious studies, and english for academic purposes are all available for inclusion in student assessment plans.
STAR courses
We offer opportunities for students to take undergraduate philosophy courses through the University of Canterbury. These are funded with the STAR (Secondary Tertiary Alignment Resource). Students engage in their university study at school, supported by their learning advisor. Upon successful completion, they are awarded points towards their degree.
Our students typically achieve results of a very high standard in their university courses. Some exceptional students have successfully completed stage two university courses in philosophy while in year 13.
Want to know more?
Meet your Learning Advisors
If you have any questions, please email your Philosophy Learning Advisor:
brent.silby@aotawhiti.school.nz