The Humanities and Social Sciences are essential for every young person seeking to understand the world and their place in it. At Rautāwhiri, our Humanities Faculty offers a diverse range of subjects including Commerce, Classical Studies, Geography, History, Junior and Senior Social Studies, Legal Studies, Employment Skills, and Tourism.
In these subjects, students explore how societies function and how they themselves can become thoughtful, active, and informed citizens. Our learning draws from the past, present, and future - and from experiences both here in Aotearoa New Zealand and across the globe. Students dive into the study of people, cultures, histories, contemporary issues, the environment, legal and economic systems, and the complex forces that shape them.
Through their Humanities learning, students gain valuable skills: they learn to ask meaningful questions, carry out research, explore different perspectives, analyse ideas, communicate clearly, and reflect on their own understandings. These are lifelong skills that empower students to engage critically and confidently with the world around them.
Studying Humanities opens the door to a world of possibilities. It helps students develop powerful skills in critical thinking, communication, and understanding people - all of which are highly valued in today’s job market. Whether you're passionate about storytelling, justice, helping others, or solving real-world problems, Humanities can lead you there. Career paths are only limited by your imagination!
Commerce
Commerce is all about understanding how money, businesses, and the economy work. In this subject, you will learn the basics of managing finances, running a business, and making smart economic decisions.
You will explore topics like marketing, budgeting, and entrepreneurship, giving you the skills to start your own business or succeed in the corporate world.
Commerce is perfect for anyone interested in careers like business, finance, or accounting. Plus, the skills you gain, like critical thinking and problem-solving, are useful in everyday life too!
Classical Studies
Classical Studies is like time-travel with purpose! Step into the worlds of ancient Greece and Rome - full of epic myths, legendary heroes, powerful empires, and groundbreaking ideas.
You will explore everything from gods and monsters to politics, philosophy, art, and war, and see how these ancient cultures still shape our lives today.
If you love stories, big ideas, and asking “why?”, this subject is for you. Classical Studies builds your skills in critical thinking, analysis, and cultural understanding - all while uncovering the roots of modern society. It’s not just history - it’s the ultimate origin story.
Employment Skills
Employment Skills will set you up for real-world success! This course is all about practical, hands-on learning that helps you get ready for the world of work.
You will learn how to write a standout CV, nail a job interview, and become a confident team player. You’ll also build essential skills like time management, problem-solving, workplace communication, and how to handle challenges on the job.
Whether you’re looking to start part-time work soon or just want to be future-ready, Employment Skills gives you the tools you need to thrive in any career path. Please note this is a Unit Standard course and does not meet the requirements of University Entrance.
Geography
Geography is all about understanding the world we live in - and how we shape it, and it shapes us.
From epic natural landscapes like volcanoes and rivers to bustling cities and global issues like climate change, poverty, and resource use, Geography connects the local to the global.
You will investigate real-world problems, explore different environments, and learn how people interact with the planet in smart and sustainable ways.
If you’re curious about the world, love maps, or want to make a difference, Geography is for you. It’s a great pathway into careers like environmental science, urban planning, conservation, and tourism.
History
History is where the stories of the past come to life - full of bold ideas, dramatic events, and powerful people who’ve shaped the world we live in today.
You will dig into the big moments, movements, and turning points in human history, and explore different perspectives on what really happened and why it matters.
Along the way, you will build skills in research, analysis, and critical thinking - learning how to ask the right questions, weigh up evidence, and make your own informed conclusions.
If you love a good story, enjoy debating ideas, or want to understand how the past connects to the present, History is your subject.
Legal Studies
Legal Studies opens the door to the world of law, justice, and your rights. You will learn how the legal system works, what your rights and responsibilities are, and how laws impact real people in everyday situations.
From criminal justice to civil rights, you will explore big ideas and real-life cases, gaining insight into how courts, police, and lawmakers shape our society. Along the way, you will sharpen your critical thinking, debate, and problem-solving skills.
Whether you're keen on a career in law, policing, or social justice - or just want to understand how the rules that shape our world are made - Legal Studies is an eye-opening subject. Please note this is a Unit Standard course and does not meet the requirements of University Entrance.
Senior Social Studies
Senior Social Studies is all about making sense of the world you live in - and your role in shaping it.
You will dive into big social issues like human rights, government policies, inequality, and cultural diversity, exploring how these impact people and communities.
This subject builds your skills in research, critical thinking, and communication as you examine different viewpoints and develop your own informed opinions. You will learn to ask the tough questions, challenge assumptions, and take action on issues that matter.
If you're passionate about people, justice, or making a positive impact, Senior Social Studies is a powerful subject that connects learning with the real world - and your future in it.
Tourism
Tourism takes you behind the scenes of the national and global travel and hospitality industry.
You will learn how trips are planned, what impact tourism has on people and places, and what makes destinations in Aotearoa New Zealand and around the world unique.
Whether you’re dreaming of becoming a travel agent, hotel manager, tour guide, or working overseas, Tourism gives you real-world skills to help you get there.
Please note this is a Unit Standard course and does not meet the requirements of University Entrance.