Curriculum
We offer a full range of subjects at all levels. YR11 and YR12 students must take six subjects, but most YR13 students take only five, and use their free time to study. International students will be assessed when they arrive, and their placement will depend on their academic ability and level of English. However we do our best to place students in the subjects they choose.
You can download a Curriculum Flowchart from this site or email the school to receive one. Please read it carefully and do not hesitate to contact us if you have any queries.
Thames High School offers the following qualifications
- National Certificate of Educational Achievement (Levels 1-3)
- National Certificate of Employment Skills
- National Certificate of Computer Studies
We can also make arrangements for students who wish to sit the TOEFL and IELTS examinations.
School Terms
The school has four terms of 10 weeks each, starting in early February and ending in late November for Seniors (Years 11-13) and December for Juniors (Years 9-10).
Term Dates 2021
| Term 1: | Start: Wednesday 3 February – New International Students’ Orientation |
| Finish: Friday 16 April (Anzac Day in holidays) | |
| Term 2: | Start: Monday 3 May |
| Finish: Friday 9 July | |
| Term 3: | Start: Monday 26 July |
| Finish: Friday 1 October | |
| Term 4: | Start: Monday 18 October |
| Finish: Seniors (Year 11-13) will finish in week 3 of Term 4. NCEA external exams starts Monday 8 November Juniors (Year 9-10) will finish Thursday 16 December |
The School Day
The school day begins at 9.00 a.m. – 3.00 p.m. Thames High School is running a 10 day timetable. On every day there are three 90 minute periods. On a Wednesday there is also a 40 minute Learning Advisory time. The mid-morning and lunch breaks vary according to the day. School is open from Monday to Friday, and there are never lessons on Saturday, although most sports teams play their games then.
You can view and download the weekly timetable here.
Uniform
All students must wear the school uniform. This will cost the student about NZ$300. International Students who come for a very short period might not be required to wear the uniform.
For more information see the Uniform page on the main High School website here.
Lunches
Most students bring their own lunch to school although they can buy it from our canteen.
Smoking
Smoking is forbidden by all students at school. Smoking in school uniform outside of school is also forbidden.
Town
Thames High School is situated within easy walking distance of the Thames township. Only Year 13 students may leave the school during the day without permission.
Driving
International students are not permitted to own or drive motor vehicles while attending Thames High School.
