Principal (Primary)
We follow the New Zealand Curriculum (NZC), which sets out what students need to learn from Year 1 to Year 10.
The NZC focuses on helping students become confident, connected, actively involved, and lifelong learners. It includes a range of subjects such as English, Maths, Science, Social Studies, Technology, the Arts, Health and Physical Education, and Learning Languages.
The curriculum also supports key competencies like thinking, using language, managing self, relating to others, and participating in communities.
Our teachers use the NZC to plan engaging lessons that meet the needs of all learners and help them grow in knowledge, skills, and confidence.
The key competencies of the New Zealand Curriculum are delivered through our Learner Dispositions.
These six dispositions—Teamwork, Communicator, Investigator, Self-Manager, Respect, and Perseverance—are embedded in everything we do. They guide our students in developing the skills and mindset needed for lifelong learning and success.
Students are encouraged to collaborate effectively, communicate their ideas clearly, think critically and investigate new possibilities, manage themselves and their responsibilities, show respect for others and their environment, and persevere through challenges.
By strengthening these qualities across all areas of school life, we equip our learners with the confidence and capability to thrive both now and in the future.
Our students are encouraged to lead with kindness and confidence.
Student leadership at Chapel Downs is about stepping up, helping others, and being a positive role model.
Year 6 students have a variety of opportunities to develop these skills, taking on roles that make a real difference across our school community.
Year 6 - House Captains
In Year 6, students have the opportunity to be involved in nominating their peers for the role of House Captain—someone they believe upholds our school dispositions and exemplifies what it means to be a Chapel Downs Champ.
The House Captains are then further developed as leaders through a variety of roles and responsibilities. They actively participate in the PALS programme, running sports activities for our younger students at lunchtime. They also attend National Young Leaders Day to further hone their leadership skills and act as role models for others.
In addition, House Captains take on important tasks such as being the MC for assemblies, delivering the daily announcements, and greeting visitors to the school. They set a strong example of leadership and good character, both in the classroom and on the playground, as they inspire others to be Chapel Downs Champs in all that they do.
Year 6 - Road Crossing Monitors
Our Year 6 Road Crossing Monitors play a vital role in ensuring the safety of our students as they cross Dawson Road by the main entrance. Trained by Constable Matt from the Police, these students take on a very responsible role, demonstrating their commitment to the safety of others.
The monitors are always aware of their surroundings, carefully watching the traffic and guiding students to cross safely. Their training and attention to detail make them key figures in maintaining a secure environment for everyone at Chapel Downs.
Year 6 - Wet Day Monitors
On wet days, our Year 6 Wet Day Monitors take on a leadership role, helping to maintain a calm and positive environment inside the classrooms when we are unable to have outdoor lunch breaks. These monitors encourage younger students to play quiet games and help ensure everyone is engaged and comfortable.
Their role extends across the school, as they support teachers and students alike, fostering a sense of responsibility and leadership. Their contributions make a big difference on days when we need to stay indoors, ensuring that everyone has a safe and enjoyable break.
Year 6 - Office Monitors
Our Year 6 Office Monitors take great pride in helping out in the school office. They assist by running messages, collecting students and bringing them to the office, and supporting with any tasks that need to be done throughout the day.
Every Year 6 student has the opportunity to be an office monitor at least once during the year, allowing them to develop a sense of responsibility and contribute to the smooth running of the school. It’s a great chance for students to experience a leadership role and show their helpfulness and organisational skills.
