Wide range of Subjects

Through all subjects the key competencies of self management, relating to others, participating and contributing, thinking and using language symbols and texts are emphasised.

LEARNING AREAS

Learning areas are broad groupings of knowledge in the New Zealand Curriculum. Oxford Area School covers the 8 Learning Areas as laid out in the New Zealand Curriculum Document and as are considered essential for a general education

• Arts
• English
• Science
• Technology
• Social Sciences
• Learning Languages
• Health and Physical Education
• Social Sciences

INTERNAL ORGANISATION

The school has three divisions:
New Entrants, Year 1 to Year 6 [Primary School]
Year 7 to Year 10 [Junior High School]
Year 11 to Year 13 [Senior High School] 
Various sections are under the general supervision of Deans or Syndicate Leaders

EXAMINATIONS AND AWARDS

The Oxford Area School Course Course Book outlines the full range of subjects which are offered at each level.
Senior School classes prepare students for the National Certificate of Educational Achievement Qualifications Levels 1 - 3
In the Senior School a wide range of optional subjects is available.

EDUCATION BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

Performing Arts:
Students are encouraged to particpate in productions such as the Stage Challenge each year.  These productions are organised by students.   A comprehensive Performing Arts programme is offered from Years 7 - 13 with Drama, Dance and Music as well as opportunities to develop skills in costuming, production, lighting etc.   Instruments are available for hire and tuition can be provided.  Choirs and musical groups participate in festivals in North Canterbury and Christchurch.

Outdoor Education:                                                                                                                                   

A comprehensive Outdoor Education programme provides unique experiences for our students.  Years 1-6 classes often have outdoor trips, with Year 5 & 6 classes having one overnight camp each year.  Year 7 & 8 classes go on a 3 day camp each year.  This is a water based experience one year and a tramping.outdoor skills based camp the next.  Year 9 classes experience a week in the mountains and foothills of south Canterbury with tramping, river rafting and a ropes course, building confidence and team work as part of the STARS programme.  Year 10 students have a winter skiing/snowboarding trip each year and a camp at the end of the year.  An Outdoor Pursuits and Leadership course is offered at Year 12 and an Outdoor Management Course at Year 13.

Sport:
Regular participation in sport is promoted at all levels. A highlight of the year is CASAFEST, the Festival of Sporting and Cultural activities with other Canterbury Area Schools.
Oxford teams participate in Country High Schools' and Inter-Secondary and Inter-Primary sports tournaments.

Cultural Exchanges:
Students are encouraged to be involved in Inter-Secondary drama productions, debating and speech competitions. Senior pupils are encouraged to join exchange programs and pupils from other countries are welcomed into our school community.

Visual Arts:

Upgraded facilities, a large, purpose-built darkroom and attractice teaching spaces are evident in the art and design room.   Oxford Area School specialises in the teaching of art, practical art, painting, photography and design.  Painting, photography and design are taught to NCEA Level 3.