Science
Chemistry
Chemistry helps students explore the structure, properties, and interactions of matter. Students investigate how everyday materials - like fuels, plastics, and medicines - are created and used, and how chemical reactions affect our lives and the environment.
The course covers key topics such as carbon chemistry, types of chemical reactions, and the identification of ions in solution. Students also carry out practical investigations, including exploring the rate of chemical reactions and linking chemical structure to real-world applications.
Chemistry is essential for careers in health, engineering, environmental science, winemaking, and more.
Biology
Biology is the study of living things and how they interact with each other and their environments. Students explore the variation, continuity, and interconnectedness of life - from the tiniest microorganisms to complex ecosystems. They investigate how our bodies work, how plants grow, and how genetics shape who we are.
This course includes fascinating topics such as genetic variation, life processes in flowering plants, mammals as consumers, and the unique biodiversity of Aotearoa in NZ: Land of Mystery. Students also examine the relationship between microorganisms and their environments, blending hands-on investigation with scientific theory.
Biology opens doors to careers in health, environmental science, biotechnology, and more.
Physics
Physics is the foundation of modern science and technology. At Takapuna Grammar School, physics introduces students to the core principles of mechanics, electricity, magnetism, waves, and atomic and nuclear physics. Through hands-on experiments and real-world applications, students learn to think logically, solve problems, and explain complex ideas using both mathematical and written communication.
This course is ideal for students who are curious about how things work - from the motion of planets to the circuits in smartphones - and who enjoy working with algebra, trigonometry, and graphs. Practical work is a key component and students also earn credits through a mix of internal and external NCEA assessments, including Earth and Space Science.
Physics opens doors to exciting careers in engineering, health sciences, architecture, digital technology, environmental science, and more.
