One question often asked by parents selecting a secondary school for their child is around which qualification is better - NCEA, Cambridge or International Baccalaureate (IB).
The answer is simple. It's not the qualification that will provide access into a university of choice; it's how well the student has achieved that will be the determining factor. And not only that, it is their contribution to their wider personal development in sport, service and the arts that often makes the biggest difference.
An example is two Diocesan students who gained acceptance to Cambridge University in England. One sat NCEA while the other was an IB student. While both achieved excellent grades in their chosen programme, they also contributed to high levels of debating, choral competitions, chamber music, service learning and sport.
Employers looking for more than just top grades
The world is changing and academic excellence is no longer the only attribute which employers are looking for; in fact, it's well down the list compared to passion, proactivity, team work, communication skills and a willingness to serve others in a consistent, heartfelt and mindful manner.
However, that doesn't mean great grades are not important, says Diocesan School Principal, Heather McRae.
"More often than not, selection for limited entry courses or top tertiary scholarships are won by well rounded students who have a high overall grade point average but can also demonstrate significant achievements in a range of personal development areas.
"At Diocesan, we believe that academic excellence is more than just knowing more - it is about using that knowledge to make a difference in the world."
NCEA and IB on offer at Diocesan
While the majority of Diocesan students sit NCEA, a growing number are undertaking the IB programme. An essential element is the Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) component which allows students to explore something they're passionate about in a supported environment. This has seen Dio students undertake projects such as composing and producing an original musical, writing and publishing a book about ANZAC heroes, and building a sea-worthy double kayak from scratch.
Says Heather, "The real measures of education are not what qualification we teach but how we teach others to care, give service and contribute not only in the workforce, but for a better society."
So, parents can relax about the choice of school qualification. All the qualifications offered by New Zealand schools are recognised by international tertiary institutions as New Zealand has a highly regarded and rigorous education system. Each qualification differs in the range and choice of subjects. Each and every one has the capacity to enable access to university anywhere in the world.
An educated choice
Diocesan has a highly regarded Career Development Centre and students are encouraged to talk to advisors about their University choices. If a specific university or course is the target, then it is recommended that students and their parents take the time to find out what the course entry requirements are, as universities and other tertiary education providers around the world set different standards.