The countdown is on: just over five weeks until the exams begin! This week, we continue to encourage all of our learners to #developself and ‘try hard’ for their derived grade exams. These exams are compulsory to attend and we know learners have been working really hard in their classes in preparation. 

A reminder that information shared in the previous Lancewood edition regarding our derived grade examinations can be found on our school website. All exams for year 11, 12 and 13 learners will take place at Te Kura Tuarua, our senior campus.

It was great to see so many of our year 11 learners and their whānau visit the campus this week for our course information evening. In the coming weeks we will share a short clip of the campus to help familiarise our year 11s with the campus layout, and where the meeting points are on the day of their exam. We encourage you to discuss with your child where Te Kura Tuarua is, and help familiarise them with their route to school during exams. 

Over the past few Lancewood editions, we have been looking at ‘why’ derived grade exams are important AND ‘how’ to best prepare for them. Rolleston College’s ‘four P’s’ and ‘trying hard’ are highly effective methods behind gaining success in NCEA. 

We have all seen outstanding success from sports teams, athletes, musicians, actors… the list goes on! Their PREPARATION was years in the making, and the following image reflects what many don’t always see behind that gold, silver or bronze medal.

When we apply the same mindset to our learning, success and progress will happen!

And don’t forget...

PREPARATION: ‘Try hard’ by ensuring you have created your study timetable and are sticking to it! Share your study timetable with family so they can support you to stick to it. Organise your notes and practice as many past papers as possible. Be sure to also attend the many tutorials on offer by your teachers. On the day remember your essential equipment – headphones, calculator, stationery, device etc. 

‘Do a little bit and often’

PARTICIPATION: ‘Try hard’ by turning up in plenty of time for your exams. Attempt all of the questions – even when you are unsure!

‘Show Up and know you have value’

PROGRESS: ‘Try hard’ by taking on board the feedback your teachers will give you following the exam - this is really helpful heading into the final NCEA exams at the end of the year.

‘Receive feedback and use it to progress further’

PERSONAL BEST: ‘Try hard’ to reach your goals! These exams are taking you one step closer to your future career!

‘Surround yourself with success’

Read our previous derived grade exam pānui

Friday 7 August 2026
Friday 31 July 2026
Friday 24 July 2026

See the derived grade examination information page on our website.