Science Department
The sciences prepare students for the challenges of tomorrow by teaching key competencies in the context of science. Learning about science may begin at BHS but we hope it never ends. 
The Science Department offers courses from Year 9 to Year 13. The year 9 and 10 science program provides the base which branches out into many areas in the senior school. 

Junior Courses
Year 9 and 10
All Year 9 and 10 students study four periods of Science each week. They learn to ask questions about the world around them and use the scientific method to find answers and more questions.  Along with the prescribed course that provides a sound knowledge base required to enter the senior sciences, students develop their science skills in student centred activities such as Science Badge research projects and Science Fair investigations. 

Year 9 students also study Environmental Science for 3 periods a week for one term.  In this class they participate in our award winning tree planting and beach clean up field trips that have been running for over 15 years.  This course has a focus on sustainability and conservation.

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Senior Courses
Year 11
Students can choose from 4 different classes: Physical Science, Biological Science, Horticulture and Alternative Science. 

Year 12 and 13
Students can choose from Physics, Biology and Chemistry.  

Other Opportunities in Science
We strongly encourage students to apply for opportunities outside of school and strongly support those applications.  Some of the opportunities students have taken advantage of in the past year include: The Sir Peter Blake Youth Environment Forum in Auckland, The Otago University’ Hand’s Science course and their Science Academy, Untouched World Trust’s Kiwi project in Okarito, the Aurora Astronomy School at the University of Canterbury and Mt. John Observatory, etc.

We also host the Science Roadshow, International Science Competitions, Buller Science Fair and the West Coast Science Fair.

A background in the sciences prepares you for the challenges of tomorrow’s world.  Are you ready?

Teacher contact details:
Stephen Dorey                                 stephen.dorey@buller.ac.nz  - Head of Department
Janet Pottinger                                 janet.pottinger@buller.ac.nz 
Laura Griffin                                     laura.griffin@buller.ac.nz
Erica Jar                                           erica.jar@buller.ac.nz 
Shelly Hogarth                                 shelly.hogarth@buller.ac.nz - technician ​

​See attached Document for Course Material