Hapori
A Hapori course is a non-curricular focused learning experience driven by student passion. Rooted in the concept of "hapori" or community, these courses empower students to explore diverse topics outside the traditional curriculum, fostering collaboration and a sense of ownership over their learning. With a focus on self-directed exploration, Hapori courses encourage students to pursue their interests, ranging from creative arts to technology and social issues. This initiative reflects our commitment to cultivating well-rounded individuals who are not only academically proficient but also deeply connected to their passions and the broader community.
Science, Technology, Electronics & Machines!
If you've ever looked at an eBike, eScooter, boost board, or a 'smart machine' and wondered, "How does that actually work, and how can I make it better?"—this is your playground. No prior coding or robotics experience required—just curiosity and a drive to build. In this course, you won't just sit and read about technology; you will actively build, hack, and test it. There MAY be some NCEA assessment opportunities in this course for very highly motivated participants.
What You Will Explore
- The Scientific Method: how it can be applied to problem solving and technological development.
- Electronics: How to build basic or more complex circuits and what different components do.
- Electric Vehicles (EVs): Get under the hood (or deck) of electric bikes, scooters, and skateboards. You’ll experiment with battery efficiency, motor controllers, and regenerative braking to understand how we move sustainably.
- Robotics & Automation (Vex & ePro8): Dive deep into mechanical engineering and automation. Using Vex Robotics and ePro8 kits, you will design, prototype, and program machines to solve real-world logistical and physical challenges.
- The Intersection of Motion: What happens when EVs meet robotics? You will explore how autonomous sensors, coding, and smart tech are transforming how vehicles interact with the world around them.
[Empathise/Define] ➔ [Ideate] ➔ [Prototype] ➔ [Test & Tweak] ➔ [Compete]
You will have the freedom to pitch your own projects, work collaboratively in teams, and engage in friendly, gamified challenges (ePro8-style rapid prototyping trials or Vex arena battles). Failing forward is highly encouraged here—every slipped gear or faulty circuit is just data for your next iteration.