Taking account of mokopuna readiness to engage in learning where they are both challenged and also enjoy success is a better way of facilitating and organising for learning than by year levels. In line with this, we use the following terms to reflect how this happens at Te Kōpuku High.
| Nīkau Term | Nīkau Part | Level of learning | Loosely relates to; |
| Pakiaka | The roots | Establishing | Years 7 - 9 |
| Kāhiwi | The trunk | Developing | Years 9 - 11 |
| Ngā Rau | The fronds | Specialising | Years 10 - 12 |
| Ngā Hua | The fruit | Refining | Year 13 |
The overlap in year levels is intentional. Kahiwi (developing) as a reference point is associated with the new co-requisites where nationally, mokopuna must achieve 10 literacy/te reo matatini and 10 numeracy/pāngarau credits to qualify for the NCEA qualification. Mokopuna can attempt to 'pass' these co-requisites from year 9 to year 13, but we're aiming for earlier i.e. year 9 for those who are 'ready' rather than later at year 12 or 13).
Updated December 2023