The Independent Learning Curriculum (ILC) treats the investigation of a topic as the basis for learning. Both knowledge and skills are valued, and are treated as seamless and interrelated. The traditional artificial barriers between subjects are broken down. Mathematics, Science, English, Social Studies, Art, Technology, Health & PE are integrated, creating a thematic project. The complete Independent Learning Curriculum is a four year comprehensive curriculum for Year 7 - 10. Each year a student at South Auckland Middle School will complete 8 projects - 2 per term.