For the last two years the Northland RTDs have run fortnightly Language Days where all the students from Ruakaka to Kaitaia are brought together at one school location. Last week Catherine Eichmann took Louise Roe, Lisa Sharman and me up to Moerewa Primary School to see them in action.

The focus for this day was “The Language of Geometry”. Students were split into 6 groups and spent about 20 minutes at each station completing differentiated activities designed to help them access the maths curriculum and expand their understanding of geometry. Trilingual resources incorporating Te Reo and NZSL are also a focus for the team.

Although the purpose of the Language Days is around improving academic achievement, the benefits for the students’ wellbeing were obvious. Cheerful, engaged, enthusiastic learners participated in all the activities with gusto. Meeting every two weeks throughout the year has allowed the students the opportunity to build friendships and increase their confidence at school.

Another spinoff has been the links made between the Educational Associates who work in isolated areas and would not normally see each other. They now share their practice and feel connected both professionally and personally to a wider group.

Thank you to Lynne Couling-Brown, Claire McSkimming, Floyd Rao, Rebecca Casey, Pamela Lonie, Lyn Sturge, Raj Krishnamoorthy and Whaea Daughter and Whaea Tang for hosting us last week. And a very big thank you to the students who opened their hearts to us and allowed us to participate in their day.