Clearly, given optimum conditions a seed will grow and transform into splendid maturity.

So it is with the children in our care. When nurtured, they too will grow and reach out, taking advantage of the fertile environment to become fully functioning and fulfilled human beings. All children can write about issues close to their lives and hearts. Their lives matter, and aspects of those lives are worth recording. (Loane, 2010)

Hobsonville leaders, teachers and students were fortunate to have Gail Loane visit again this week, and spend Tuesday and Wednesday mentoring leaders and teachers to help develop all our young writers to authorship.

Gail Loane was awarded the Queen’s Service Medal in 2007 for Services to Literacy with teachers and children. Gail’s book "I’ve Got Something to Say" is used in many tertiary educational institutions, such as Massey University and Waikato University.

This professional development opportunity ensures we fill the learning spaces with opportunities that foster all our students to share their experiences, then how best to write it.