As part of our assessment of the literacy needs of our students, all girls in Year 9 and Year 10 have undergone diagnostic assessment of their reading, writing and comprehension skills this term, in their English classes. As a result of this a number of students have been invited to be involved with our literacy support programme next term.

Year 9 students involved in the programme will be partnered with a senior student during our peer reading sessions which will take place twice a week during normal reading time. The aim of these sessions is to improve reading comprehension and foster enjoyment of reading. For Year 10 students and those needing an extra level of support a specialist literacy teacher will work with girls for one hour a week to help fill any gaps with the aim to help lift their overall level of reading and writing. Junior Pasifika students can also access an extra hour of support via the Pasifika literacy programme.

Our curriculum reading programme aimed mainly at senior students will also begin next term. As in previous years any student who wishes to receive extra support is welcome to join. Students can bring along to the half hour sessions any work they are currently struggling with due to the reading or writing demands of the subject and get assistance from one of our trained literacy specialists.

If you wish your daughter to be involved in any of the support programmes then please encourage her to mention this to her English teacher. Alternatively you can email me directly at school if you require any further information (sp@otagogirls.school.nz)