Whanau and schools unite to improve literacy

A large-scale, grass-roots education campaign to raise literacy and education achievement levels in Manurewa is being launched this morning by Associate Education Minister Dr Pita Sharples.

The Manurewa Literacy Project involves 29 schools and kura in teacher professional development, extended reading recovery and whanau reading projects, in both English- and Maori-medium education.

“Today’s launch signals another step towards realising Maori potential through strengthening literacy,” said Dr Sharples, “and Manurewa is showing the way.”

“Successful learning in the early years is a ‘must’ if learners are going to stay engaged and go on to achieve in education. Investing in the development of strong learning foundations like reading and writing is critical to lifting achievement,” he said.

“Home has a powerful influence on what a child learns inside and outside of school. A special feature of this programme is the role parents take on with guidance on how to help their children at home.

“When productive partnerships between Maori learners, their whanau and expert educators are made, everyone enjoys better outcomes,” he said.

“These programmes have both teachers and whanau in mind. It is important to support teachers to improve their literacy teaching practices, but families, whanau and communities must not be overlooked,” said Dr Sharples.