Learning Support

The learning support team aims to provide a level of upskilling to students who have additional learning needs with the goal of developing their independent learning skills. For students with very diverse requirements the aim is to assist teachers to adapt learning environments where possible to support the student. It is felt that the best learning time is mainly in the regular classroom with peers.

Getting extra help for your child at school isn’t always a certainty. Even though our school offers the following, there are some reasons why your child might not always get this help. Some examples of what we can offer are:

  • Micro Classes – Provided to students who need a boost in a specific subject area (these are designed around the needs of small groups of students and are short term boosters).

  • Reduced Programmes – The aim is to reduce the workload for these students so that they can focus on their core subjects. These students will have three to six sessions in the learning support class to be guided through their work.

  • Teacher Aide Support – The Teacher Aides will be assigned to a specific whanau and have a timetable for supporting their assigned classroom. Teacher Aides are trained to support a range of students within the classroom, and promote independent growth. We promote inclusive practice.

  • Reader/Writers for Assessments – A system is set up where teachers can apply for Reader/Writers for specific students when assessments are due. These are assigned at the discretion of the school, and are prioritised for students with a Learning Profile Report.

  • Technology – Students will be supported to upskill with a range of technology that will support them through their schooling. These include talk to text, touch typing tutorials and use of calculators.

  • Outside Services – Coordinate links to external agencies e.g Resource Teachers for Learning and Behaviour (RTLB) support.

  • Student Profiles – In collaboration with previous schools and parents, we compile and summarise information around best practice for teachers based on individual needs for our students.

The above bullet points only outline our main areas of service, however, in the administration of the area of Learning Support, we also apply for funding where appropriate.

We believe it is important for teachers and parents to talk and work together to figure out what kind of support each child needs. The level of support can vary between students and year levels, due to growth and development. We do not run a ‘one size fits all’ programme, and endeavour to address the learning needs individually – where possible.

For more information about Learning Support at AJHS please contact Gemma Gresham.