NEWHAVEN College is thrilled to share its students’ progress in their reading journey. Last week, Prep students celebrated a significant milestone with the presentation of reading folders, marking the beginning of their path to becoming proficient readers. Families joined the celebration, participating in reading sessions and supporting their children's literacy development. Principal Tony Corr was present to congratulate each student on their achievements so far.
The College’s Junior School teachers have been deeply engaged in professional development opportunities to enhance their instructional practices. "Some valuable changes in reading instruction have been implemented, and we are incredibly pleased with the results," said Cath Huther, Head of Junior School.
At the beginning of the year, Nathaniel Swain joined the entire Newhaven College educational staff for a professional learning day focused on aligning literacy from Prep to Year 12, emphasising the Science of Learning. Nathaniel, from La Trobe University, has been involved in developing structured literacy resources and professional development aligned with the Science of Reading. His work focuses on explicit instruction, cognitive load theory, and effective literacy interventions to support teachers and students.
The Science of Reading program at Newhaven College is built on the latest research to ensure that all students receive the highest-quality literacy instruction. This evidence-based approach focuses on teaching essential reading skills and offers effective strategies for helping children learn to read. It also provides guidance on how to support students who may struggle with reading along the way.
Knowing that it is a huge benefit to build and establish strong foundations in Prep, the College also ensures a flow through to the rest of our Junior School. A significant flow-on effect from this program has been the strengthening of home-school partnerships, with families actively supporting their children’s reading development through tailored take-home reading folders.
Cath Huther is impressed with students’ progress so far, “We are proud to announce that last week we awarded reading certificates to students who have displayed consistent reading habits at home throughout Term One. These certificates are awarded on a termly basis, and our goal is to increase this percentage each term, ultimately aiming for 100% of our students receiving reading awards. Our families are embracing this partnership, and we are thrilled to see nightly reading habits flourishing at home, knowing they will make a big difference in students' reading development.
“Our ultimate aim is simple: to ensure that every child at Newhaven College learns to read and reads well, while also developing a love of literature and a lifelong passion for learning,” she said.
To learn more about Newhaven College’s Prep program, everyone is encouraged to attend the upcoming Prep Information Morning on Tuesday, April 29. For more information, visit the Newhaven College website: ‘Book A Tour’, or contact admissions@newhavencol.vic.edu.au
