MENPS News

Kia ora koutou

Also on the topic of languages, the most recent Education Policy anouncement has been the adoption of Structured Literacy across New Zealand schools, with Y1-3 targeted for 2024 and later years to follow in 2025.

The term 'Structured Literacy' simply refers to a number of programmes of phonics instruction that focus on explicit teaching about letter/sound relationships - something that is already currently a strong component of our literacy programmes in the early years.

Our Strategic Planning here at MENPS for 2023/2024 already included a review of the current provision for phonics instruction in our literacy programmes, leading to the introduction of a new programme called Better Start Literacy (BSLA) in 'trial' classes across Years 1 and 2.

The BSLA approach was developed in New Zealand by a team of experienced researchers from the University of Canterbury, following years of research on the best ways to support children’s early reading, writing and oral language success.

Moving forward, our next step will be to continue evaluating the programme so far and determining the timeline for further teacher training in this approach.

We will share further information and timeframes as these are confirmed, but you can rest assured that this recent policy announcement will not represent a sudden or dramatic change to our existing approach or literacy plans.

Ka kite anõ i a koutou

Alan Jackson

Principal

Friday 10th May:

• Year 3 Dance Workshop with Royal NZ Ballet (9:00am - 1:00pm in school)

Monday 13th May:

• Rescheduled Year 6 Camp Info Evening (6:00pm - 7:00pm)

Wednesday 15th May:

• School Board Meeting - Staffroom (6:00pm - 9:00pm)

Friday 17th May:

• PTA Second Hand Uniform Shop (8:15am - 9:15am)

For information and to see how you can help see: https://www.menpspta.co.nz/dragon-boat

We are also seeking sponsors for this event from small or medium size businesses. If you are interested in what sponsorship would provide for your business please email menpspta@gmail.com to discuss further.

We need some volunteers for the following roles - please let us know if you can help!

• Ice Block sales: Join the ice block team WhatsApp group and volunteer to help when you can at the mid term and end of term ice block sales - email menpspta@gmail.com to be added to the ice block team chat.
• Dragon Boat Festival - Volunteer to help at the festival on Saturday 8th June. Sign up here: https://www.menpspta.co.nz/dragon-boat
• Uniform shop: join the second hand uniform shop roster to help when you can - email menpspta@gmail.com to be added to the group.

Collect stickers from Yummy Apples or cut out labels (or bar codes) from Yummy Apple bags. Completed sheets can be dropped back to your class teacher or the office at any time until the 20th Sept 2024. Stickers will be redeemed for new sports equipment for MENPS - last year we received $1,548 worth of sports equipment for our kids to enjoy! Thank you for collecting

Thank you to everyone who attended Tuesday's PTA Meeting. Minutes can be found HERE.

Any feedback, please contact menpspta@gmail.com

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Refer to the PTA website for information on the various fundraising and community activities

Co-Chairs Pam Clifford & Svantje Reiber

Secretary Chelsea Chen

Treasurer Linda Waddington-Miller & Paula Tran

PTA Advisor Chantal Brunner

Sponsorships Rayni Chung

School Representative Hilary Edwards

Full team of amazing parents/caregivers listed here

Pottery market coming up on the Fri/Sat of Mother's Day weekend. Each piece unique, quality and handmade. It's also a fundraiser for St Columba's community work in Auckland, including its weekly lunch for 65 people, in its 8th year. Playground for littlies. Local cafés recommended for post-purchase refreshments. Entry to market by koha if you can.

CLAY WORKS Potters' Market 2024 | Facebook