Extra Support for Literacy and Numeracy

We are committed to all students reaching their full potential. For some students, this means providing additional support to help them build important learning skills in reading and mathematics.

To ensure we meet the needs of all learners, our school uses a Response to Intervention (RTI) model. This approach allows us to provide different levels of support depending on what each student needs.

• Tier 1: Whole-class, evidence-based instruction provided to all students in the classroom.
• Tier 2: Small group support and instruction for students identified as needing extra help.
• Tier 3: Individual or small-group, intensive targeted instruction for students who require this level of support.

Students who participate in our Small Group Learning programs are typically receiving Tier 2 or Tier 3 support. Students are selected based on recent school assessment data so that support is targeted and timely.

Our intervention programs are guided by research about how students learn best, often referred to as the Science of Learning. This research shows that students learn most effectively when teaching is explicit, structured, and practised regularly, with frequent review and clear feedback.

Literacy Support

Students in Grade 1 and 2 who need additional reading support participate in the MiniLit program. Students in Grade 3 and above participate in the MacqLit program.

These evidence-based programs run in small groups four times per week in our Small Group Learning rooms. Lessons focus on key reading and spelling skills, including:

• Hearing and identifying sounds in words.
• Matching letters and sounds.
• Reading words accurately.
• Improving spelling.
• Reading more smoothly.
• Understanding what they read.

Lessons follow a clear, step-by-step structure, allowing students to practise skills and receive immediate feedback.

Numeracy Support

Students who require extra support in mathematics participate in the Bond Blocks Maths Program, a hands-on program that strengthens students’ understanding of number. We also use selected Department of Education lesson plans and teaching approaches informed by the research of Brian Poncy, which emphasises explicit instruction, frequent practice, and building automatic recall of key number facts.

These approaches help students:

• Learn and recall important number facts.
• Strengthen addition and subtraction skills.
• Understand how numbers work together.
• Build confidence in solving problems.

Outcomes for Students

At Kangaroo Flat Primary School, we use evidence-based programs that support students to close learning gaps. Our school data and student outcomes show that with structured teaching, regular practice, and targeted support, many students make strong progress and build the skills and confidence needed to succeed in their classroom learning.