School-Westall+Primary+School

After discussion amongst the Leadership Team, we have decided on a number of strategies to establish, and then ensure sustainability of literacy coaching in our school. My focus will be in the Prep-2 area as "literacy support" (a term we feel is much more acceptable for building relational trust with other staff members) with the aim of improving literacy teaching capacity. I will also be working in an 'advisory' capacity as a 'go to' literacy support person for all other staff members.

The challenge is to develop and increase the learning culture within the school - staff and students alike, I have already begun to 'spread the word' via timetabled (and very non-threatening) professional learning sessions with Grade level teams, individuals; and whole staff professional learning at scheduled Literacy PL meetings.

So far, the feeling is very positive. Will keep you posted on the ups and downs of the whole process!

Cheers, Sue Palmer

Hi all, Following is a Powerpoint Presentation I made and delivered at a professional learning session in order to assist staff with taking and analysing Running Records with their students. Please feel free to use it and/or adapt it for your needs. I hope it's helpful. The notes which accompany it are specific to my school setting, so you may need to toss these out. The rest - belongs to Marie Clay (whom I have referenced). Happy ticking! Cheers, Sue Palmer

Oops, I forgot to also upload a document I cut and pasted from VELS Writing Progression Points. After a P.L session with the whole staff re moderating writing, it was agreed that we needed a document which 'had it all', rather than flicking pages or scrolling to find standard descriptors, progression dot points and examples of writing. So...... here it is, all together. We printed and laminated the pages, and have it displayed in the staffroom across a wall for easy reference. Hope it's useful. Cheers, Sue Palmer

Following a 'Then and Now' reflection. I love Cathy Toll!