Learning Support
There are several staff involved in learning support across the school.
If you are concerned about your child or feel they need more support, please contact their Kaitiaki, or email the leader of learning support, Michelle Hemmingsen, HN@riccarton.school.nz, or call us on 348 5073 extension 844.
Learning Assistants
Our learning assistants support students and classes across the school – Tania Cameron, Nichole Grey, Tessa Morrow, Carlin McClay & Georgia Wilkinson in mainstream classes; with Louise Johnson, Julian Smith, Sharon Bowles, Dianne Payne & Kiera Deehan-Scott in Te Koroī; with Kai Huang, Seth Tio, Mali Tamadon-Yazdian, Bushra Hassan, Kesete Habtom-Weldemariam working in the ESOL and EAL department.
Student Learning Support
Any students who need support with difficult subjects or topics, who need to catch up on work missed through absence, or who need support with assessment tasks, should first discuss their concerns with their subject teacher or Kaitiaki.
Students who need more specific support for their learning could also see Michelle Hemmingsen, or email her, or call into Pakiaka – Learning Support to see one of the staff in Kahikatea.
Computer and study rooms are available in the library after school until 4:00 pm.
To access tutorials students need to ask their subject teacher who will provide support and assistance where available.
What Support is Available?
9 Literacy programme and support
10 Literacy programme and support
Mathematics support
ESOL programmes and support
Gifted and talented programmes and support
Alternative courses and programmes
Timetabled tutorial support
Learning tutor support (in class and individual)
Transition support
Any students who are seeking support with assessments and examinations should contact Pakiaka – Learning Support to determine their eligibility for Special Assessment Conditions (SAC). Students will be screened for SAC support during the year. If applicable, it is helpful, but not necessary, to have an up-to-date (within 3 years) diagnostic assessment/report to support their NZQA SAC application.
Applications are completed by Pakiaka – Learning Support. If you wish to start this process for your child or to discuss this process, please contact Georgia Wilkinson (georgiaw@riccarton.school.nz) or Michelle Hemmingsen (HN@riccarton.school.nz).
Information has been given to teachers for all current SAC students, and Michelle and Georgia meet with senior SAC students regularly prior to examination periods.
Volunteers
We would welcome any volunteers who are able to support students needing Special Assessment Conditions by acting as readers/writers or supervisors during assessments.
No experience is needed, and any training will be given. Depending on the student’s needs, you may help them with reading or writing, or just be in the room supervising.
These can occur at any time during the school day, or any day of the week and take just an hour or two of your time.
Please email Michelle or Georgia or call them on 348 5073 ext.844 if you would like to volunteer or find out more – we would appreciate your help.
Michelle Hemmingsen
Leader of Learning – Learning Support
Learning Support Co-ordinator
