Structured literacy is set to revolutionise the way children in New Zealand learn to read, with Education Minister Erica Stanford heralding it as a game-changer for improving academic performance and fostering future success.

“Reading and writing are essential life skills, yet many of our young people are falling behind. Recent data paints a concerning picture, with only 56% of Year 8 students meeting the expected reading level, and a mere 35% for writing,” Ms Stanford emphasises.

Drawing from both domestic and international evidence, the Minister asserts that structured literacy is the most effective method for equipping children with robust reading skills vital for their educational journey and beyond.

Ms Stanford highlights the success stories from several schools in New Zealand already implementing structured literacy, noting significant enhancements in student achievement.

Her ambition is to extend this opportunity to all children across the country.

Beginning in Term 1 of 2025, all state schools will adopt the proven structured literacy approach to teaching reading, signalling a pivotal shift in educational strategy.

“Structured literacy emphasises foundational skills, teaching children to read by decoding sounds and phonics,” Ms Stanford explains, outlining the fundamental principles of the approach.

In alignment with the government's ambitious target of achieving an 80% proficiency rate among Year 8 students by 2030, structured literacy emerges as a cornerstone of their strategy.

The rollout is backed by a substantial $67 million commitment under Budget 2024, aimed at providing comprehensive support:

• Professional development opportunities for teachers to familiarise themselves with structured literacy.
• Provision of books and resources essential for implementing the approach in schools.
• Introduction of phonics checks to monitor student progress.
• Additional support for students requiring extra assistance.

Ms Stanford underscores the symbiotic relationship between structured literacy and the government's mandate for schools to dedicate an hour daily to reading, writing, and mathematics.

She stresses the importance of a curriculum that offers a robust framework for student learning progression.

The funding announcement ensures that teachers receive the requisite training, support, and resources to effectively deliver structured literacy programmes.

“Our teachers play a crucial role, and it's imperative that we equip them adequately to drive improvements in reading and writing outcomes,” Ms Stanford affirms, expressing confidence in the transformative impact of structured literacy on the educational landscape.