Accelerating Learning in Literacy
Enhancing literacy through evidence-based, culturally responsive teaching methods.
Many ākonga readily acquire the necessary skills for learning to read and write, while some do not. It is imperative that learners are equipped with the tools they need through an approach that enriches teacher knowledge and practice. This approach should be firmly rooted in the principles and evidence-based methods of the science of learning.
Unlock literacy success for Years 3–10
Struggling readers and writers don’t have to stay behind. Our Accelerating Learning in Literacy (ALL) approach empowers schools to lead with confidence, supported by expert mentors. Together, we identify students needing extra help, share proven teaching strategies, and make impactful changes across classrooms.
This isn’t just another programme—it’s about elevating teaching practice. With time, tools, and scientific backing, teachers can deliver strategies that work. The result? Confident educators. Thriving students. School-wide progress.
At the heart of our approach is Dr Melanie Couch’s Niho Taniwha framework—a proven catalyst for rapid learning gains. This culturally responsive kaupapa strengthens collaboration between ākonga, whānau, teachers, and schools, creating a united drive to accelerate literacy outcomes.
Rooted in Te Tiriti o Waitangi, Niho Taniwha values and integrates the unique backgrounds each ākonga brings to their learning journey. It’s a practical, powerful framework that respects diversity and fosters success.
Why engage in Accelerating Learning through a structured approach?
Smart assessments for faster learning
We start with smart assessments to avoid reteaching what students already know. This early, comprehensive evaluation lets us quickly move to the next stage of their learning journey.Systematic literacy instruction
Our structured approach builds strong foundational literacy skills. Every element—from phonological awareness to fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension—is explicitly taught, leaving nothing to chance. We empower kaiako to dive into the alphabetic principle, focusing on the direct link between letters and sounds, including tricky spelling patterns.The Accelerated Learning Framework
Inspired by Suzy Pepper Rollins, our framework reignites student self-belief and delivers real success. This evidence-based method ensures swift progress and measurable outcomes.High expectations, high impact
Teachers’ belief in their students’ potential drives success. We support kaiako to become "high expectation teachers" who inspire faster learning and higher achievement. With practical strategies, we help cultivate positive mindsets and effective teaching methods that empower every learner to excel.
How we work with you
Raising achievement and reducing disparity is at the heart our work. Advancing literacy skills is fundamental for academic success among all students. We provide comprehensive support to educational leaders, teachers, and ākonga to achieve this goal effectively:
Utilising assessment data to identify students in need of accelerated learning.
Supporting teachers to teach using a structured approach to literacy
Implementing evidence-based practices that are proven to engage and accelerate learning.
Adopting a strengths-based approach powered by Niho Taniwha - your facilitators support you and your team through a kaupapa Māori professional learning process.
Demonstrating effective teaching methods through in-class modelling and collaborative teaching.
Offering online video coaching and feedback sessions to enhance professional development for leaders and teachers.
How to access this support
We are currently contracted to deliver this support to Tai Tokerau, Waikato, Bay of Plenty and Wellington through the Ministry of Education Programmes for Students initiative.
If you want to know more about how to register for this support, read about it here.
If you are intersted in seeking this support in other regions, we can work with you.
