Te Whare Taupua is the supported learning faculty that brings together and coordinates a number of school and community services to support and nurture the student with a range of learning needs. A range of opportunities for inclusion are provided for students who receive agency funding and staff plan collaboratively with whanau to ensure the setting and monitoring of individual goals.

Students participate in a range of learning programmes and extra-curricular activities. Wherever possible learning is contextualised so that knowledge is transferred into real life contexts. Schools Services within Te Whare Taupua consist of Kia Manawanui, Rongomaiwhiti, Te Hāpai Reo, Alternative Education and Learning Support Coordinator.

Kia Manawanui

– provides a homeroom for junior (year 9-10) and senior students (year 11-13). Our junior classroom provides authentic learning experiences with a heavy focus on Literacy and Numeracy whilst building key competencies to prepare students for life beyond the classroom.

Students remain in their classroom for literacy, numeracy and inquiry and have two option classes per term. They move as a class to their option classes with the Teacher Aides so that they feel secure in less familiar environments. Entry is needs based and numbers are limited.

We encourage whanau and schools to notify the Learning Support Coordinator early to secure a spot. The senior classroom provides a supportive environment with opportunity for gaining employ-ability skills and experiences with a strong emphasis on achieving Supported Learning Unit Standards Level 1.

Areas of learning are based on experiences in the wider community. We work alongside agencies such as Learning Support, Resource Teachers of the Deaf/Vision/Learning and Behaviour to ensure we are kept up to date with support programmes, resources, communication ideas and assistive technologies. We also have a high student teacher ratio so that student’s individual needs are supported.

The ideal profile for Kia Manawanui students leaving LHS: NCEA Level 1 Literacy and Numeracy Work Experience Work Exploration Car Learners Licence An up to date CV Certificate in Licence to Work EIT Primary Trades (Yr 12) Employability Skills Certificates in School Based Courses – Red Shirts, First Aid, Forklift licences, Barista training…

Te Whare Rongomaiwhiti

– represents peace, aroha and ako. Like the sacredness and uniqueness of all mokopuna, the akonga in Rongomaiwhiti are looked after, nurtured and cared for in a peaceful manner to enable them to reach their full potential. Each student is welcomed and supported with both a transition and an individual learning pathway plan.

Our team adapts to the student’s ways of learning and offers experiences tailored specifically to them. We offer a full multisensory programme, physiotherapy, life skills and community skills. We also have a high adult/student ratio and AAC (Augmentative Alternative Communication), giving everyone an opportunity to have his or her own voice. The unit is equipped with a range of specialist equipment, a sophisticated hoist system and many other tools and resources to ignite and stimulate learning.

We also work closely alongside specialists from a range of agencies to ensure we offer up to date support programmes, communication and assistive technologies.

Te Hāpai Reo

– is a structured literacy programme that aims to accelerate students’ learning by two years. It is managed by a specialist Literacy teacher and also involves volunteers from Turanganui-a-kiwa. Any student who is having difficulties with reading, spelling or writing is given tailored one to one assistance.

We use decodable reading books, focus on sounds, use “The Code” spelling programme and games. We promote success and enjoyment of literacy which is evident when we have reluctant readers asking if they can come to reading. This programme is available from year 9 and can continue to support students throughout their learning journey Alternative Education – Lytton High School manages Alternative Education in Gisborne.

Students can be referred to one of four alternative education settings, where the student will continue to receive educational services according to his or her Individual Education Program (IEP). It re-engages students in a meaningful learning programme targeted to their individual needs which may support them back to class. Learning Support Coordinator – The Learning Support Coordinator ensures that young people with a disability and/or additional learning needs have access to the services they need whilst at Lytton High School.

This involves liaising with whanau and outside agencies to ensure best outcomes for students. The LSC works with intermediates, MOE and RTLB to coordinate transition to high school, facilitates IEPs, and completes applications for Special Assessment Conditions, In Class Support, Assistive Technology, Alternative Programmes, MOE and RTLB funding. They ensure that the staff who support these students build their capacity by seeking opportunities of Professional Development.