Middle Years Literacy and Numeracy Support at Ballarat High School

The Middle Years Literacy and Numeracy Support (MYLNS) initiative is a Department of Education program introduced with the aim to improve Literacy and Numeracy outcomes for selected students. It was developed as a result of the clear correlation between solid literacy and numeracy skills and career opportunities. 

In 2019 the target group were year 10 students, however that has expanded this year to include year 8 students also. Students who are eligible are those who have tested below the national minimum standard for either reading, or numeracy; or in some cases both. NAPLAN test results, or an equivalent test alongside teacher recommendation is the measure by which students are identified. 

Literacy and numeracy support takes the form of the MYLNS teacher leading small group intensive work outside of the usual classroom, supporting the classroom teacher in class, or a combination of the two approaches. The key to the success of the initiative is being able to work closely with classroom teachers to support the outcomes of each students while still linking the tasks to the topics being focused on in class.

While this is a great opportunity for us as a school to further develop the literacy and numeracy skills in students who have missed key steps along the way, this is always complemented by literacy and numeracy activities that parents or care-givers engage in with their teenagers at home. Having your child read to you out-loud, or reading with them then discussing what it is you have just read, is really beneficial. Posing real-world numeracy questions and working through them together are also invaluable. If you have questions regarding this initiative, please contact your child’s Team Leader and they will forward your question to the appropriate person.