Learning & Teaching
Leader: Erin Emmett
Learning & Teaching
Leader: Erin Emmett
At St Patrick’s School Tongala, we are dedicated to ensuring every student becomes a confident and successful reader. As part of the Magnify Sandhurst initiative, we are proud to implement MiniLit Sage and MacqLit—evidence-based literacy intervention programs designed to provide targeted support for students who need extra help in developing their reading skills.
MiniLit Sage is designed for students in Years 1 and 2 who require additional support in learning the essential components of reading. It provides structured, explicit instruction in phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary and comprehension. Delivered in small groups by trained staff, MiniLit Sage helps young learners build strong reading foundations that are critical for long-term success.
For students in Years 3 and above, MacqLit offers a similar structure, catering to older students who are reading below the expected level. It focuses on phonics, decoding, fluency and comprehension, supporting students to catch up and keep up with their peers. Like MiniLit Sage, MacqLit is delivered in small groups, with regular assessment used to monitor progress and adjust teaching as needed.
These programs are key components of Magnify Sandhurst, a system-wide approach to improving literacy outcomes across the Diocese of Sandhurst. Through this initiative, we are supported with professional learning, resources, and system-level expertise to strengthen literacy instruction and intervention in our school.
By embedding MiniLit Sage and MacqLit into St Patrick’s Tongala, we are providing opportunities for students to become successful readers. These targeted programs complement our whole-school approach to literacy, where explicit instruction, ongoing assessment, and data-informed teaching work together to help every student thrive.