Apart from learning all our curriculum in te reo, at year 5, Rūmaki, English is formally introduced into the learning. 

 

We learn this using the Structured Literacy program from the Ideal Learning Approach.  This program is how Auraki/mainstream teach language.  

​

The consideration is students who leave at year 6 have a better idea of how to use the English language as it is mostly their first language.  Of course, staying for year 7 and 8 adds that extra learning and students could possibly leave Rotorua Primary bi-lingual academically.  The program has been adapted for our level and we begin with spelling, reading and writing words and sentences.  The program is leveled in stages using a variety of concepts.